Item: Used Renault Megane Hatchback 2002 - 2009
Rating: 3
Author: What Car? Team

What is it like?

Ownership cost

Advice for buyers

Our recommendations

Alternatives

Hatchback

Hatchbacks, SUVs, fast cars, electric cars: Renault makes them all, in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it has a line-up designed to tempt pretty much everyone.

From the roadside, the standout feature of them all is the design, with its cars now having a distinctive look that has won the firm a legion of fans for its flair and charm.

To drive and to own, the line-up is typically decent rather than outstanding. Best of the cars when they are rated against rivals are the Kadjar SUV, the fast RS models and the electric Zoe.

With new and used pricing also keen – and Target Price discounts through our New Car Buying marketplace usually more generous than most – there is the opportunity to negotiate an appealing price.

RENAULT

MEGANE

The Renault Megane is outstandingly safe, well equipped and good-looking, but plagued by niggling faults

Used Renault Megane Hatchback 2002 - 2009

Fuel bills aren't steep. All diesels return more than 50mpg on the official combined cycle, and the 80 and 106bhp 1.5 diesels bump that up to more than 60mpg. The 1.4 and 1.6 petrols manage more than 40mpg, and even the Renaultsports return over 30mpg.

On the other hand, servicing is dearer than for a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/vauxhall/astra/hatchback/review/n17347">Vauxhall Astra</a> or <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/focus/hatchback/review/n37">Ford Focus</a>. But, going outside the Renault franchised network could shave about a quarter off the labour bill.

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The Renault Megane is outstandingly safe, well equipped and good-looking, but plagued by niggling faults

There's more space for rear passengers in the saloon, but this five-door has extra versatility, so which you'll prefer depends on how you intend to use it. On balance, we'd opt for this five-door, and just put up with the tight rear legroom.

Once you've chosen the body style, the good news is that there are no bad models in the line-up, from the frugal 1.4 to the scorching 222bhp Renaultsport 2.0 turbo cars.

We most like the 1.6 (the most sensible petrol choice) and 1.5 turbodiesel for their relaxed driving style, and the 2.0 petrols have plenty of punch.

But, the dearer 1.9 diesels have the edge for all-round ability, especially if you do a lot of motorway driving. Given the cash, that's where we'd spend it.

Expression trim offers the best value, but all come with at least eight airbags, anti-lock brakes and a generous array of goodies. Extreme and Authentique are the entry-level models, while Privilege is the top spec.

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<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Plenty of practical space </li> <li>Low running costs </li> <li>A comfortable ride </li> <li>A healthy equipment list </li> <li>Quality materials and thoughtful touches inside </li> <li>Rock-solid reliability</li></ul>

Family cars arguably have the toughest brief of all: they have to be good at pretty much everything. They’re used as the daily drive, on the school run or work commute (often both), and have to be able to cope with a family’s clutter on weekends and holidays.

The Skoda Scala is a relative newcomer, but it's&nbsp;already carved out a name for itself in this segment.&nbsp;If you're looking for a moderately priced car that combines a supple ride, neat handling, a spacious interior and a capacious boot&nbsp;it's well worth a look.&nbsp;Alternatively, if you're looking for entertaining handling then the&nbsp;BMW 1 Series may well be for you. It's great to drive, rides well&nbsp;and also comes with a top-notch interior, featuring one of our very favourite infotainment systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Toyota Corolla&nbsp;is another great choice. This latest version of one of the world's best-selling cars of all time can be had with a choice of two different petrol-electric hybrid engines, both of which should mean&nbsp;potentially lower fuel bills. It's comfortable, well equipped and should be very reliable, too.&nbsp;

Family

Renault has taken great strides in improving problem areas, but it still languishes in the bottom half of our reliability survey. The Megane only just keeps its head above the tail-enders in the JD Power customer satisfaction survey, too.

Electrical faults are the most common bugbear, and they aren't always easily fixed by Renault dealers, much to the frustration of some owners.

So that's where you should pay the most attention. Electric windows can fail, and problems can strike the indicator and wiper stalks. Faults have also been reported on cars fitted with the keyless ignition and door entry system.

Squealing brakes - a common problem - can usually be cured by changing the original pads for a later compound. However, sluggish, erratic engine response or starting problems can prove more expensive and time-consuming to fix. Also, listen out for squeaks and rattles in the cabin, and check for leaks (although they are rare).

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The Renault Megane takes bumps and potholes with a comfortable spring in its step. That traditionally French soft ride quality means there's a degree of lean through corners, but it isn't at all unpleasant, and there's plenty of grip. It's just a shame the electric power steering lacks feel.

All of the engines are willing and fuel-efficient, although the 1.6 petrol and 1.5 turbodiesel can become a bit noisy on the motorway.

The high-set driving position has a good range of adjustment, and there's no shortage of high-quality materials and good design in the cabin.

You'll struggle to get so much safety and luxury kit for the money elsewhere, and perhaps the only major complaint is that the hatchback's boot could be bigger.

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Used Renault Megane Hatchback 2002 - 2009 review

Every 2021 Electric and Hybrid Car Awards winner

Advice for buyers

What should I look for in a used Renault Megane hatchback?