Skip advert
Advertisement

Renault Megane (2016-2022) review

Its stylish good looks may attract attention, but the Renault Megane can't compete with the very best in class

Overall Auto Express rating

3.5

How we review cars
Pros
  • Excellent refinement
  • Comfortable ride
  • Decent practicality
Cons
  • Handling lacks sparkle
  • Limited engine and trim options
  • Rear passenger space
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

The Renault Megane is more stylish than ever, although it’s not the sharpest car in its class to drive. It has the looks and enough ability to attract some attention from buyers but, ultimately, it comes up short against the top competition.

A facelift in 2020 has added a little zest, while the introduction of fresh on-board tech and extra standard kit should strengthen the Megane's appeal. The plug-in hybrid version could be of interest to those with an eye on low running costs, although there isn't really a compelling reason to recommend Renault's family hatchback over its more complete rivals.

About the Renault Megane

The Renault Megane is a staple of the compact hatchback class and has been on sale since 1995. The current car is the Megane Mk4, and it was launched in 2016 after the Mk3 had a relatively long eight-year shelf life. The latest Megane, facelifted in 2020, builds on the talents of past models by adding some much needed quality and technology to the mix.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The Megane has an evolutionary look, which is no bad thing when you consider how radical past versions have been. The shape is similar to before, but with larger dimensions that are designed to create more interior space, while details such as the C-shaped daytime running lights on higher-spec cars and the prominent Renault badge on the nose help the Megane to stand out from the crowd.

Currently, the Megane is sold as a five-door hatchback or as a Sport Tourer estate. The third-generation Megane was sold as a sporty three-door, and there was the Megane CC folding hard-top convertible, too. However, with buyers now more interested in SUVs, crossovers and sports cars, it's hard to imagine Renault ever offering new versions of these two cars.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

For those wanting increased performance, Renault offers the R.S. 300 and R.S. Trophy, along with the track-ready Trophy-R model.

With prices starting from around £22,000, Renault has pared back the Megane range to two available trim levels: Iconic and R.S. Line, while there is a single 138bhp 1.3-litre petrol engine and a 113bhp 1.5-litre diesel unit to choose from - each available with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed auto transmission. A plug-in hybrid model is due to join the lineup later in 2021.

Iconic trim includes 16-inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors and a 7.0-inch infotainment display, while the R.S. Line features bigger 17-inch alloys, sports seats, upgraded upholstery and a 9.3-inch touchscreen.

The compact hatchback class is fiercely competitive, and there are a lot of talented rivals to the Megane. Chief among these are class staples, the Vauxhall Astra, VW Golf and Ford Focus. French rivals are the Peugeot 308 and currently the Citroen C4 Cactus, although the latter is a budget alternative in the class. The SEAT Leon and Mazda 3 offer sporty handling, while the Skoda Octavia has more space than the Megane. If dependability and a long warranty are what you're after, then the Toyota Auris, Kia Ceed, Hyundai i30 and Honda Civic are all dependable.

For an alternative review of the latest Renault Megane Hatchback visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,135Avg. savings £5,771 off RRP*Used from £13,571
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £35,080Avg. savings £3,743 off RRP*Used from £25,098
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £15,940Avg. savings £2,827 off RRP*Used from £9,000
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £37,870Avg. savings £2,955 off RRP*
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Renault Clio to shun electric power and stick with petrol and hybrid options
Renault Clio design render - front

New Renault Clio to shun electric power and stick with petrol and hybrid options

Renault’s sixth-generation Clio hatchback will get a clean look and hi-tech kit, and our exclusive images show what it could look like
News
12 Feb 2025
Car Deal of the Day: VW Golf GTI hot hatch legend for a very cool price
Volkswagen Golf GTI - front corner right

Car Deal of the Day: VW Golf GTI hot hatch legend for a very cool price

The Golf GTI has skilfully combined racy performance with everyday useability for nearly 50 years. It’s our Deal of the Day for 10 February
News
10 Feb 2025
The small petrol car lives! Pint-sized Fiat Pandina due in 2027
Fiat Panda Cross - front static

The small petrol car lives! Pint-sized Fiat Pandina due in 2027

Fiat will build a new city-sized Pandina based on the new 500 platform, bringing a proper, petrol powered A-segment city car to market as early as 202…
News
12 Feb 2025