Renault reveals Megane pricing and spec

RENAULT Australia has detailed pricing and specification for its new Megane hatch ahead of its showroom debut next week, with the fourth-generation model maintaining similar pricing to its predecessor.

The four-variant line-up starts with the base Life from $22,490 plus on-road costs in six-speed manual guise, which is a shade under $500 more than the outgoing entry-level Authentique.

Opting for the Life with the seven-speed Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) transmission increases the price by $2500 to $24,990.

The auto-only Zen effectively replaces the mid-spec GT-Line and is priced at $27,490, while the new GT-Line takes the place of the old GT-Line Premium at $32,490.

Topping the new range is the spicy GT from $38,490 that replaces the GT220 warm hatch.

In terms of rivals, the Megane is about on par with the likes of the Volkswagen Golf that starts at $22,840, the $20,490-$33,490 Mazda3 and Ford’s $23,390-$38,990 Focus.

All Life, Zen and GT-Line variants are powered by Renault’s 97kW/205Nm TCe130 turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine.

When matched with the manual gearbox, the Megane consumes just 5.5 litres per 100km on the combined cycle while emitting 124g/km of CO2. The dual-clutch delivers fuel use of 5.6L/100km and CO2 emissions of 125g/km.

As previously reported, Renault will not be offering the new-gen Megane with a diesel engine.

Acting as the range’s performance variant until the arrival of the full-fat RS versions, possibly in 2018, the GT uses a 151kW/280Nm turbocharged 1.6-litre TCe205 four-pot developed by Renault Sport.

It is matched exclusively with the dual-clutch and consumes 6.0L/100km and emits 134g/km. The GT is fitted with Renault’s 4Control four-wheel steering system the company says makes for added “dynamism and precision on tight, twisty roads,” while the Renault Sport-engineered suspension helps ensure a sporty driving experience.

Standard gear in the base Life includes the Renault smart keycard, reversing camera and rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring, a full-size temporary spare wheel, 16-inch steel wheels, LED daytime running lights, auto headlights and wipers, dual-zone climate control, leather steering wheel, cloth trim, the R-Link2 multimedia system with a 7.0-inch touchscreen, digital radio, two USB ports, an auxiliary jack and two 12V power outlets.

Moving up to the Zen adds ‘Edge’ LED daytime running lights, 16-inch alloy wheels, sat-nav included in R-Link2, front parking sensors, an electric parking brake and an optional Electric Sunroof Pack that includes an electric sunroof, sun visor with a light and auto-dimming interior mirror.

GT-Line gains a blind-spot warning, side parking sensors, park assist, an electric sunroof, power heated mirrors, Alcantara leather-trimmed upholstery, Nappa leather steering wheel and gear shifter, heated front seats, rear privacy glass. 17-inch alloys, a 7.0-inch colour TFT instrument panel, Multi-Sense system with five driving modes and an optional Premium Pack that ups the touchscreen to 8.7 inches as well as adding LED headlights and a Bose stereo.

Flagship GT variants are offered with launch control, dual chrome exhaust pipes, RS badging, a GT bumper and rear diffuser, a Sport mode button with RS Drive, configurable sound engine, RS-style paddle shifters, alloy pedals, blue highlights on the Alcantara leather-trimmed upholstery, Magny Cours 18-inch alloys and the optional Premium Pack.

Metallic paint is a $600 option.

Renault Australia managing director Justin Hocevar said he was delighted to announce pricing for the new Megane that forms part of the car-maker’s refreshed Australian line-up.

“It joins our recently launched Koleos medium SUV, ensuring Renault has all-new players in two of the most competitive segments,” he said. “Along with Clio and Captur, Renault has one of the freshest passenger line-ups in Australia.

“The all-new Megane offers something for everyone, with each variant infused with Renault’s award-winning global design ethos. Its array of sophisticated technology is usually seen in more prestige vehicles and we are confident the all-new Megane will be a hit with Australians seeking superior levels of style, refinement and driving dynamics, all packaged at a highly competitive value proposition.”

The wagon and sedan body styles will also be offered in Australia but will not arrive until next year.

2016 Renault Megane pricing*

Life	$22,490
Life (a)	$24,990
Zen (a)	$27,490
GT-Line (a)	$32,490
GT (a)	$38,490

*Excludes on-road costs