Renault Mégane Coupé vs. Rivals

Flair, flamboyance and style – the French are known for doing things with a bit of panache. But is the nation’s reputation deserved?

It has been a long time since France’s talent for fashion has been evident on a car, yet the country’s design has always been successfully sent across the Channel – the stunning Worcestershire chateau in our picture is a fine example.

Renault is hoping to have a French fancy to tempt car buyers in the shape of its new Mégane Coupé. It’s the latest model from a firm that’s undergoing a design revolution. As with its revitalised five-door counterpart, the newcomer aims to mix distinctive looks with competitive prices, strong performance and sharp driving dynamics.

However, the Mégane faces a talented welcoming committee. The latest entry-level version of the Volkswagen Scirocco is equally eye-catching and packs an innovative powerplant that promises to be powerful and efficient.

Finally, the Volvo C30 is a style benchmark. The sleek Swede entered the compact coupé market in 2006, and age hasn’t diminished its ability to turn heads. There’s no denying the Renault certainly has its work cut out to make a mark on British soil.