All-new hatchback also shows off strong new design and Renaultsport-inspired 'GT' spec
Full details of the all-new Renault Megane family hatchback have emerged in the wake of the car's public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show. When it goes on sale in early 2016, the mid-sized hatchback will be up against rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, SEAT Leon and new Vauxhall Astra.
Design-wise, the new Megane has adopted a much bolder look than before, while it’ll feature more efficient engines and have a greater focus on technology. The GT model will have a 205bhp petrol engine and four-wheel steering, while there are also plans for a diesel hybrid in 2017.
It's based on the same mechanical platform as the Nissan Qashqai and Renault Kadjar crossovers and the Nissan Pulsar hatchback.
New Renault Megane styling
The new Megane is boldly styled, with the familiar large Renault diamond logo dominating the grille. There are also styling cues from high-performance Renaults like the Clio RS hot hatchback, such as the low front bumper and chrome details around the windows.
Like the Renault Talisman – a family saloon that’ll be sold on the continent, but not in the UK – the Megane features C-shaped daytime running lights around the headlights.
At the rear, there are LED clusters that cut almost all the way across the back of the car, only interrupted by the Renault badge on the tailgate. According to Renault, this increases the perceived width of the car.
This generation of Megane is bigger than its predecessor, too. It's 65mm longer and the wheelbase (the distance between the front and rear wheels) has been increased by 28mm, which should result in a considerable increase in interior space. It's also wider, which should improve cornering stability and interior shoulder room.
The range-topping GT model will be available from launch. It features larger front air intakes and a black mesh grille at the front, rather than the standard chrome one. Other styling additions include trapezoidal exhaust pipes integrated with the rear bumper and unique 18-inch alloy wheels. Completing the sporty look is a rear roof spoiler.
Interior, specs, safety and technology
Renault has simplified the dashboard layout of the new Megane by fitting a large portrait-orientated central touchscreen (like those in the Volvo XC90 and Tesla Model S), which the company claims this is a class first. It controls the R-LINK 2 infotainment system, working in the same way as an iPad or other tablet with pinch-and-zoom functionality for the sat-nav maps.
One of the key facets of the new Megane is a greater focus on technology and quality. Gone are the traditional instrument dials, replaced by a TFT screen, while you’ll also be able to specify a head-up display. Renault will offer a BOSE stereo, as well as adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, traffic-sign recognition, automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. High-spec versions of the will be available with a Napa leather-trimmed steering wheel and chrome detailing around the cabin.
The top-of-the range GT model has Alcantara sports seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, sports pedals and a ‘Race Mode’ for the digital instrument cluster. Depending on what exterior paint colour you choose, you’ll also be able to add blue or black inserts in the interior.
In terms of safety, the Megane should be on par with its rivals, too. Euro NCAP has awarded it the full five stars - in line with the majority of its rivals - and it comes with plenty of safety kit as standard. As well as the obligatory traction and stability control systems, it gets a plethora of airbags, ISOFIX child car seat mounting points in the rear and seatbelt reminders for all occupants.
Engines and performance
Six engines – three diesels and three petrols – will be available at launch, with a seventh (also a diesel) arriving in 2016. The three diesels produce 90, 110 and 130bhp, with the 110bhp version likely to be the biggest seller. Renault says this version will emit 86g/km of CO2, making it tax free and very tempting as a company car.
The three petrols produce 100, 130 and 205bhp, with the latter being exclusive to the GT model, which also gets a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and Renault's 4Control four-wheel steering system. The company claims this ensures “precise, dynamic handling on twisty roads, with total stability at higher speeds” and that “in emergencies, [it] provides reassuring, lightning-fast responses.”
As well as these systems, the GT has launch-control and a function that allows the dual-clutch gearbox to change down several gears at once.
It's likely that 2017 will see the introduction of a ‘Hybrid Assist’ diesel version. There's no official numbers available for this system, but Renault is said to be targeting 94mpg and 76g/km of CO2.
A high-performance Renaultsport version hasn’t been confirmed, but is likely to make an appearance in due course to take on rivals such as the Ford Focus ST, Vauxhall Astra VXR and Honda Civic Type R.
Price and release date
The new Megane will go on sale in the UK in summer 2016, a few months after it launches in continental Europe. No prices have been revealed just yet, but going by the previous generation, it should start at under £18,000.
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