Renault Mégane Coupé

Elegant models such as the Alfa Romeo Brera, VW Scirocco and Renault Laguna Coupé have proved that putting desirability before practicality is making a comeback. Now Renault’s Mégane is getting in on the act. The Coupé version is here – and we’ve driven it on UK roads.

In terms of styling, Renault has done a fantastic job. From every angle, the low-slung Coupé is a real head-turner. Aluminium-effect grille surrounds brighten up the nose, while the raked roofline, muscular rear haunches and redesigned tail-lamps give the Renault an athletic stance.

However, the Mégane still retains an element of practicality. There’s a useful 344-litre boot, while two adults can fit snugly in the rear seats.

Inside, there’s soft-touch leather on the dash and doors, and a chunky feel to the switchgear. However, the seats could offer more support during cornering, while the navigation and audio controls are counter-intuitive.

The Coupé sits 12mm lower than the five-door, and has a stiffer suspension set-up which sharpens up the dynamics. Unfortunately, the ride is fidgety on bumpy B-roads, and the electrically assisted steering, while weightier than on the hatch, offers no real feedback. The 2.0-litre TCe turbo engine is a different story, though, providing strong, smooth acceleration, thanks to a healthy 178bhp and 300Nm of torque. There’s also a less potent 1.6-litre petrol unit, or a choice of three dCi diesels.

If driving dynamics play second fiddle to style, then the Mégane could be the choice for you. However, with prices from £14,745 to £19,195 before fitting options, it’s expensive for a Renault. Performance fans might want to wait until the Renaultsport version, previewed by the Mégane Trophy Concept at last year’s Paris Motor Show, goes on sale next year.

Rival: Alfa Romeo Brera
Drop-dead gorgeous styling has come to be expected from Alfa’s design team. But the dynamics can’t live up to the looks. Last year’s Prodrive-tuned Brera S remedied a number of problems, though.