IN AT least one way the Renault Megane GT has been an unstoppable force in the market since its introduction in late 2016. The warm-to-hot hatchback did not flatten sub-$40,000 rivals in sales volumes, mind, but it did lack the ability to automatically stop itself before an accident occurred.

Thankfully in mid-2017 the French brand updated its flagship hatchback – until the Sriracha-hot Megane RS arrives – with autonomous emergency braking (AEB) plus adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning and automatic up/down high-beam, all of which have been made standard.

The Megane GT finally has the active safety kit to match its sporty swagger, which is an especially good move for this ‘all-rounder’ model grade. Renault promises the GT can be comfortable yet fun, affordable but feature-packed, quick while being economical – and now, both secure and stylish.

So, has this become the Megane to tempt buyers away from other sporty small cars?