2016 Renault Megane hatchback pictures

Renault will be hoping the new Megane is good enough to attract buyers away from strong rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, SEAT Leon and new Vauxhall Astra.

The new Megane is arguably the boldest incarnation of the car ever and looks just as striking in the metal.

The GT model, seen here on the right, will have a 202bhp petrol engine and four-wheel steering.

Renault says designing the LED clusters to span almost the whole of the rear of the car increases the perception of width.

The new Megane is based on the same platform as the Nissan Qashqai, Renault Kadjar and Nissan Pulsar.

This generation of Megane is slightly bigger than its predecessor, being both wider and 65mm longer.

The new Megane is available in six different trims called Expression+, Dynamique Nav, Dynamique S Nav, Signature Nav, GT-Line Nav and GT Nav.

All Meganes have USB connectivity, a 12-volt power supply and a height-adjustable driver’s seat, as well as LED daytime running lights, DAB radio and tinted windows.

The higher spec trim levels bring buyers a choice of 17 or 18-inch alloy wheels.

The engine range will consist of six engines in total at launch, made up of three diesels and three petrols.

The range-topping GT model has larger front air intakes and a black mesh grille at the front.

The GT has a launch-control system and its dual-clutch gearbox can change down several gears at once.

The GT model features trapezoidal exhaust pipes integrated with the rear bumper and unique 18-inch alloy wheels.

The GT also has Renault’s 4Control four-wheel steering system, which Renault says results in "precise, dynamic handling on twisty roads."

The GT comes with a 202bhp 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, making it the fastest model at launch.