Renault Megane Hatchback (08 on) - Review

Three trim levels are available - Expression, Dynamique and GT Line, which replaces the Privilege specification. Renault Megane equipment is pretty exhaustive even on the entry level models. Expression offers a radio CD audio system with fingertip remote control and aux-in, air con, double optic headlights with see-me-home function, electrically adjustable and heated, body coloured door mirrors, height-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment, lumbar support adjustment in driver’s seat, height and reach-adjustable steering wheel, automatic door-locking above 5mph, electric front windows, rear electric windows, front fog lights, 60:40 split-folding rear seats. Dynamique adds Bluetooth connectivity, 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, sat-nav, height-adjustable passenger seat, leather steering wheel and cruise control and speed limiter. Lower-powered GT Line models add a sports chassis, 17-inch or alloy wheels, GT front bumper with fog lamp recesses, a coloured rear diffuser, coloured door mirror housings, aluminium pedals, analogue dials with white rev counter background, Renaultsport 250-specification seats with additional lateral support, GT upholstery, dark charcoal interior trim with polished carbon highlights, GT exterior and interior badging, rear parking sensors, dual zone climate control, electrically operated door mirrors with folding function electrochrome rear view mirror. Higher-powered GT Line models get 18-inch alloys, Renaultsport 250-style leather-trimmed steering wheel, Renaultsport-tuned chassis. Other Renault Megane accessories that can be ordered as optional extras include leather upholstery, heated and electrically adjustable seats and audio upgrades. The integrated Tom Tom sat-nav available on Dynamique and GT Line versions can be ordered as an option on Expression models. The latest version of the system incorporates a range of real-time services that can be ordered for a free three-month trial period and then an annual subscription. The sat-nav traffic information is updated every three minutes so drivers can adjust their route accordingly. The system is able to warn drivers the extent of jams ahead and the likely delay. Renault claims it can reduce journey times by 15%. Other features include speed camera warning, a local search with points of interest as well as five-day weather forecasts. Megane owners can also order the World Series by Renault kit that adds tailor-made front, side and rear skirts and a Coupé-style front grille trim. A body kit with front, side and rear skirts, plus central exhaust section and a rear spoiler can also be ordered as an option. In 2012 Renault added more kit to the top-of-the-range GT Line trim. Changes to this model include LED daytime running lights, a gloss black bumper with chrome highlights, auto parking brake with Hill Start assist, parking camera with rear parking sensors and Renaultsport decals. Inside, it's a little smarter, and if you want you can opt for a new two-tone leather pack. All radios are now equipped with Bluetooth connectivity and there are USB sockets so you can play your MP3 player through the entertainment system.