The next Mégane will be the nameplate’s fourth model generation; the first one, designed in-house under Patrick Le Quément, was launched in 1995 as the successor of the Renault 19, which had replaced the Renault 11 (a.k.a. Renault Encore) in 1988. Even more parsimonious is the “hybrid assist” diesel set to appear in 2017, with a targeted combined economy figure of 94.1mpg.
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Renault’s new-look Megane hatchback moves the game forward for the brand in a number of ways, and will give the French brand’s fast-growing Australian arm a big boost, given it competes in the market’s biggest segment. In common with the Clio Renaultsport, the GT’s seven-speed dual-clutch supports a multi change-down function, where holding the paddle while braking hard automatically changes to the lowest suitable gear.
More interesting is the dCi 165 engine arriving in 2016, which will slot under the bonnet of the GT. Also available in the range-topping GT is a 202bhp version of Renault’s TCe petrol, which should serve as an adequate stop-gap before the inevitable Renaultsport.
Featuring an all new look which follows in the footsteps of the mid-size Talisman sedan and wagon, the small Megane pushes into the more premium territory.
The strong headlights feature C-shaped daytime running lights that wrap around the main lenses and are inspired by the Renault Talisman – a saloon auto that’ll be sold in continental Europe but not the UK.
Both front and rear lamps feature a distinctive new lighting signature, with high end models taking advantage of full LED illumination for both head, and tail lights. While the upmarket new Espace and Talisman saloon aren’t going to be made in right hand drive, we will get the new Megane and it basically represents the bottom rung of Renault’s more upmarket half of its range.
The top-line GT model will also include 4Control, a four-wheel-steer system that offers precise handling on challenging twisty roads and also improves manoeuvrability at slower speeds or when parking.
Available equipment includes Bose audio, customisable ambient lighting, heated seats with driver’s massage, and a special 3D-effect velvet trim, developed by Alcantara.
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The high tech interior is dominated by an 8.7-inch portrait oriented R-Link touchscreen. Like other recent units, the display will respond to smartphone-style pinch and zoom inputs.
