The Renault Megane range has been updated with new style, modified equipment and pricing tweaks, plus three new efficient engines.
The smallest is a 1.2-litre 113bhp turbocharged four-cylinder petrol called the TCe 115. It features a stop-start system and a number of engine improvements, such as direct fuel injection – all of which helps it to return 53.3mpg and emit 119g/km of CO2. They were better than the equivalent figures for the less powerful 1.2-litre turbo VW Golf.
This engine replaces the 108bhp 1.6-litre and produces five more horsepower and 39Nm more torque than its predecessor, for a total of 190Nm. It also delivers its peak torque lower down in the rev range, which is making it more flexible for everyday urban drivings. Plus, the 1.2-litre improves emissions and fuel economy by 25% over the 1.6-litres.
The older engine will still be sold for the foreseeable future in entry-level Expression+ trim, however, as the more efficient 1.2-litre comes at a premium. It’s available in hatchback, Coupe and Sport Tourer body styles, but is exclusive to the higher-spec Dynamique and GT-Line models. It’s priced from £18,325 in Dynamique spec, which is £1,050 more than with the 1.6-litre, and it’s the only petrol engine available in the GT-Line, priced from £19,825.
On the road, the 1.2-litre with a six-speed manual box is more impressive. It offers good refinement, and the additional torque means it rarely struggles to make progress. The trade-off is that there’s no sporty exhaust note, yet the Megane’s well sorted chassis can still bring a smile to your face on a winding road.
GT-Line has stiffer suspension than lower-spec models, so its handling is even more accomplished, although the steering could do with more feel. Even this version’s 17-inch alloys don’t spoil the comfortable ride, although you can feel slight surface changes on the motorway, making it a bit taxing on long-distance runs.
Outside, the GT-Line Megane has LED daytime running lights low down in the front bumper, as well as body-coloured side mouldings and door handles. There are two new exterior and six new interior trim colours. GT-Line is also equipped with hill-start assist and parking assist with rear-view camera, while all Meganes now get Bluetooth phone connectivity, gloss-black bumper highlights and new alloy wheel designs as standard.
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