A Review of the Renault Megane Hatchback

When it comes to family cars, the Renault Megane Hatchback is one of the most popular, rivalling other brands like the Ford Focus or Volkswagen Golf. As the third generation of Megane, it’s advanced as well, with superior build quality to previous models released by Renault.

Despite the updates to the look, however, it still doesn’t offer the stylish and modern approach that the Ford Focus and SEAT Leon do, and the inside is showing age as well with its dull plastic features and built-in sat-nav that simply feels a bit crude.

All in all, though, this hatchback has plenty for buyers to look forward to. Let’s take a look.

A Look at the Renault Megane Hatchback

• Engine Choices- You can choose from four different engines when purchasing this Renault: 1.2 and 1.4 litre petrol engines and 1.5 and 1.6 litre diesel engines. While each offers brilliant fuel efficiency and speed, you’ll get the most in terms of economy and performance if you choose the 1.2 petrol or 1.6 diesel.

• Running Costs- If you want to lower your operating costs greatly, choose the ECO version of the diesel engine. This model offers 80.7mpg and 90g/km CO2. This means it is exempt from road taxes.

• Value- Unlike the Volkswagen Golf, you shouldn’t expect to get much out of this car if you decide to sell it a few years down the road. It has a very high depreciation, which reduces it value greatly. If you plan on purchasing the Megane, it’s important that you factor this in and are ready to hold onto it for the long term. Performing regular maintenance on Renault parts and ensuring the car operates properly will keep this car working for you for years to come.

• Comfort- The suspension of the Renault demonstrates the true benefit of quality car parts. As you travel down the road, you’ll glide smoothly over any bumps in the road. The only exception for this is the GT model, which has offers a rougher ride in order to achieve more grip and better handling.

• Interior- Sitting comfortably in a Renault Megane is possible, but only if you’re in the driver or front passenger seat. The back seat is cramped, with little leg and head room.

• Boot Space- Looking for a lot of boot space? The Renault offers plenty with 405 litres. While this isn’t as big as some rivals like the Honda Civic, its practical square shape makes it incredibly useful. There is also 33 litres under the boot floor for that spare tyre, and when you fold the back seat downs, the total space grows to 1,162 litres.

• Practicality- When it comes to practicality, the Megane falls incredibly short. The designers seem to have taken very little interest in making the interior usable, with a very small glovebox and only one cup holder for the entire car. To make matters worse, the cup holder is located in front of the stereo, so if you use it, you won’t be able to reach the controls.

• Reliability- In the past, Renault cars haven’t had the best reputation when it comes to reliability and safety, but the Megane changes all that. It is now praised for its high equipment levels, strong performance, and low running costs. It also features a number of safety car parts and items, like plenty of airbags and a Visio System. This system is able to scan ahead of the car at night to determine the conditions around the car. It then adjusts the headlamp power to suit the driver’s needs.

Are you thinking of buying a Renault Megane Hatchback? As a family car, this popular ride offers both benefits and disadvantages. Weigh the pros and cons and determine if this car will be the best choice for your family.