The Renault Megane is a really popular family hatchback that was first introduced for the 1995 model year. Ever since then, the Megane has continuously managed to top the sales chart in its segment as Europeans really love a mid-size family hatch. The Megane RS is available in numerous trim levels with all kinds of engines, ranging from small to Megane RS Trophy performance variants.
So, is Renault Megane a good car? Well, yes, it sure is. No one can deny that the Megane is not a good car as its sales are the only answer you need. However, some may not prefer the Megane due to it being not overly luxurious. Even so, for the price you are paying, you are really getting your money’s worth with the Renault Megane.
The Megane has been around for a better part of 30 years now which means that there is plenty of choices to be had with it. You can choose between several engines, transmissions, body styles, equipment levels, and pricing groups. Used Megane models are really attractive, especially those made after 2016.
All in all, the Megane is a really good car for those who are interested in buying a relatively affordable mid-size European hatchback that does not break the bank. If you maintain it well enough, it is going to last a really long time.
Read about some issues you might get with a Renault Megane.
The Powertrain
The Renault Megane mostly relies on 4-cylinder engines, but you can also find a few 3-cylinder engines as well. The 1.2L 4-cylinder is the golden standard of the previous generation gasoline Megane as it offers 100-132hp while also being the most economical of the bunch. The 1.4L gasoline 4-cylinder pushes out 140-160hp while the top-spec Megane RS models come with a 1.8L 4-cylinder with up to 300hp.
The very latest Megane models come with two gasoline engines, a smaller 1.0L 3-cylinder with 114hp or a larger 1.4L 4-cylinder engine with up to 160hp. There are also a few diesel engines to go for such as the 1.5L with 110hp, the 1.6L with 160hp, or the newer 1.5L 4-cylinder with up to 116hp which is also the most economical one of the bunch.
All Megane models are front-wheel-drive, but you can choose between a manual and an automatic gearbox depending on what you want more. All in all, diesel engines can reach up to 60MPG while smaller gasoline engines can do up to 40-45MPG which is also a really good number.
Design and Driving Experience
On the outside, the Megane looks really attractive, especially the newest models with a large Renault badge in the center and with large and futuristic LEDs both front and back. The RS model looks the most attractive thanks to cool-looking paint colors, larger exhaust pipes, dark contrasting panels, and much better-looking wheels.
The interior is also fairly nice, but many of its competitors are better. The driving experience with the normal Megane is docile and comfortable while the RS feels like a blast to drive. It is a true hot hatchback which is why so many people prefer it over the likes of the Focus RS, the Audi S3, or the Golf GTI.
Reliability and Common Issues
The newer Megane manages to be a decently reliable car which means that it fares much better than the previous generations. It suffers from issues with the engine, the transmission, the power steering system, the suspension, and the electronics.
If you take proper care of it, it should be able to last a really long time without ever leaving you stranded. The reality is that many of the used Megane models have been abused and not properly maintained over the years which is why they are so problematic after a decade of use.
Pricing and Practicality
In Europe, the Megane hatchback starts at around €20,000 for the base model, while higher-end models can cost up to €35,000. The Megane sedan may be priced slightly higher than the hatchback, depending on the market. Used models are much cheaper as they depreciate rather quickly.
Practicality is more than good enough for usual family use which means that the Megane offers enough space for a family of four. It also offers decent visibility, storage spaces, and a nice and well-organized trunk space.
FAQ Section
Which Cars Rival the Renault Megane?
The Renault Megane is a mid-range compact car that competes with several other popular models in its class. Some of the key competitors of the Megane include the VW Golf, the Ford Focus, the Peugeot 308, the Mazda 3, the Honda Civic, and the Citroen C3.
The Golf might be the one with more badge appeal, the Focus offers the best gas engines, the Peugeot is likely the most stylish and futuristic, the Mazda is the most reliable while the Civic is the most practical, but not the best-looking.
How Safe is the Renault Megane?
In Euro NCAP safety ratings, the Renault Megane has consistently scored high marks for adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, pedestrian protection, and safety assist features. The most recent Euro NCAP safety rating for the Megane, awarded in 2015, gave the car a five-star overall safety rating, with particular praise for its safety assist features.
Some of the safety features that may be included in the Megane, depending on the model and market, include electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, traction control, airbags, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rearview cameras.
Is the Renault Megane Going Electric?
Yes, the upcoming Renault Megane is going to be a 100% electric car which is what most people hoped for since EVs and small family hatchbacks are a match made in heaven. It is not yet clear if the new Megane is going to solely be an EV or if it is going to be available as a hybrid, or even a fully gasoline-powered model.
We will have to wait and see, but it would be a surprise if the Megane becomes a 100% electric car as not many people are still willing to go for an EV due to charging constraints and lack of long-distance convenience.
Cars that are similar to the Renault Megane:
- Volkswagen Golf: The Volkswagen Golf is a popular compact car known for its solid build quality, comfortable ride, and versatility. It offers a range of engines, including gasoline, diesel, and hybrid options.
- Ford Focus: The Ford Focus is another well-known compact car that offers a good balance of comfort, performance, and fuel efficiency. It is available in various body styles, including hatchback and sedan.
- Peugeot 308: The Peugeot 308 is a stylish compact car with a sleek design and a comfortable interior. It features a range of efficient engines and offers a smooth and refined driving experience.
- Opel Astra: The Opel Astra is a compact car that offers a spacious and well-equipped interior. It comes with a range of engine options, including gasoline, diesel, and hybrid variants.
- Hyundai i30: The Hyundai i30 is a compact car that offers a good blend of style, comfort, and practicality. It comes with a range of features and is available in different body styles, including hatchback and wagon.
- Kia Ceed: The Kia Ceed is a compact car that offers a generous amount of interior space and a comfortable ride. It comes with a range of engines and offers good value for money.
- Toyota Corolla: The Toyota Corolla is a well-established compact car known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It offers a comfortable and practical interior and comes with a range of safety features.
- Honda Civic: The Honda Civic is a compact car that combines sporty styling with practicality. It offers a range of engines, including turbocharged options, and provides a comfortable and engaging driving experience.
- Mazda3: The Mazda3 is a compact car that stands out with its sleek design and premium interior. It offers excellent handling, a range of engine options, and advanced safety features.
- Seat Leon: The Seat Leon is a compact car that offers a stylish design, good performance, and a well-equipped interior. It provides a comfortable ride and is available with various engine options.
