Renault Megane Dynamique

As the name suggests, the Renault Megane Dynamique TomTom comes with built-in sat nav. Also standard in the Megane hatchback are 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights and wipers, climate control, LED daytime running lamps, keyless go and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

There is a choice of four engines, kicking off with the entry-level 109bhp 1.6-litre petrol that averages 40.9mpg. A wiser investment might be the 113bhp 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which offers more power from low revs and far better fuel consumption of 53.3mpg.

If you rack up high mileages on a regular basis, the diesel make more sense – there’s the choice of two - a 109bhp 1.5-litre that averages an impressive 80.7mpg, and a more powerful 128bhp 1.6-litre that still returns 70.6mpg.

Good points

In a competitive class, the Megane has to be special to stand out and, to some extent it does. It’s a good value all-rounder that, instead of focusing on beating the class leaders in the driving department, concentrates its efforts on being more comfort orientated.We suggest you avoid the Renault Megane GT-Line model, as that car has stiffer suspension for a sportier drive, which harms comfort.The Renault Megane also remains a practical choice with a large boot and one that should be cheap to run thanks to engines like the 1.5-litre dCi diesel that can average over 80mpg. Factor in the free servicing and long warranty and its easy to make a good case for the French hatchback.

Bad points

It might be comfortable over lumps and bumps, but those who like to drive for fun will crave the responsive steering a Ford Focus or Volkswagen Golf delivers.The 109bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine is best avoided as it feels sluggish, while the turbocharged 1.2-litre is much more lively and offers lower running costs.Quality is also a weak point compared to the VW Golf or SEAT Leon, especially where the TomTom built-in sat nav is fitted – looking like an afterthought and feeling a little crude to use.The Renault Megane also doesn’t hold its value like a Volkswagen Golf, so make sure you to remember to haggle on price if buying new.

What you get

• Alloy wheels
• Folding rear seats
• Passenger & Driver airbag
• Front side airbags
• Curtain airbags
• Front fog lights
• Manual air conditioning
• Auto climate control
• Leather steering wheel
• Height adjustable driver's seat
• Front electric windows
• Single CD player
• Cruise control
• Sat nav
• Automatic wipers
• Rear electric windows
• Bluetooth

Recommended optional extras

• Metallic paint
• Parking sensors
• Height adjustable seats

Our choice

The sweet spot in the Renault Megane range is the 1.2-litre TCe turbocharged petrol engine, which feels smooth but fast, while also returning 53mpg.