Renault Megane vs SEAT Leon vs Vauxhall Astra

The compact family hatch class is as popular as ever, despite fashionable crossovers and small premium cars vying for buyers' attention. So it's no surprise Renault has pulled out all the stops with its latest Megane.

• Best family cars

This new MK4 car is aiming for the top of the sales charts with a blend of style, technology and low running costs. One of its highlights is a cabin that mixes cutting-edge connectivity with an upmarket finish. There's even a version with four-wheel steering - a first for this class.

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However, here we test a model that's likely to be a big hit with private buyers and business users alike - the 1.5 dCi diesel in Dynamique S Nav spec. And we've lined it up against two fierce rivals. First up is our current favourite in this class, the Vauxhall Astra, which we test here for the first time in frugal CDTi 110 guise.

• Renault Megane GT review

Our final contender is the sleek SEAT Leon, which still represents a stern test for any new arrival. So which of our family car stars takes the spoils in this bruising encounter?

Head to head

Business case

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All three cars emit less than 100g/km of CO2, but the Leon Ecomotive and Astra ecoFLEX's outputs are low enough for tax to be rated at 18 per cent; that's one per cent lower than the Megane. Even so, there's just £2 a month between the cheapest and most expensive choices in this test for lower-rate earners.

Boot space

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The Vauxhall and SEAT have clearly been closely benchmarked, as there is just 10 litres seperating their respective boot capacities. The Megane offers a much bigger load area, at 434 litres, but there aren't any extra storage touches.

Infotainment

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The Leon shows its age here, as its 6.8-inch screen is smaller than its rivals', plus the latest apps are only options. Vauxhall gets Apple CarPlay, while Renault's R-Link can be ordered with loads of apps. Also, the Megane's large screen and layout work best.

Verdict

First place: Renault Megane

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Compact hatchback group tests often throw up close results, and this one is no exception. In the final reckoning, the Megane does just enough to take victory. Not only does it look good with a classy cabin, it sets new standards for comfort and refinement. This Dynamique S model also features one of the best infotainment systems in the business, plus it comes loaded with kit.

Second place: Vauxhall Astra

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The Astra tastes defeat for the first time, but it's still a brilliant family hatchback. The excellent ride and handling balance makes it a top choice for keen drivers, while the OnStar concierge service is unrivalled in this class. In addition, the Vauxhall is practical, frugal, and sharply styled, plus its 1.6-litre diesel is a punchy performer. It just can't match the Renault for kit, comfort or refinement.

Third place: SEAT Leon

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Time is starting to catch up with the Leon. Make no mistake, it's still a stylish, practical and cost-effective hatchback, but it can't compete with the Renault for refinement and kit, and its sat-nav and infotainment system systems look and feel a generation behind. While it's still one of our favourites, the fast pace of change in this competitive sector means it's no longer top dog.

Also consider...

Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI Match Edition

Price: £22,350

Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl, 108bhp

You can't consider your next compact hatch without taking a look at a Golf. The latest car is solid and versatile, while Match Edition adds decent kit. High price and emissions make it a costly business choice.

Peugeot 308 1.6 BlueHDI 120 Active

Price: £20,345

Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl, 118bhp

The latest 308 majors on space and style, thanks to its roomy and slickly designed interior. Active trim gets all the essentials, while the punchy 1.6-litre diesel is smooth and frugal. Just check you're comfortable with the i-Cockpit driving position.

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