The dynamic-looking, high-quality, All-New Mégane – loaded with technology features from higher-segment cars – is Renault’s star attraction at this year’s IAA in Frankfurt.
Alongside a range of highly-efficient petrol and diesel engines, it will be available from launch as a GT created in association with Renaultsport. A ‘Hybrid Assist’ diesel will be added in 2017. The new Mégane goes on sale in mainland Europe early next year with UK deliveries anticipated in the summer
The new Mégane’s dynamic stance is founded on well-balanced proportions. It is 64mm longer (4,359mm) and 25mm lower (1,447mm) than the third-generation Mégane, and has a 28mm longer wheelbase (2,669mm), which is greater than that of rival models. The front and rear track widths have been widened by 47mm and 39mm respectively to 1,591mm and 1,586mm, while the rear overhang has been shortened compared. Wheel sizes of up to 18 inches will be available.
At the front, Renault’s corporate identity is evident in the large, upright diamond logo and broad grille. This is accentuated by daytime running lights incorporating LED technology to provide a distinctive C-shaped signature that extends down to the bumper. Higher-end versions feature full-LED lighting modules for both dipped and main beams. This Pure Vision LED technology delivers a significant improvement in night-time vision compared with halogen lighting.
Thanks to its strongly sculpted shoulders, the new Mégane radiates the sensuality embedded in Renault design. Taut and precise lines along the lower part of the body and bonnet align towards the front to enhance the dynamic poise of the car. Chrome trim at the front and around the side windows, badges and door handles emphasises the quality of the new Mégane.
There are air scoops either side at the front, deflectors at the rear and motorised flaps which automatically close to reduce drag, making the new Mégane an extremely aerodynamically efficient car and contributing towards its low fuel consumption and emissions.
The rear light units, also all-LED, feature tail lights that are permanently illuminated. This novel horizontal signature helps to accentuate the car’s width. Thanks to new Edge Light technology, it provides a slender 3D brush stroke effect that emits a purple-hued red light.
The new Mégane has a cockpit-style interior with a suiteof high-tech features clustered around the driver to create an enveloping L-shape. They include a number of class firsts: a full colour head-up display, traditionally reserved for vehicles in higher segments; a 7-inch colour Thin Film Transistor (TFT) instrument display; and a portrait-format 8.7-inch R-Link 2 touchscreen as an alternative to the landscape 7-inch screen.
Special focus has been placed on the finish, quality of materials and harmony of the cabin. The soft-touch dashboard extends in a continuous sweep to the top door cappings. It also runs from the lower edge of the dashboard to the centre console. High-end versions feature a full-grain Nappa leather-trimmed steering wheel with elegant chrome detailing, which is echoed on the instrument, air vent, console and switch surrounds.
A tall and broad centre console incorporates a fore/aft adjustable armrest. Higher-end versions focus attention on the console with two slender lines of glowing light, the hue of which can be personalised.
Sculpted seats provide optimum comfort and support with the help of dual density foam. Taking their inspiration from the worlds of interior furnishings and leather goods, the seat materials are warm and modern. Special attention has been paid to the detailing of the top stitching on the seats and door casings.
There are five upholstery grades, all in shades of black. High-end versions are available with plush velour developed with Alcantara, giving a powerful lustre and an intense black 3D effect. High-end versions come with heated seats and electric lumbar adjustment. The driver seat incorporates a massage function.
The new Mégane’s boot capacity of 434 litres is the second largest in the compact car sector and is complemented by interior stowage space totalling 25 litres. Rear knee room of 175mm is a 20mm improvement over that of the third generation Mégane, while shoulder width (1,441mm at the front, 1,390mm in the rear) is amongst the segment’s best. The new Mégane consequently delivers the best of both worlds when it comes to rear passenger space and boot capacity.
BOSE audio systems ensure high quality sound. Engineers from BOSE worked in close co-operation with their counterparts at Renault to optimise the integration of the nine speakers, subwoofer and digital amplifier so that the sound is precise, balanced, tailor-engineered and crystal clear.
The flagship of the new Mégane range at launch will be the Renaultsport-inspired GT, featuring unique exterior and interior embellishments, a 205hp TCe engine mated to a seven-speed EDC dual-clutch transmission, segment-first 4Control four-wheel steering and bespoke chassis settings.
The design of the GT’s front bumper signals the step-up in sportiness that goes hand-in-hand with the Renaultsport DNA. It is complemented by a special design for the upper and lower grilles.
The lower air intake is wider and flanked by air scoops, while a Dark Metal finish – in particular for the door mirror housings – confirms that the car is a true Renault. The optional 18-inch diamond-effect, GT-badged wheels were specially developed by Renaultsport. At the rear, two chrome-plated exhaust tailpipes echo the style of the twin air scoops at the front to provide a sense of symmetry. The tailpipes flank a diffuser that takes its inspiration from Formula One. The new Mégane GT carries Renaultsport badging on the left-hand rear, as well as on both front wings.
The interior is Renaultsport through and through. The wrap-around seats with integral headrests, blue top stitching and a chequered sports logo are comfortable while providing firm lateral support. Three different upholstery choices are available: fabric, Alcantara leather with blue stripes and Alcantara leather with black stripes. There is a bespoke steering wheel, sports pedals in aluminium, a special gear lever and steering-wheel mounted gearshift paddles.
The information delivered by the instrument pack and display screen is enhanced, too, most notably with the addition of a Race mode. Hints of blue within the cabin pick up on the new Iron Blue exterior colour to reinforce the GT’s unique identity.
The new Mégane GT is the first vehicle in its segment to feature four-wheel-steer 4Control technology, specially calibrated by engineers from Renaultsport. The 4Control chassis is a Renault innovation that ensures precise alignment of the rear wheels, providing exceptional driving enjoyment and sporting responsiveness with safety.
4Control ensures precise, dynamic handling on twisty roads with total stability at higher speeds. In emergencies, the four-wheel steering provides reassuring, lightning-fast responses. The car becomes smoother, more precise and more relaxing to drive, without dulling enjoyment. The system also improves manoeuvrability at slower speeds or when parking.
Rounding up the GT’s chassis package are recalibrated dampers, springs, ESC and brakes with no loss of comfort and versatility.
Meanwhile, the GT employs new technologies specially developed by Renaultsport, including Multi Change Down, which enables rapid downshifting, and Launch Control for super-swift getaways from a standing start.
