SOME things are just better the second time round. Less is more. Handsome is as handsome does. More than a few of the English language’s enduring feel-good clichés spring to mind when a smartly revised product comes under CAR’s road test scrutiny, especially one as handsome and comfortable as the Renault Mégane Coupé.
Prior to the recent introduction of a revised “Mégane 2012 Collection”, the 1,6-litre derivative in the range’s three-door line-up was offered with Distinctive specification for R239 000. The package included automatic headlight activation, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather steering wheel and heated, electric folding door mirrors, but those nice-to-haves have been omitted from the new Expression model, which undercuts its predecessor by R30 000.
Visually, you’d be hard-pressed to notice the changes between this model and the pre-2012 version. There are minor modifications to the lights and bumpers and, even though our test vehicle was finished in a less-than-arresting refrigerator white, the test unit struck an elegant pose.
Inside, the capacious cabin is trimmed in dark charcoal upholstery, with satin chrome finishes for the (digital) instrumentation cowls and almost the entire dashboard consists of soft-touch plastic – a good first impression.
Would buyers feel short-changed with the standard-features list of the repositioned Expression model, however? Not at this price level, we contend. Stock specification includes a height-adjustable driver’s seat, manual air-conditioning and an MP3-compatible radio/CD audio system that offers Bluetooth connectivity as well as auxiliary and USB sockets. Over and above those items, steering wheel-activated cruise control, a tinted sunroof and one-touch function for the driver’s side electric window are specified.
As is the case with all Renault Mégane Coupé models, the slinky looks hide quite a spacious cabin and the luggage area is of a decent size; it is able to accommodate up to 880 dm3 when the rear seats are folded down. The Expression has very supportive seats and the ride comfort is undoubtedly aided by the plump 205/66 R16 tyres.
The test unit’s 1,6-litre engine, which produces a so-so 83 kW and 151 N.m of torque, did feel a tad lethargic in cut-and-thrust traffic conditions and that might be exacerbated at the Reef. During in-gear acceleration testing, the 1,6 Expression took 10,34 seconds to reach 120 from 80 km/h. The driver will have to churn that six-speed gearbox often when rushed and our fuel route figure of 8,3 litres/100 km suggests that fuel efficiency is middling, too.
But to consider this model as a driver’s car would be to miss the point. It is aimed at those looking for a stylish and comfortable car that offers good safety features. On that score, the Renault offers dual front, side, curtain and anti-submarining airbags, and Isofix mountings at the rear. ABS with EBA and EBD is standard, but there is unfortunately no electronic stability programme in the package.
Test Summary
There aren’t many new passenger vehicles that can offer a matching combination of looks and practicality at this price level, never mind a five-year/150 000 km warranty and five-year/100 000 km service plan.
This Mégane may not dish up over-generous servings of glamour or performance, but it’s an otherwise comfortable and satisfying source of everyday transport. Most importantly, it really seems like a solid long-term ownership proposition.
