Renault Megane Expression 1.6 16v 100 5dr Car Review - March 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £15,690
Tax Band: G
Insurance Group: 13
MPG: 41.5
CO2: 159
0-62 Mph: 10.9 secs
BHP: 100 BHP
Range: 548 miles
CarSite Verdict:  3.5/5
If you are in the market for a cheap entry level medium sized family hatchback the Renault Megane Expression 1.6 16v 100 five door is an ideal choice but if your pocket can stretch an extra few hundred quid there are better options out there, like higher spec Meganes or class rivals like a Ford Focus or Volkswagen Golf.

The1600cc engine is smooth and elegant and does not become excessively noisy unless you are travelling at motorway speeds. The entry level Megan offers 41.5 mpg which compares well with rivals.

PROS:  This third generation Megane is a vast improvement in the looks department over its predecessor. Starting at £15.590 the entry level Megane is good value for money.

CONS:  Lifeless steering and vague handling will not make this car an exciting drive. There is a lack of rear-cabin leg and headroom compared to rivals.

Behind the Wheel

The 1598cc 16-valve engine gives 100bhp and 5,500 rpm and 109 lb of torque at 4250 rpm. The car boasts a top speed of 118mph and can reach 62mph in 10.9 seconds. The 60 litre fuel tank, combined with the 41.4mpg ensures high mileage between each visit to the garage forecourt.

The handling of the Megane is ok but the steering leaves a little to be desired in terms of feedback, and does not make for the most exciting of driving experiences. On a positive note, refinement is fairly good and the car absorbs most bumps and road imperfections pretty well.

Looks & Equipment

The current model Megane is far better looking than the previous version that caused controversy in design circles with its rear “big bum” look. However the front end could have done with a few tweeks too.

Standard in-car equipment goes beyond the usual CD player and the Megane Impression is fitted with MP3 connectivity, and also features air conditioning.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

For a bottom of the range, entry level car, the Renault Megane Expression 1.6 16v offers an impressive range of standard equipment. Safety features include driver, passenger and side impact airbags and air conditioning. It is fitted with an immobiliser and alarm.

While listed to seat five adults, a long journey may not be so enticing in this medium family hatch however there should be no such concerns for the parents of small children.

The ample 372-litre boot will swallow most family holiday requirements and those looking for extra load space will be impressed that this figure is nearly trebled when the rear seats are lowered.

Value for Money

There is no doubt that the Renault Megane Expression 1.6 16valve offers exceptional value for money for those on a tight budget looking for a small family hatchback. It would also make an ideal choice for first time buyers.

It is a great model for long-term ownership and the three-year, 100,000 mile warranty and servicing intervals of 18,000 miles ensure reliability and peace of mind.

Insurance group 13 and tax rating G add to its value for money and it is a vehicle that won’t break the bank to run. It carries a C02 emissions rating of 150g/km.

Renault Megane Expression 1.6 16v 100 5dr Car Review - by 
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Medium Family Alternatives

You might want to read reviews for other Medium Family cars that you can then compare to the Renault Megane. Here are some popular Renault Megane alternatives:

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