Car Test
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R0320 | |
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March 2003 |
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| Renault Megane | ||
| Printer Friendly Page | Featured model: 1.6 16v 5door Privilege | |
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Renault is developing a reputation as a mass-producer which is, nevertheless, prepared to go out on a limb to be more adventurous. This is expressed unmistakably in the latest Megane’s styling and the company’s willingness to incorporate up-to-the-minute technology for driver and passenger aids.
The other major aspect where Renault appears to be ahead of the game is in secondary safety – it if it comes to the crunch. The Megane joins Laguna and Vel Satis in offering class-leading levels of occupant protection in an accident. This doesn’t mean just a plethora of features (like a high airbag count), but crash behaviour that integrates all aspects to maximise survivability and minimise injury. To occupants, that is – pedestrians are still not carefully considered. Megane stops well in emergency braking, too, although we don’t like the ultra-light, unprogressive brake pedal response; the new-generation Bosch anti-lock control ensures undiminished stopping power if you press too hard, however. Having dealt with styling (your decision) and safety, what else is special about this new Megane Hatchback? Well, not a lot really, except to say that we were unimpressed and unconvinced by the electronic gizmos, such as hands-free, keyless locking. Of course, you don’t have to have this on sensibly priced mid-range trim versions, and you’re not missing much. Basically, the thing responds erratically, and it’s hard to tell if everything is really secure at times, because ‘testing’ the boot release or a door handle is supposed to unlock everything again, in any case. Other problems with our test car included automatic headlamps that wouldn’t stay off, even when we tried, as well as footwell lamps and the radio that were similarly irrepressible. We thought the automatic climate control left a lot to be desired, as well, although it was better on ‘manual’. So, having explored the best and the most disappointing aspects of the Megane, what’s left is a curiously mediocre performer that’s surprisingly cramped in the back seat. The luggage space is fine and the front cabin accommodates all shapes and sizes in reasonable comfort. Driving this 1.6 Megane is no problem, once you’ve tuned into the rather stolid feel of the clutch, accelerator and steering. Indeed, when driven with verve, it responds rather well, feeling and sounding quite sporty. It pulls cleanly from low revs, but generally feels less adept in steadier driving – for example, the engine revs up of its own accord as you go between gears causing jerkiness. Most of this can be ‘dialled-out’ with familiarity, but it doesn’t flatter the unaccustomed. |
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