98 Renault Megane: dull cabin inside mars better-looking model

Renault seemed to have pulled out all the stops to recreate the Megane following the disappointments of the previous model.

Whereas the old Megane was plain, this one with its massive badge front and centre, C-shaped daytime running lights and general sense of pleasant chunkiness is a far better-looking machine.

What a shame then that they decided to stick such a plain, grey cabin inside. Unless you spend a small fortune to spec it up with the biggest possible portrait-style touchscreen, the dashboard just screams “generic rental car” with its acres of unadorned plastic and insipid digital instruments.

On the plus side, the long-serving 1.5 dCi diesel engine is still a good thing, with excellent economy and in terms of refinement and comfort the Megane sits right at the top of the hatchback class.

Its handling isn’t great though – the steering is too light and detached and on really challenging roads it just runs out of ideas and clatters into the bump-stops. The forthcoming “Gran Coupe” model is actually a four-door saloon, but quite a handsome one.

Price range: €19,490 to €30,690

Co2 emissions: 96 to 134g/km

Which one? 1.5 dCi 110hp GT-Line

PCP from €189 per month