Used Renault Megane Review (2016-present) MK4
Independent review by Peter Hayward from Driving Force
4-minute read
- Sharp looks
- Range of hi-tech equipment
- Quiet on the move
- Rivals are more spacious
- Ride may feel knobbly on rougher surfaces
- Not the most practical
What's the Renault Megane like?
The present Renault Megane is a family hatch in the traditional vein that’s hugely accomplished and easy to live with, while offering good performance from all but the lowest powered models.
It was launched in 2016, and is soon to be replaced by a brand-new electric hatch bearing the same name.
But in the meantime, it’s a car that would suit many families who've owned a Ford Focus or Vauxhall Astra and have not been lured by the boom in higher riding crossovers.
One thing that sets the Renault Megane apart from the opposition is a higher level of equipment for the same money as other cars, but more on that later.
The Megane looks wide and purposeful from the front with lovely flowing lines down the sides, and the way it’s built feels right up there with the best in its class. It’s well finished inside and out and beautifully screwed together.
Engines
Petrol engines start with a 1.2-litre TCe turbo with 100 or 130bhp. The 100bhp is pretty slow, and no more economical than the 130bhp, which, with a 0 to 60mph time of 10.2 seconds, is more than adequate.
Then comes a smooth and refined 1.3-litre TCe with 140bhp, and this brings the sprint down to 9.4 seconds, while still managing almost the same economy.
Another later version of this engine has no less than 160bhp, sprinting to 60mph in 8.9 seconds and still managing a comparison figure of 54mpg.
Finally, the performance master of the range – apart from the RenaultSport models – is a 1.6-litre, only available in upper trims, with an excellent 205bhp and standard 7-speed automatic gearboxes bringing it up to 60mph in just 6.8 seconds and still rated at 47mpg.
On the diesel front, there are two offerings – a 1.5-litre dCi with 115bhp, and a 1.6-litre with 130bhp. Both of these are capable of 60mpg at very best and get to 60mph in 11.1 and 9.6 seconds respectively.
The 6-speed gearbox is slick and quick to help progress, and the clutch is light – if rather high off the floor. There's also an automatic offered on most models, and it suits the car well.
Driving Experience and Interior
The suspension setup gives flat and very quick roadholding with tremendous grip. It feels marvellous and hugely safe through every corner.
Peter Hayward
The downside in some is that the ride can get quite knobbly on rougher surfaces, both in town and at higher speeds on poor roads.
Upper models get a drive mode selector called Multi-Sense that gives the driver options like Neutral, Sport, Comfort, Individual, and Eco modes.
This alters things like response to the accelerator, steering weight and even engine sound, but it doesn’t have any control over the suspension.
Refinement is very good on the move, with very little wind or tyre noise, and hardly any bump-thump from the big wheels and low profile tyres.
Inside is a lovely simple dash with a large digital figure speedometer inside a full sweep rev counter, plus fuel and temperature gauges and readout for the trip computer.
Supportive seats hold in all the right places and there’s decent rear legroom, plus a good-sized, well-shaped boot.
Equipment
Main trim levels are Expression, Dynamique, GT-Line, and Privilege, but there are also numerous add-ons and special editions.
Mid-range Dynamique comes with heated mirrors, audio remote control, traction control, excellent seat and column adjustment, air conditioning, alarm, and cruise control.
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Find your Renault Megane your way with CarStore
Comfortability, a quality driving experience, and all-round capabilities are just a few reasons why the Renault Megane is a great choice in the used car market. This spacious hatchback boasts plenty of tech and has enough room for up to five inside, making for a relaxing and pleasant experience for all.
