THE previous Megane hatch combined audacious styling with arguably premium pricing but never succeeded in mounting a sales challenge to rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf or Mazda3. , , The new generation Megane has more mainstream lines, keener pricing and more standard equipment. Prices range from $22,990 for the six-speed manual Dynamique to $29,990 for the Privilege CVT. , , Along with the Fluence sedan (which replaces the Megane four-door), this car forms the main thrust in Renault Australia’s third re-launch in 15 years. , , At launch all variants employ a 2.0-litre petrol engine but a diesel is in the wings. Strong safety credentials, what Renault Australia calls ‘benchmark quality’, driver appeal, a high level of kit and sharp pricing make this Megane more competitive. , , But for it to be successful in one of the fiercest segments in the market, new managing director Justin Hocevar’s big plans will have to fall into place.