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Renault Mégane Hatchback 1.4 16v Authentique

For:
Distinctive looks, a fine range of engines, excellent quality, low running costs and generous equipment. It's also a refined and comfortable drive

Against:
The extra road it occupies over its predecessor doesn't translate into good rear passenger space. Electric power steering dulls driver satisfaction



Performance

There's a broad engine line-up, ranging from a 1.4- to a 2.0-litre, and from 80bhp to 165bhp. The 1.6 petrol and 1.5 turbodiesel reward a relaxed driving style, as does the 1.9 turbodiesel, which also provides strong acceleration and cruising ability, while the 2.0 petrol has plenty of punch. The turbocharged 2.0 unit develops 165bhp.

Ride & handling

The ride is supple, although it can't mask all potholes and rutted surfaces. This cushiness is evident in some lean in tight corners, but it holds the road well. However, the electric power steering is devoid of feedback, and strong self-centring means you have to keep a firm grip on the wheel.

Refinement

The 1.6 petrol and 1.5 turbodiesel engines are vocal when extended and noticeable even when cruising at motorway pace, but the 2.0 and 1.9 turbodiesel are less intrusive. There's some rear suspension thump on poor surfaces, and wind noise becomes apparent from about 60mph, but by class standards, the Mégane is quiet.

Buying & owning

Renault has gone out of its way to make the Mégane one of the best-value cars in this class. Prices are low, and operating costs should follow suit. Easy repair of minor knocks helps keep insurance premiums low, while good fuel economy and low emissions figures help business users. A face-lifted Mégane is due in showrooms this spring.

Quality & reliability

The quality of the Mégane's cabin stands comparison with the class best, such as the new VW Golf and Mazda 3. It has top-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces and excellent trim fit and paintwork, and in our latest reliability survey, the French manufacturer put up a good showing, so all bodes well.

Safety & security

The low insurance ratings afforded all Méganes attest to Renault's efforts on both counts. Deadlocks are a standard fit to combat theft, and top versions have a keyless entry and starting system. Five-door models have eight airbags while the three-door has up to 10, and all get anti-lock brakes.

Behind the wheel

The driver sits high, but there's two-way steering adjustment to make it easy for all to get comfortable. Forward vision is fine, but there are blind spots over the shoulder and to the rear. The controls are well laid-out and easy to use, but the five-speed 'box in smaller-engined models is slicker than the six-speeder fitted higher up the range.

Space & practicality

The latest Mégane is bigger than its predecessor, but rear passenger space is only average. Headroom is fine, but legroom is inadequate for adults. The boot is flat and rectangular but it's not the biggest in class. The Sport Saloon variant has a huge boot, but doesn't feel spacious considering its size.

Equipment

There are five different trim levels, although not all are available with every engine or body style. The bottom two models do without air-conditioning, a CD player or split rear seats, but every model has anti-lock brakes plus an extensive list of passive safety features.

Running Costs

Town mpg

30.7

Out of Town mpg

50.4

Average mpg

40.9

Tank Capacity (gallons)

13.2

CO2 Rating (g/km)

165

Insurance Group

3

Typical Insurance Quote

£304

% Value Retained (3yrs/36,000mls)

35

Typical Contract Hire Rate (pcm)

£263

Pence Per Mile

0

Servicing Cost over 3yrs

£0

Servicing Intervals

1yr/12k

Manufacturers Warranty

3yr/60k + 3yr Paint + 12yr Perforation + 3yr Breakdown

Performance & Measurements

Body type

Hatchback

Number of Doors

5

Number of Seats

5

Engine (cc/type)

1390/4

Fuel Type

Unleaded

Max Power (bhp/rpm)

99/6000

Engine Position

F

Driven Wheels

Front

Length (mm)

4209

Width (mm)

1777

Height (mm)

1458

Boot Space (min ltr)

330

Boot Space (max ltr)

1190

Turning Circle (m)

10.5

Towing Weight(kg)

1300

Kerb Weight (kg)

1145

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