The Renault redesigned (images of the overseas
model are above) Megane, details of which were announced recently,
is a more conservative design than its 'shakin yer ass' predecessor
but there are enough curves and metalwork flourishes to distinguish
it from the very conservative new Golf, one of many against
which it competes in the hard-fought European C-sector. Specifications
and launch dates in 2010 for an Australian Model are yet to
be confirmed.
A new interior follows the lines established
by the redesigned Clio and Laguna but adds combined analogue/digital
instruments incorporating a new, easier to read colour-coded
cruise control/speed limiter interface.
Available equipment includes hands-free entry
and ignition, automatic locking as the driver walks away from
the car, a Carminat Bluetooth DVD navigation system,
a custom-developed audio system by Arkamys and electric park
brake.
A broad, extensively revised range of 'dCi'
and 'TCe' engines includes four diesels with CO2 emissions of
120g/km or less. Safety equipment includes double side impact
sensors and dual-chamber airbags, first seen on the latest
Laguna, aimed at minimising the effects of a side-on collision.
Renault has promised that by 2010, six different
models, "each of which will have its own distinct and
assertive personality". These six models have been designed
mainly for customers in Europe and will be manufactured in
Palencia (Spain) and Douai (France). Other models will be
sold outside Europe modified to suit local demands.
The previous dCi 85 and dCi 105 diesel engines
have been joined by the dCi 90, the particulate filter-equipped
dCi 110 - all with CO2 emissions under 120g - and there is
also a new dCi with emissions of 135g/km. Coming later is
a dCi 160 with manual gearbox and dCi 150 with automatic
transmission.
Depending on market, the petrol range will
comprise the 1.6 16V 100hp and 110hp engines, as well as the
2.0 16V 140hp and the TCe 180. The 2.0 16V will be available
from launch with a six-speed manual gearbox, while continuously
variable transmission (now a staple of Alliance partner Nissan)
will be introduced later date.
A new TCe 130 petrol engine will be added
next spring. This was developed by the Alliance and is a new,
fuel-efficient 1,397cc unit said to have the power of a 1.8-litre
engine (130hp) and the torque of a two-litre (190Nm) with
CO2 emissions less than those of a 1.6. Depending on version,
these engines can be mated to five- or six-speed manual or
automatic transmissions. Biofuel-compatible engines (bioethanol
and biodiesel) will also be offered.
Despite being bigger and roomier, the new
Mégane is an average 8kg lighter than its predecessor.
The third generation Megane comes after worldwide sales of
the first two of almost 8.5m units since launch in 1995. The
outgoing model is made on three continents (Europe, South
America and Asia) in nine factories, and sold in more than
75 countries outside western Europe.
A concept coupe has already been shown at
European motor shows. The current Megane line includes three-and
five-door hatchbacks, sedan, wagon, coupe-cabriolet and short
and long Scenic MPVs.
