Renault Megane hatchback (2008-2016) - Interior & comfort
The Megane is comfortable to drive, but space in the back is a little cramped The Renault Megane is comfortable to drive and standard equipment is impressive
As part of the 2013 facelift, Renault tried to improve the interior of the Megane. It looks smart enough, but ultimately it's not as well built as the Volkswagen Golf. Renault has given the Megane a soft suspension setup and it does a good job of smoothing out bumps in the road. That’s not true for the GT model, however, as it gets stiffer suspension for a sportier drive. An annoying wind whistle at higher speeds means that the Megane loses out for motorway comfort.
Renault Megane dashboard
Getting comfortable is easy thanks to a steering wheel that adjusts for rake and reach, and a driver’s seat that can be fine-tuned for height. The quality of the interior does feel like it’s been improved and it’s nice and easy to read the dash displays – but some hard plastics do remain here and there.
All controls are easy to reach, but the switches that operate the sat nav (if fitted) are a little fiddly and may take a while to get used to. We prefer the Ford Focus in this respect – its eight-inch touchscreen is easier to use and has a lot of intuitive touches.
Renault Megane equipment
All Renault Meganes are very well equipped. Even the basic Expression+ model has air-conditioning, a Bluetooth phone connection, automatic door locking and cruise control.
The Limited is based on the Expression+ model and is only available with some engines. It aims to bring a little top-of-the-range sporty glamour for Expression+ prices. It has a bodykit similar to the GT Line Nav models, along with rear privacy glass, 16-inch dark chrome alloy wheels and some funky metallic paint options.
The Dynamique TomTom model adds to the Expression+ kit list with climate control, sat nav and 16-inch alloys, as well as automatic headlights and wipers. Top-of-the-range GT Line Nav models have sat nav, rear parking sensors, a sporty bodykit and an upgraded stereo.
Renault Megane options
Expression+ and Limited models can be fitted with the TomTom sat nav that comes as standard on higher-spec models. Models fitted with the TomTom can get a subscription to TomTom Live Services, which costs £150.
A basic stereo with Bluetooth, MP3 player and USB connectivity is standard on the Expression+, but if you fancy DAB digital radio, it’ll cost £240. A couple of bodykit options are available to make your car look sportier, and inside you can choose leather upholstery and heated seats.