Driven: 2016 Renault Megane GT – Design Evaluation

When speaking of the new Megane, Laurens van den Acker stated that “Renault can make cars with a Latin skin and a German heart.” You do not have to be an expert in car design to notice how cool the new Megane is, even in its regular versions. On the other hand, the brand has launched the Megane GT at the same time as the regular model, and the former comes with an even bolder look.

We must note that Renault has no plans of making a three-door Megane so that the upcoming RS performance version will only be offered in a five-door body style. Until then, we focus on the Megane GT, a more sporty proposition in the range, which should make its German competitors (and not just them) tremble in fear of customers that choose with their hearts.

The exterior design of the Megane is courageous, to say the least. You first observe the massive front grille, which hosts a suitably-sized Renault badge. This follows the brand’s design language. The newest features are the C-shaped lights, which have LEDs integrated for a more powerful impression. This lighting element was first introduced in 2015, on the Renault Talisman, but expect to see it in other models from the brand. The front is completed by a muscular hood and a sporty-styled front bumper.

The sides of the new Megane are also muscular, even if we are not talking about the GT version. The doors are sculpted, and the rear ones feature visible handles, a sign that Renault is not trying to fool anyone with a Coupe-look by hiding the handles next to the C-pillars.

The windows are properly sized and feature a tasteful chrome ornament. New rim designs were introduced, and the fenders have been enlarged as if the Megane had visited a gym and focused on that particular aspect.

The rear of the new Megane is equally impressive as the front. Just like on the Talisman, the rear lights have been significantly extended, and they have a striking light signature. The center of the rear hatch hosts the brand’s badge is a size similar to the one on the front grille.

The rear window has been inclined more than on the previous generation for a sportier look. The rear bumper is tastefully designed, and the GT version comes with twin exhaust ornaments that hide regular pipes behind them.

Compared to the previous generation, the new Megane is a stunning work of design. It looks more dynamic than ever, and Volkswagen’s Golf is dull in comparison. The other competitors in the segment are not as compelling as the Megane, but some come close - think of the Mazda3, even though it does not seem as bold as the French hatchback.

The Megane GT looks like it is about to take off, but its sibling is not too modest, either. The coolest part of the new Megane is the fact that the regular model is almost as bold as the GT version, and Renault seems to have made the best choice possible when it hired Mr. Laurens van den Acker, as his vision brought a fresh and determined identity to the French brand.

Some might say that the new Megane looks too fast for its own good, as customers with more traditional expectations might go for a car with a more conventional look. We do not feel this way about the Megane IV, as we approve of bold design propositions when they produce results like this.

Looking at the sketches that were released with the press photos of the new Megane, we are surprised to see so many elements integrated into the production model. Our favorite cues remain the front and rear lights, which we believe should never be touched by any tuner. You cannot improve on this, just let them be. The shape of the hood, along with the front wings mark our second favorites, while the muscular fenders hold the third place in our subjective list of preferences.