Renault Megane Coupe Renaultsport 265 3dr Car Review - June 2013

REVIEW
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List Price: £26,745
Tax Band: H
Insurance Group: 36
MPG: 37.7
CO2: 174
0-62 Mph: 6.0 secs
BHP: 265 BHP
Range: 498 miles
CarSite Verdict:  0/5
Like all good hot hatchbacks this version of the Megane Coupe delivers sports car performance in a fairly practical package, and the driving experience with this car is absolutely sensational fun, whether you're on the curves of an A road or actually on the track. The two litre turbocharged petrol engine in this model may not be the most environmentally friendly or the cheapest engine in the Megane Coupe range, but it helps to provide a car that is affordable and amazing fun.

PROS:  This version of the Megane Coupe has power to burn, and handles very well making it a true joy to drive quickly, while it is also supplied with a good level of equipment for the price.

CONS:  While the firm ride may make it an excellent car to drive, it may not be to everyone's taste, particularly for those with families, while the rear of the car is also quite confined.

Behind the Wheel

While there are many hot hatchbacks that claim to offer sports car performance, the Renaultsport 265 version of the car truly delivers, with blistering acceleration from 0-62mph in just 6.0 seconds. The top speed of 158mph is also on a par with many accomplished sports cars, and similarly to the Clio versions, Renaultsport has taken the Megane Coupe and turned it into an amazing driving machine. Handling is superb with pinpoint steering and excellent stability, and while the ride may be firm, it is also tremendous for the driver.

The sports seats that are supplied with this car are very good for providing support and keeping the driver in position, while it also enjoys height and reach adjustment along with the steering to make choosing the right driving position simple. When you are giving the engine a workout it is certainly audible within the cabin, but when cruising along on the motorway it is actually quite tame, and the cabin is relatively refined.

Looks & Equipment

The Megane Coupe is already an attractive car, but this version adds a lower driving position and several sporty touches to give the car a wonderful bold look that makes it clear that this is no standard Megane. The black contrast trim around the grille and air intake along with the curving headlight clusters give the car a dynamic feel, while a central chrome exhaust and sporty spoiler help to add to the stylish back end of the car too. The black alloy wheels are a very nice touch to the car itself, while the distinctive leather steering wheel and gear-stick are also classy touches.

The standard level of equipment included with this sporty version of the Megane Coupe is very nice, with air conditioning helping to keep the cabin at a nice temperature, while cruise control makes it practical for everyday driving too. The car comes with front and rear parking sensors, and also has a rear parking camera, which is particularly useful as rear visibility in the Megane Coupe is not the best.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

The rear seats in the Megane Coupe are useful for short journeys, but any adults spending time in the back on a longer journey may find the limited legroom and headroom to be a bit of an issue. The boot however is of a reasonable size, and those back seats do fold forward when you need to carry a larger load, or need additional luggage space.

There is a good range of air bags in the Megane Coupe that help to look after driver and passengers alike, while it also enjoys a good range of driving aids including brake assist, stability control and understeer control, which all helped the car get five stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests. Unfortunately Renault doesn't enjoy the best record when it comes to reliability, but the support offered in the warranty and breakdown package is reassuring for drivers.

Value for Money

The list price of this version of the Megane Coupe is a fairly hefty £26,445, but when compared with many of its rivals such as the Golf GTI it is actually marginally cheaper. The running costs for the 2.0 litre petrol engine are reasonable rather than impressive considering the performance of the Renaultsport tuned engine, offering an average 37.7mpg. High insurance and road tax groups also mean that keeping the car on the road is a fairly expensive business.

The after sales package that is offered by Renault is a plus point for the car, with a warranty that lasts for four years or a hundred thousand miles, and the car also enjoys roadside breakdown assistance for the first four years. It also comes with free servicing for the first four years, which is a nice addition to the overall package on offer.

Renault Megane Coupe Renaultsport 265 3dr Car Review - by 
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