Renault Mégane coupé test

Renault Megane Coupé
After the aesthetic success of the Laguna Coupé, Renault now presents the new Mégane.





And the timing is right when one knows the primary purchase criteria in this segment is design and the French carmaker is proud because it is as important as safety and road handling.

This Mégane is a lot more attractive than its predecessor…and another strong point, is that it really feels and acts like a saloon. Renault thinks this car will have what it takes to compete with the Volkswagen Scirocco.



What does make it stand apart from a saloon are the front air intakes the rear flat areas and the fact that it has been lowered. In the next 15 months six different bodyworks will be introduced, including a convertible, estate and family mini-van versions.

The Mégane is responsible for 1/3 of Renault sales and the French constructor is hoping to overtake the Peugeot 308 and Citroen C4 in terms of sales in France.

A bodywork kit also exists on option that allows for personalising the one’s car. Personalising is quite trendy these days, no longer do you have to have a big engine under the bonnet to create a sporty allure. Both the saloon and coupe can be had with spoilers, fins and air diffusers for an add on charge.

Renault has progressed by leaps and bound when it comes to the interior. Here it is both ergonomic and well thought out. The materials chosen are quality as is the assembly. The seats are comfortable as is the driving position. There are even two GPS systems to choose from. As for safety, there are no less than eight airbags. The Mégane can also be had with options worthy of a higher end vehicle, like an assisted parking brake or the personalised menu of the car first seen on the Laguna.

So far there’s no criticism to be made of the Mégane Coupé…but once you start driving you can’t help but notice a few soundproofing issues. The passenger window joints allow air to whistle in and any little rock that works its way into the tyres or wheel arch can certainly be heard. This is a pity because the car is easy to drive and safe. The Mégane has gained a bit of character thanks to a new steering system. The road handling is as good as before with just a slightly stiffer suspension. It drives firm but is comfortable. Despite a little too present turbo effect, the two litre turbo motor has performance and decent fuel consumption.

The new Renault Mégane Coupé is a sound and safe automobile and at Maxi test we can’t wait to see what the Renault Sport version delivers.