Renault’s third attempt at its most successful model has now arrived on our shores, headlined by the announcement of a 5 year / unlimited kilometre warranty for GT and RS models.. The Mégane III now features uniformed brand identity styling already seen on the smaller Clio and some technological and mechanical upgrades. The renewed Mégane was at EFTM’s disposal during a Renault driving day on the NSW / QLD border.
The Mégane III is available in both hatch and wagon, the hatch is offered across three specification levels. Authentique, GT-Line and GT-Line Premium. The wagon base variant is the Dynamique followed again by GT-Line and GT-Line Premium.
However the real fun machines in the pack are the Mégane GT220 Hatch and Sport Wagon,with the hatch now a permanent addition to the range. The Sport Wagon can be further dolled up via the optional Premium specification.
An entry level Energy TCe 130 turbocharged 1.2-litre four-cylinder 97kW / 205Nm engine is now available on the Mégane range with a 6-speed Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) automatic transmission also now joining the party. There’s also the option of a 6-speed manual. Curiously a fuel saving Stop & Start system is only available on the manual. Renault claims 5.6l / 100km at the pump.
Renault predicts 28 per cent of customers will opt for the diesel dCi 110 turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder producing 80kW / 240Nm. It’s paired exclusively with the 6-speed EDC automatic and a frugal 4.5l / 100km is claimed.
On the GT220 Hatch and Wagon a far more entertaining 2.0-litre four cylinder turbocharged petrol engine comes as standard. Golf GTi matching figures of 162kW / 340Nm see the hatch or wagon hustle along at a smile inducing pace. Only available as a 6-speed manual a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 7.3l / 100km is alleged. It’s good for a 0-100km time of 7.6 seconds.
I drove most variants across a lengthy circuit through the mountainous back country inland from the NSW / QLD coastal tourist meccas of Tweed Heads, Coolangatta and the Gold Coast. There’d be not too many better roads to put any car through its paces.
The base Authentique manual hatch feels a little stripped back with dubious plastics making it a far cry from the more lavishly appointed and sophisticated Volkswagen Golf and even the Mazda 3. It just feels a tad dated.
However performance is perfectly adequate and not what you’d expect from a tiny 1.2-litre turbocharged unit. Only the steepest inclines embarrassed what is otherwise a wiling unit. The softer tuned suspension provides a cushioned ride, while still maintaining a positive level of crispness through the twisty bits.
But it’s the GT-Line upgrades which give the hatch and wagon some sporting and more luxurious credentials. With improved interior appointments and stiffer suspension it’s really the only option for those who long for any sense of driving satisfaction. The EDC transmission is certainly quick enough, although throttle timing is imperative exiting corners to avoid a trough of torque nothingness which hinders forward momentum for longer than a second.
Jumping into the diesel wagon revealed a completely different set of characteristics. With lighter steering and a noticeably softer rear end, you tend to wrestle the wagon through corners rather than point it in to them.
The diesel unit is relatively well refined, inevitably clatter does filter into the cabin, but with a torque punch kicking in at 1750 rpm it propels you along capably.
But for some giggle inducing action look no further than the GT220 models. With GT specific chassis and a light but pleasingly notchy 6-speed manual matched to a raucous free-revving 2.0-litre turbo it’s fun, fun and more fun. Seemingly endless grip, taut yet compliant suspension and stronger pull, particularity in third it earns the hot hatch status often loosely thrown around.
Mégane Hatch Authentique
Mégane Hatch GT-Line
Mégane Hatch GT-Line Premium
MÉGANE WAGON
Mégane Wagon Dynamique
Mégane Wagon GT-Line
Mégane Wagon GT-Line Premium
MÉGANE GT220 HATCH AND SPORT WAGON
Mégane GT220 Premium Hatch and Sport Wagon
Manufactures List Price
Mégane Hatch Models
Mégane Wagon Models
The Mégane at its very base is on par with the likes of Hyundai’s i30 and Toyota Corolla. As you start to spend more dollars the hatch or wagon starts to become slightly more competitive alongside the Honda Civic and Ford Focus. With interesting tech like R-Link and the data logging program R.S monitor, plus a 5 year / unlimited factory warranty with capped price servicing of $299 for the first three 10,000km (GT models) or 15,000 service intervals (regular models) the Mégane III may prove to be a viable alternative for many. However new bumpers and grills and a bit of tech here and there make this an average alternative, rather than some of the more superlative offerings.
[schema type=”review” rev_name=”Renault Mégane III (2014)” rev_body=”The Mégane at its very base is on par with the likes of Hyundai’s i30 and Toyota Corolla. As you start to spend more dollars the hatch or wagon starts to become slightly more competitive alongside the Honda Civic and Ford Focus.” author=”Chris Bowen” pubdate=”2014-07-24″ user_review=”3″ min_review=”0″ max_review=”5″ ]
Chris was EFTM’s Motoring Editor for many years, driving everything from your entry level hatch to the latest Luxury cars through to the Rolls Royce.
He has been in the media for 20 years, produced three Olympic games broadcasts, attending Beijing 2008 & London 2012.
Strangely he owns a Toyota Camry Hybrid, he defiantly rejects the knockers.
Chris is married to Gillian and resides in Sydney’s North West. They have Sam the English Springer Spaniel and Felix the Burmese cat to keep them company, and recently welcomed baby Henry to the family.
He has now left EFTM, and writes freelance and runs his own Facebook Page “Bowen’s Garage”
Corsair has announced the new VANGUARD PRO 96 Hall Effect Gaming Keyboard and VANGUARD 96…
Swann has announced two additional cameras in their popular EVO range. The EVO Wireless 2K…
Anker SOLIX has announced the Australian launch and availability of the portable electric cooler, the…
After announcing the new ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X gaming handhelds back…
Samsung has announced a new suite of devices heading to Australia from today, expanding their…
Samsung recently announced the new Galaxy S25 FE ahead of IFA, bringing a new more…