You can always tell how a car is going to do in a particular market based on the first reviews. For example, the Ford Fiesta, BMW 3 Series, and Nissan Qashqai were touched by God, according to the Brits. Based on its lukewarm welcome, the all-new Renault Megane is going to do well but not great.
Renault UK's embargo on the Megane hatchback reviews lifted moments ago and we have the first two from prominent websites. Mat Watson's take is our favorite because he made it a little funnier and more involving, plus he really discussed all the major flaws of the car.
We've said time and time again that this is the most beautiful compact car right now, and Mat seems to agree, comparing the old one to Megan Griffin and the 2016 model to Megan Fox. Of course, it's a tad overdone, just like the Hollywood equivalent, but some people like that.
While a Megane with all the gadgets is cool, one without them isn't. For example, the portrait-style center screen is available only on higher trim levels, and even then the cheap-feeling pleather won't let you feel like you've bought premium goods.
Regarding the issue of the squishy controls and unimpressive gearboxes, we're on the same page. However, Renault has done well with this configuration for many years, and some people just prefer to feel nothing at all while driving.
Practicality is, apparently, not a major selling point of the new Megane either. In theory, the trunk is large enough, but the awkward shape and lack of clever hooks may lead you to think Renault paid no attention at all.
We stick by our initial judgment that the new Megane is the type of car that's best enjoyed in the top GT trim level with a 1.6-liter turbo, all-wheel steering, and Alcantara leather interior. It's expensive, but if you want a cheap runabout, you are looking in the wrong place anyway.
We've said time and time again that this is the most beautiful compact car right now, and Mat seems to agree, comparing the old one to Megan Griffin and the 2016 model to Megan Fox. Of course, it's a tad overdone, just like the Hollywood equivalent, but some people like that.
While a Megane with all the gadgets is cool, one without them isn't. For example, the portrait-style center screen is available only on higher trim levels, and even then the cheap-feeling pleather won't let you feel like you've bought premium goods.
Regarding the issue of the squishy controls and unimpressive gearboxes, we're on the same page. However, Renault has done well with this configuration for many years, and some people just prefer to feel nothing at all while driving.
Practicality is, apparently, not a major selling point of the new Megane either. In theory, the trunk is large enough, but the awkward shape and lack of clever hooks may lead you to think Renault paid no attention at all.
We stick by our initial judgment that the new Megane is the type of car that's best enjoyed in the top GT trim level with a 1.6-liter turbo, all-wheel steering, and Alcantara leather interior. It's expensive, but if you want a cheap runabout, you are looking in the wrong place anyway.