Although a little more expensive initially, 1.9 diesel models are the most frugal choice – with an impressive fuel consumption of up to 60mpg – and owners will benefit financially in the long term on fuel savings. Generally, fuel economy is good throughout the range for a car in this class, offering a decent average fuel return of around 45mpg, though the air conditioning can adversely affect frugality.

Insurance costs are competitive, while servicing tends to be pricey but efficient, though there are a few dissatisfied Renault buyers who have been disappointed with customer service. Megane Scenic is quite well equipped as standard, but is not as robust as modern rivals, due to advancements in safety technology since ’97.

Unfortunately, there are plenty of niggling mechanical faults with earlier cars, including leaky sunroofs, battery problems, broken wiper motors and oil leaks. There are also many reports of interior trim squeaks and rattles, indicating a slightly slap-dash build quality. Also check the correct operation of the Auto gearbox.