Used Renault Megane CC 2002 - 2009 review

What's the used Renault Megane like?

The Renault Megane CC uses the electrically folding metal roof concept made famous by the Mercedes Benz SLK, and is far more civilised than the old soft-top Megane convertible.

The Megane is a four-seater, but if the driver and front-seat passenger are six-footers, there's not much room in the back. Likewise, with the roof down, the boot is only big enough for a few small bags.

Overview

The Renault Megane CC looks great, but it's no sports car. And, it's impractical, too

Pros

• It's a comfortable, stylish cruiser

Cons

• It's not terribly exciting to drive and the boot is small

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Don't think of this Renault Megane as a sports coupe that can change into a sports convertible at the press of a button, though. The Megane CC is a cruiser, with the emphasis on comfort rather than excitement.

Try to hustle it down twisty country roads and you'll be disappointed. There's a fair amount of body lean through corners, and when the roof's down, bad road surfaces cause the whole car to shudder.

Our recommendations

Which used Renault Megane should I buy?

The CC got more engines than its predecessor - including diesels for the first time. There was a mild face-lift in 2006, which improved the engines and added some cosmetic tweaks.

The entry 1.6 petrol is too small, but the 2.0-litre petrol, or 1.9-litre diesel with either 106bhp or 130bhp, are much better. If you want to really move, the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit is good. However the 2.0-litre 150bhp diesel option is probably the best all-round choice, if you can stretch to it.

There is a four-speed auto option on the 130bhp diesel, but it's expensive and noticeably dents fuel economy. The more powerful engines come with a six-speed manual gearbox, but the five-speed 'box on lesser models is more satisfying to use.

Base Extreme models miss out on air-con, so we'd look out Dynamique models. Top-spec Privilege comes with climate control, CD changer and part-leather interior.

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