Renault Megane E-Tech review - Electric motor, drive and performance
The Megane E-Tech is refined, good to drive and offers just enough power
The Megane E-Tech uses the same CMF-EV platform as the all-electric Nissan Ariya, although Renault has designed its own electric motor, which drives the front wheels and provides a sufficient amount of power.
The French manufacturer has also focused on trying to eliminate excess weight from the Megane, keeping the battery and motor as compact as possible and using lightweight materials, such as aluminium, for the doors. A kerbweight of 1,636kg isn’t exactly Lotus-like, but it provides around a 200kg saving compared with rivals such as the Cupra Born and Volkswagen ID.3.
Refinement is a real strength of the Megane E-Tech, particularly at higher motorway speeds where little wind or road noise enters the cabin. It’s also good to drive on a twisty B-road, although not quite as fun as an MG4. The throttle pedal is easy to modulate and the Megane also includes four levels of brake regeneration that you can flick between on the fly using the steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Light, quick steering also helps when driving around town and manoeuvring in tight car parks, and even when riding on 20-inch wheels, potholes and bumps are rounded off nicely. Unfortunately, its low-speed ride is a little busy, but it’s never harsh, so the Megane E-Tech is generally very comfortable and composed.
0-62mph acceleration and top speed
With the Megane E-Tech’s single electric motor producing 217bhp, 0-62mph takes 7.5 seconds and it has a top speed of 99mph. Its 300Nm of instantly available torque means it feels quite spritely off the line, which can be beneficial in and around town. We found the Normal drive mode to be the most agreeable, because engaging Sport resulted in the throttle response becoming a touch too aggressive.
