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Renault Megane Coupe vs VW Scirocco

New diesel coupés from VW and Renault blend style and efficiency. Which is better?

Renault Megane Coupe Vs. VW Scirocco

November 2009

Dedicated followers of fashion aren’t satisfied with sharp hatchbacks or sleek saloons. For today’s trendsetters, only a curvy coupé will do. And the good news is that there has never been more choice.

Car manufacturers will label pretty much anything a coupé these days. From four-door saloons to three-door hatchbacks – if it looks good, the chances are it will get the racy badge.

The Volkswagen Scirocco can trace its roots all the way back to the Seventies, so it is steeped in two-door tradition – although the latest model focuses more on the now than the nostalgic. It’s a world away from the boxy car that introduced the Scirocco name.

Tested here in 2.0-litre diesel form, the latest Golf-based hatch adds low running costs and emissions to its long list of talents.

But Volkswagen isn’t the only manufacturer to attach the desirable coupé tag to what is effectively a three-door hatchback.

Renault is trying the same trick with its Mégane Coupé. And while it is more closely related to the five-door Mégane than the Scirocco is to the Golf, the distinctive design ensures it cuts a dash.

The French company also has a reputation for producing great diesel engines, so this model is the perfect opponent for our VW. On paper, its 130bhp 1.9-litre unit is 8bhp down on the German model’s, although a lower price tag and long list of standard equipment count in the Renault’s favour.

So, has the Mégane got what it takes to sideline the Scirocco? We find out as the two go head-to-head in the battle for coupé honours.

For an alternative review of the latest Volkswagen Scirocco visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

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6 Comments

Well we already know the answer to the question.

HAS THE MEGANE got what it takes to sideline THE SCIROCCO.

If auto Express carry out the test it is a full gone conclusion that it is the Scirocco that is the winner.

If anyone is interested , visit the site of HONEST JOHN and see what he thinks to the scirroco

Type in MEGANE COPE TEST 2009, for the answer.

By jurangqw on 25 November, 2009, 3:28pm

PS

The scirocco is nearly £4000 more for the same Specification too.

By jurangqw on 25 November, 2009, 3:37pm

You make a valid point about the spec-adjusted price difference, but there's one important factor that you've missed. Depreciation is one of the biggest costs involved in running a car, and according to our figures the VW is expected to lose just under £9,000 after three years and 30,000 miles - some £4,000 less than the Renault.
Ross Pinnock, road test editor

By RossP19 on 25 November, 2009, 4:20pm

Scirocco V Megane

Hi Ross.

I take on board what you say.

However, it is a little over the top pre-emptious guessing at what the car will be worth in 3 years time.

I look after all my cars like a baby. including owning VWs.

Just try getting what you forecast.

The difference in depreciation as you refer is a little ambitous.

40% de[preciation from £24000 for the Scirocco leaves very little difference to a 60% depreciation having only paid £20000 for the megane if that be the case.

By jurangqw on 26 November, 2009, 5:20pm

Scirocco

Far from being boxy the Mk 1 Scirocco was one of the prettiest cars VW have ever made. It was also identical in concept to the current model, even the side window shape is similar, so not a "world away" at all.

Who writes this rubbish?

By JMDonald on 26 November, 2009, 11:04pm

Why either?

They are both ugly at the rear, the megane at the front too, they are not overly practical and far too expensive in my opinion.

If I had two choose one of them it would be the VW but I wouldn't choose either unless I really had to.

Not worth the money as far as I can see

By PaulVFR800 on 13 December, 2009, 12:05am

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Full Car Reviews

Volkswagen Scirocco

1st Volkswagen Scirocco

Golf-based coupé blends style and great image with strong diesel
Renault Megane

2nd Renault Megane

Stylish three-door distances itself from family hatchback cousin
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Facts and Figures

Verdict

Looks are important in the coupé sector, but the winner of this test needs beauty that runs more than skin-deep.

Judged purely on style, the Renault Mégane is an appealing choice. Its French flair is evident in its design and driving dynamics – and it’s the more practical car, too. Yet that counts for little against a car as talented as the Scirocco.

While the Volkswagen’s smart design is not as daring as the Renault’s, its purposeful stance and smoothly styled rear end provide a more aggressive look. Add surefooted Golf underpinnings, a high-quality cabin and impressive fuel consumption, and the sleek Scirocco deserves to take the victory.

The fact it will be better for your bank balance in the long run only adds to the appeal, and as always the VW ownership experience shouldn’t disappoint, either.

* 1st: VW Scirocco

A choice that should satisfy the head and the heart – the Scirocco mixes dynamic ability and fashionable looks with high-quality components, a frugal diesel engine and impressive residuals. As an all-rounder, it is hard to fault.

* 2nd: Megane coupe

The Mégane is one of the best family car-based coupés around. In fact, if you want to get attention it’s the better of these two, and also boasts a superior engine. However, we couldn’t ignore the VW’s stronger residuals or fuel economy.

 
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