Kia Pro_cee'd vs Renault Megane

The latest generation of three-door family hatches proves style and efficiency are not mutually exclusive – and Kia is aiming to get in on the act. Its new Pro_cee’d brings the updates seen on the facelifted five-door Cee’d to the sporty three-door. 

A refreshed interior, changes to the engine line-up and the introduction of a new range-topper are designed to reinvigorate sales of the value-for-money hatch. The flagship Pro_cee’d 4 gets a hi-tech sat-nav system, 17-inch alloys and a reversing camera as standard. The 2.0-litre diesel engine has also been replaced by a revised version of the existing 1.6 litre. In range-topping 4 trim, it produces 126bhp – that’s 13bhp more than in lesser models.

Rivals come thick and fast in this sector, but one model stands out, as Renault offers a similar package in the shapely Mégane Coupé. It’s one of the class’s best-looking cars, while its 1.5-litre diesel is more efficient, returning 68.9mpg. We put them to the test to see which one emerges as the green catwalk queen...

This test is about style, economy and value – and only one car ticks all three boxes. Next to the Kia, the Renault looks and feels as if it was conceived as a coupé from the start, rather than as a three-door version of the family hatch. 

A nimble chassis ensures it’s great to drive, while the engine provides willing performance. The car’s efficiency clinches the deal, though; it left the fresh Pro_cee’d trailing at the pumps.

The Kia still puts in a decent showing, and is sure to attract plenty of interest. It’s more spacious than the Renault and comes very well equipped – leather upholstery, climate control and satellite navigation are included as standard. What’s more, it’s good to drive and provides stronger pace than the Mégane. 

But if you’re in the market for a frugal, clean and enjoyable hatch that’s capable of turning heads, the Renault is the car to choose.