Renault Megane Hatchback (06-09) - Review

Review by Ben Wall on
Last Updated: 03 June 2009
The Megane was revised in 2006 to keep things fresh and up-to-date. The looks had scarcely dated since its launch in 2002 so the makeover was rather light. Consequently it's a case of 'spot the difference' between new and old, with exterior changes consisting of different lights front and rear and a new grille and bumpers. There are some changes to the engine line-up too, including more power for some of the diesels and a new 2.0-litre diesel. As before, the Megane's strengths continue to be its generous levels of equipment and dedication to occupant safety. It's comfortable on the move, but offers few thrills from behind the wheel.
3 out of 5

Other Renault reviews

3.5 out of 5

Running costs

There are low insurance groups on most models but the diesels offer the best low cost option as they also retain their used values slightly better than their thirstier petrol counterparts. Comparatively though the Megane does not keep its value very well.

* based on most recent data

Estimated fuel cost for 10,000 miles per year

Unleaded

£1,534 - £1,860 *

Diesel

£1,002 - £1,526 *

The estimated fuel cost figure is a guide to how much this model will cost to fuel each year, so you can compare between cars. It's calculated by using the model's average mpg (calculated from both town centre and motorway driving) and the average fuel price. It's based on the following cost-per-litre: petrol 135p and diesel 141p. Prices are updated daily.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

18,000 miles petrol. 12,000 miles diesel.

Warranty

Three years/60,000 miles.

Road tax (12 months)

£30.00 - £270.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

3.5 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
    117
  • D
  • E
  • F
  • G
  • H
  • I
  • J
  • K
    201
  • L
  • M

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

The Megane performs fairly very well on the eco front. With an average of 157g/km of CO2 across the model line-up, its emissions are relatively low for a small family hatchback. Eco-conscious buyers should consider the 1.5-litre diesel, which is one of the greenest models in the range. The range is impressively frugal, averaging 47 mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2