X64 Megane Cabriolet

RENAULT’S 2001 rebirth in Australia included a low-volume four-seater two-door convertible based on the 1996 X64 Megane hatchback-derived coupe – both of which we never saw locally.

So the X65 Megane Cabriolet, as it was christened, was an old car by the time sales started in May 2001.

In fact much of its platform was a carryover from the 1988 Renault R19 – a frumpy front-wheel drive small car sold here between 1990 and 1996.

Two models were offered here, both powered by a 79kW/148Nm 1.6-litre twin-cam 16-valve four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox.

The ‘Expression’ model arrived first, followed by a costlier ‘Privilege’ edition, released here in June ’03.

The latter added a trip computer, adjustable head restraints, colour-coded rear licence plate surround, illuminated vanity mirrors and seat-back map pockets to the standard electrically operated cloth roof, dual front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes with EBD, air-conditioning and power windows.