Renault Scenic E-Tech

Renault Clio

Renault Megane E-Tech

2-renault-megane-r26r

Hatchbacks, SUVs, hybrids, electric cars: Renault makes them all, in a variety of shapes and sizes, meaning&nbsp;it has a line-up designed to tempt pretty much everyone.

From the roadside, the standout feature of all its cars is design, with them instantly recognisable as members of the Renault family, without being so similar that they fall&nbsp;into the Russian doll trap. However, in terms of ability they're a mixed bag,&nbsp;ranging&nbsp;from very good to no better than average.

Models that fall into the former camp include the Clio small hatchback and Megane E-Tech electric car, while the smaller Zoe electric car is also impressive in most respects; it's just a pity Renault omits key safety kit.

On the other hand, the Captur, Arkana and Austral SUVs are all outclassed by several rivals.

Renault has some exciting new models planned, including a new Scenic (this time it will be an electric SUV instead of a conventionally powered MPV) and two cars that reimagine classic Renaults: the 4 and 5.

RENAULT

MEGANE

Now here's a car that's so racy it needs two Rs in its name.Hot in the footsteps of the R26, the new R26.R uses the same 227bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, but it's an entirely different prospect.It's lighter for a start, with weight cut by more than 120kg, thanks to polycarbonate windows and a carbonfibre bonnet. The rear bench has also been ripped out, leaving just a pair of bucket seats up front.

The 0-60mph time is consequently reduced from 6.5sec to 6.0sec, almost as fast as the Focus RS, and the suspension and steering are both tweaked for added bite. Despite this, it manages 33.2mpg, while emissions are 199g/km of CO2.The base car costs 22,900, but youll have to move fast to get one - just 230 of the 450 examples being built are coming to the UK.When's it due? October 2008 Chances of 'I Spy' success 40/1

Now here's a car that's so racy it needs two Rs in its name.Hot in the footsteps of the R26, the new R26.R uses the same 227bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, but it's an entirely different prospect.

It's lighter for a start, with weight cut by more than 120kg, thanks to polycarbonate windows and a carbonfibre bonnet. The rear bench has also been ripped out, leaving just a pair of bucket seats up front.The 0-60mph time is consequently reduced from 6.5sec to 6.0sec, almost as fast as the Focus RS, and the suspension and steering are both tweaked for added bite. Despite this, it manages 33.2mpg, while emissions are 199g/km of CO2.The base car costs 22,900, but youll have to move fast to get one - just 230 of the 450 examples being built are coming to the UK.When's it due? October 2008 Chances of 'I Spy' success 40/1

LATEST DEALS:

2. Renault Megane R26.R