The Renault Megane has come a long way since its first bustle-back rendition. In a nutshell, it’s now (and we know we are using this word much more frequently these days) more refined. The model reviewed here is the middle-of-the-range version, namely the GT-Line Turbo. This uses the same downscaled powertrain of just 1,2 litres, in this guise producing 97 kW (Dynamique and GT models producing 81 kW and 162 kW respectively). The design practise of using smaller engines with forced induction is catching on fast for reasons of efficiency and economy and are mainly well designed to give a blend of frugality with enough power to please everyone.
Interestingly, all models are available in two-door or four-door hatchback versions at the same price. The GT-Line design pack includes special bumpers and door handles, sport pedals and 17-in alloys.
Torque output is 205 N.m from 2 000 to 3 000 r/min with 90% available from 1 500 r/min. An overboost function gives you 225 N.m for up to 20 seconds if you floor it. Unfortunately, this entails moving the accelerator past an area of resistance in the loud pedal. One much improved aspect of engine design is the ditching of cambelts to operate valves, replaced by camchains with no servicing requirements. Variable camshaft timing is adopted with the oil pump being driven at a variable rate according to lubrication demand. F1 technology is claimed to have trickled down to the production engines in the form of graphite coating on piston skirts, all aluminium block and intelligent alternator usage with stop/start as well.
The start card is “keyless go” so can be kept in your pocket which saves time. A Renault feature is auto locking when you walk away from the car – useful if yours hands are full. The only options available are metallic paint and a panoramic sunroof, fixed for the coupè and opening for the sedan. Standard features include the factory fitted Tom Tom sat-nav, Bluetooth/USB/SD/aux ports, six airbags, ISOfix seat mountings and dual-zone climate control. The sat-nav has live services with traffic updates and intuitive search capability for finding locations such as restaurants in the vicinity.
Even at high altitude, a turbo performs well and with 97 kW you have just enough urge to satisfy and get yourself out of trouble or take gaps without holding anyone up. Sixth gear can be maintained most of the time, with just a quick drop down to fifth if you are climbing a hill and need to get back up to 120 km/h more quickly. The gearbox is relatively slick with a short throw but not quite as positive as the stronger box used on the more powerful GT. Of course, it’s all about balance and here the point is power with economy and the quoted figure (in overall laid back driving) is just 5,4 L/100 km. Acceleration to 100 km/h is 9,7 seconds.
On the roads outside of Gauteng, the surfaces are mainly smooth with some hiccups and the general ride quality was well tuned to soak up poor surfaces but still handle well on corners. Coupled to this is a well-insulated cabin that kept road, wind and mechanical noise to a minimum. The seating is a mix of cloth and leather and very well shaped but on the small side, especially the cushion length. A red strip on the facia is matched by red stitching on the leather steering wheel, but seat stitching is in white. Space at the back was adequate but a bit of a squeeze for adults over 1,8 metres tall. The boot looks large enough for most and under the boot board lies a not-quite full-size steel spare, meaning that it can handle speed and load but is not a replacement for the 205/55 R17 ContiSportContacts.
To give owners peace of mind, Renault is offering a five-year/150 000 km warranty with a five-year/90 000 km service plan.
