By
EWAN KENNEDY
3 July 2006
Renault has long been one of the leaders in the safety field so it
comes as no surprise that the latest version of its mid-size Megane
range has a strong emphasis in that direction. Amongst many other safety
features, the complete range now comes with the life-saving potential of
ESP (Electronic Stability Program) in every model in the range.
This system assists drivers to get out of
tight spots created either by someone else’s mistakes or, perhaps, by
their own inattention. There isn’t space to go into a full technical
description here, but basically the systems senses that a car is
swerving from its intended path and helps to put it back on course by
braking one of the wheels to control either oversteer or understeer.
We have done some skid pan testing of the
new setup at the Mount Cotton driver training centre near Brisbane and
can report the Megane is able to control itself very competently in the
typical swerve and recover situation caused by a vehicle pulling out in
front of yours or stopping very suddenly.
But there's a lot more to the Phase II
Megane than simply helping to save your life (though ‘simply’ is
probably not the correct word to use…), its already radical lines have
been further sharpened.
None of the styling changes are major,
but they are surprisingly effective. Modifications to the front bumper
see the foglights spread almost to the extremities of the car, the
radiator grille has sharper features and the headlights and taillights
carry even bolder shapes than before. There are also new wheel or wheel
trim designs depending on which Megane model you choose.
These changes are backed up by new trim
and colour choices in the cabin as well as a sportier design to the
instruments, though the basic layout and shape of the latter remains the
same.
The sportier flair of the Phase II Megane
is there to remind everyone that Renault holds the current Formula One
World Championships for both drivers and constructors. And is so far in
front thus far in the 2006 season that it’s hard to see it losing
either title.
Engines and transmissions remain
unchanged, but there have been revisions to the model lineup as Renault
fine tunes its range to suit Australian tastes.
At this stage there are only petrol
engines, but the importer is looking seriously at turbo-diesel units.
Like all European car makers it uses these economy engines extensively
on its home market, and is now working on the best designs for our local
conditions.
On the road, the Renault Megane Phase II
retains the sharp feel and excellent steering that we have liked so much
from day one. Yet does so without sacrificing comfort in any way. This
is an excellent long distance car that will leave both driver and
passengers feeling fresh after a trip on just about any road surface.
Renault's unusual styling doesn’t
appeal to all, but more and more people are starting to appreciate the
radical lines. Certainly those who have commented in the past that all
cars look the same have had to change their minds. In Phase II format we
anticipate the Renault Megane will really start to make its mark in the
Australian sales race.
The complete Megane range, with prices
(excluding on-road costs), is:
Authentique 1.6-litre five-door hatch:
$25,490 (five-speed manual)
Expression 2.0-litre five-door hatch:
$29,990 (four-speed automatic)
Dynamique 2.0-litre five-door hatch:
$30,990 (six-speed manual), $33,490 (four-speed automatic)
Expression 2.0-litre four-door sedan:
$28,490 (six-speed manual), $30,990 (four-speed automatic)
Privilege 2.0-litre four-door sedan:
$35,990 (four-speed automatic)
Coupe-Cabriolet 2.0-litre two-door
convertible: $48,990 (six-speed manual), $51,490 (four-speed automatic)
