Skip advert
Advertisement

Renault Megane TCE 180 Dynamique

turbocharged petrol model is the hottest version of new Renault from launch. So, how does it rate?

Overall Auto Express rating

4.0

How we review cars
Find your Renault Megane
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

After its predecessor was so distinctive, it’s a shame the new Renault Mégane is likely to get lost in the current hatchback playing field. Although it is neatly styled, it’s no head-turner. Still, the car has improved dramatically when it comes to dynamics. It’s brilliant to drive with that blend of suppleness and agility which French manufacturers tend to do so well. This version, with the most powerful 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine, is quick, effortless and entertaining. It’s well equipped, too.Rival: VW Golf 1.4 TSIWhile the Mégane is capable, it’s outclassed by the super-turbo 1.4 TSI Golf. This model is quicker and much more green, posting economy and CO2 emissions of 44.8mpg and 145g/km respectively.

Advertisement - Article continues below

How good is the new Renault Mégane? We were impressed by the 1.5-litre diesel version we drove last week (Issue 1,033). This week, it’s the turn of what will be the hottest model when the car is launched next month.

It’s called the TCE 180 – the letters stand for Turbo Control Efficiency – and it’s matched to the mildly sporty Dynamique trim.

The bodystyle is five-door only from November, with the three-door Coupé joining it next year. And it’s the latter that will turn most heads: Renault has played safe with the five-door in the hope of alienating fewer buyers than its predecessor did.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Used - available now

Corsa

2022 Vauxhall

Corsa

30,730 milesManualPetrol1.2L

Cash £10,597
View Corsa
XC40

2022 Volvo

XC40

20,200 milesAutomaticPetrol1.5L

Cash £22,895
View XC40
XC60

2025 Volvo

XC60

9,600 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L

Cash £36,495
View XC60
Tucson

2023 Hyundai

Tucson

27,733 milesAutomaticPetrol1.6L

Cash £19,197
View Tucson

Inside, the cabin is no design revolution, either, but the quality feels good. The neatest part is the instrument cluster, whose rev counter overlaps a round, digital speedometer with high-resolution LCD representations.

Activate the limiter warning and segments light up around the speedo as the pace rises. They flash once you’re past your selected maximum. This function will probably make the most sense on this particular model.

The 180bhp 2.0-litre car powers from 0-62mph in 8.3 seconds and on to 137mph. It’s typical of today’s best turbos in having hardly any lag, great response and almost diesel-like torque. A smooth, six-speed box helps.

The best news, however, is the handling. The Mégane’s underpinnings are based on the old car’s, but there’s a fresh and much stiffer front subframe on which is mounted an entirely new electric power-steering system.

And, taking a cue from the Renaultsport Méganes, there’s now much less self-centring assistance when you don’t want it. The result? Precise, natural steering which complements great roadholding, keen handling and a taut but smooth ride.

The new Mégane might not have quite the refinement of the latest Volkswagen Golf, yet it runs the Ford Focus close for entertainment. That’s good news if you happen to enjoy driving – and it bodes well for Renaultsport variants to come.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £6,040 off RRP*Used from £13,000
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,625Avg. savings £2,271 off RRP*Used from £12,700
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £4,500 off RRP*
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £2,549 off RRP*Used from £11,890
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Peugeot 208 GTi: electric hot hatch gets stunning looks and plenty of power
Peugeot E-208 GTi - reveal front

New Peugeot 208 GTi: electric hot hatch gets stunning looks and plenty of power

Hot Peugeot E-208 gets racier styling, 276bhp and does 0-62mph in just 5.7 seconds
News
13 Jun 2025
New BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort review: the best BYD yet
BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort - front

New BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort review: the best BYD yet

The new BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort is arguably the Chinese brand's most convincing model in its range
Road tests
11 Jun 2025
New entry-level Renault Symbioz is £3k cheaper than a Nissan Qashqai
Renault Symbioz hybrid - front angled

New entry-level Renault Symbioz is £3k cheaper than a Nissan Qashqai

The Renault Captur has also been fitted the new full-hybrid powertrain, which gets a bigger battery for more pure-electric driving
News
12 Jun 2025