Renault Australia has announced the arrival of the all-new fourth-generation Megane, due to already have reached local dealerships in all of its four variants and starting from $22,490.
First launched in 2015 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the all-new Megane is developed using the CMF-CD platform shared between Renault and sister company Nissan, and brings the French marque’s updated design philosophy to their medium hatch which is now the largest (in size) it has ever been.
Australian customers will be able to choose between, as mentioned, four variants that begin with the entry ‘Life’ and steps further to the Zen, GT-Line and top-spec GT. Standard features on the base car are quite generous and include a reversing camera and parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring system, keyless entry/start, LED daytime running lights, dual-zone climate control, automatic headlamps, automatic wipers, and the R-Link2 infotainment system with 7-inch centrally-mounted display.
The Megane Zen gains 16-inch alloy wheels over the Life’s steels, satellite navigation, electronic parking brake, and front parking sensors along with an optional sunroof.
The Megane GT-Line aims to bring much of the premium materials and aesthetic of the full GT but without the price premium called for by the added performance. This brings it larger 17-inch alloys, Alcantara/leather interior upholstery, blind spot monitoring, ambient interior lighting, 7-inch TFT instrument panel, and an electric sunroof.
It should be noted that the larger 18-inch wheels, a premium Bose sound system, and an 8.7-inch portrait infotainment screen can be optioned for the Megane GT-Line.
All variants save for the GT are powered by the same TCe130 1.2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder that we’ve seen in the Clio and Captur. It produces 97kW and 205Nm which is adequate poke even for the larger Megane despite its on-paper deficiencies.
Its claimed 5.6-litre/100km combined fuel economy figure should make up for that by needing fewer trips to the pump, though, and can be paired to either a six-speed manual or the EDC dual-clutch transmission.
This brings neatly to the range-topping Megane GT which uses a 151kW/280Nm 1.6-litre turbocharged engine for thrust. In addition to more raw grunt, Renault has fitted it with their four-wheel steering system called 4CONTROL. Other niceties include standard 18-inch wheels, launch control, sports suspension, upgraded brakes, aluminium shift paddles and pedals, Alcantara/leather upholstery and an RS Drive sports mode.
“Renault Australia is delighted to announce the on sale date for the all-new Megane, one of our best known nameplates in Australia and yet another of our core models that has been completely reinvigorated. It joins our recently launched Koleos medium SUV, ensuring Renault has all-new players in two of the most competitive segments. Along with Clio and Captur, Renault has one of the freshest passenger line-ups in Australia,” said Justin Hocevar, Renault Australia managing director.
“The all-new Megane offers something for everyone, with each variant infused with Renault’s award-winning global design ethos. Its array of sophisticated technology is usually seen in more prestige vehicles and we are confident the all-new Megane will be a hit with Australians seeking superior levels of style, refinement and driving dynamics, all packaged at a highly competitive value proposition,” he added.
- Megane Life - Manual - $22,490
- Megane Life - EDC - $24,990
- Megane Zen - EDC - $27,490
- Megane GT-Line - EDC - $32,490
- Megane GT - EDC - $38,490
For more on Renault vehicles, including pricing and specifications, check out our Showroom.
