SMC Renault New Cars - New Megane

The New Renault Mégane is immediately eye-catching, with its dynamic, elegant styling which has been honed to appeal to car enthusiasts, with several cues taken from the world of sport. New Mégane is robust, too, with the accent very much on the fit and finish, as well as on that of the materials used in its construction.

New Mégane's on-road performance lives up to the high standard promised by its looks, with precision, control and efficiency combining to deliver a particularly enjoyable and reassuring ride. A broad, extensively renewed range of dCi and TCe powerplants combining performance and respect for the environment will be available, with four diesel engines that can claim CO2 emissions equal to, or less than, 120g/km.

The petrol range for New Mégane and New Mégane Coupé will comprise the 1.6 16V 110hp, as well as the 2.0 16V 140hp and TCe 180. The 2.0 16V will be available from launch with a six-speed manual gearbox, while continuously variable transmission will be introduced with this powerplant at a later date. Renault's latest petrol engine, the TCe 130 will be added to the range in the spring of 2009. This new, fuel-efficient 1,397cc block packs the power of a 1.8-litre engine (130hp) and the torque of a 2.0 (190Nm), yet its CO2 emissions are less than those of a 1.6, making it particularly respectful of the environment. Depending on version, these engines can drive through five- or six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

Mégane has also been designed to offer best-in-class safety too. Among its features will be double side impact sensors and dual-chamber airbags as seen on Laguna III, aimed at minimising the consequences of a side-on collision.

At launch, three trim levels will be available: Expression, Dynamique and Privilège, priced from £13,995 to £18,795. The new range features an impressive equipment list as standard, with a significant amount of comfort and technology features which are otherwise considered costly optional extras amongst much of the competition.

Mégane Coupe launch January 2009

Like its five-door sibling, New Renault Mégane Coupé immediately exudes a sense of robustness and quality. This impression is heightened by the generous surface area and curvaceous forms of their body panels. Seen from the side, the feature line extends the crease of the slightly prominent front wings rearward to emphasize the car's broad, solid shoulders. The wide track (1.55m) ensures that both the hatch and coupé versions sit squarely on the road and, in the case of New Mégane Coupé, the impression of stability is further amplified by its low ride-height and rear-end styling. The proportions of the two cars, the form of their waistline and their large door panels exude a feeling of protection, especially in the case of the coupé.