Skip advert
Advertisement

Kia Pro_cee'd vs Renault Megane

Facelifted Kia Pro_cee’d will sell on its style and efficiency. We see if it’s a better buy than attractive Renault rival

Kia Pro_cee'd vs Renault Megane header

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 The 2.0-litre diesel engine has also been replaced by a revised version of the existing 1.6 litre.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.

Advertisement - Article continues below

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...

Verdict

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.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,785Avg. savings £4,614 off RRP*Used from £10,641
MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £27,005Avg. savings £7,837 off RRP*Used from £12,712
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,625Avg. savings £3,189 off RRP*Used from £11,990
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £14,575Avg. savings £2,614 off RRP*Used from £7,850
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

MG Cyber X will morph into a mini-Mercedes within two years
MG Cyber X design render - front

MG Cyber X will morph into a mini-Mercedes within two years

Boxy small SUV is gearing up for production, and our exclusive images show how the model might look
News
30 Aug 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Ford Puma Gen-E granted ultra-low £132 monthly lease
Ford Puma Gen-E - front action

Car Deal of the Day: Ford Puma Gen-E granted ultra-low £132 monthly lease

The EV grant has made the Ford Puma Gen-E a lot cheaper, and lease customers can cash-in with today’s Deal of the Day
News
29 Aug 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Racy and retro Renault 5 for only £188 a month
Renault 5 - front full width

Car Deal of the Day: Racy and retro Renault 5 for only £188 a month

The Renault 5 is taking the market by storm – and at this price it’s easy to see why. It’s our Deal of the Day for August 30
News
30 Aug 2025