Renault callings this car the Renault Megane 3, although in fact it could perhaps be more fairly thought of as the Megane 2.5, as it sits on an evolved version of its predecessor’s platform. But this is no mere facelift, because it shares not a single significant dimension with the previous Megane range.
And significantly, every important dimension has increased. Length, width, height, track… you name it, it’s bigger than before. Renault has clearly been stung by criticism of the old car’s lack of interior space and has expanded the car to be more accommodating not just for its passengers, but their luggage too.
But what the self-imposed constraint of adapting the old underpinnings has prevented is the development of a multi-link rear suspension system, as found not only on the likes of the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf but also on new and able Korean offerings such as the Hyundai i30 and Kia Cee’d.
Even though Renault calls the three-door Mégane a coupé in our book it’s a hatch. Like the five-door, it has little visually to make it stand out from the crowd.
The Megane Sport Tourer is a smart-looking wagon, but the Renault Megane Coupé/Cabriolet is less convincing, saddled with a sizeable rump into which its folding glass roof (a neat touch) has to fold into.
The Renaultsport Mergane coupé is more of a triumph, its look immediately enhanced by the grafting on of wider wheel arches. The front bumper has a larger air intake, complete with a Formula One-inspired aerodynamic blade and optional LED running lights. At the sides there are more pronounced sills, and at the rear an elongated spoiler and central exhaust are incorporated into a small diffuser.
