2021 Renault Megane Review
Explore the facelifted 2021 Renault Megane's stylish design, advanced tech, and efficient performance in the competitive family hatchback market.
2021 Renault Megane Review: A Stylish Evolution in Family Cars
The 2021 Renault Megane receives a thoughtful facelift that enhances its appeal in the crowded family hatchback segment. This update introduces modern LED lighting, expanded powertrain choices including a plug-in hybrid, and upgraded cabin technology, making it a compelling option for buyers seeking style, efficiency, and practicality.
Exterior Refinements: Sharper Looks and Premium Touches
Renault has given the Megane a more contemporary front end with slim full-LED headlights that provide superior illumination and a distinctive C-shaped daytime running light signature. The redesigned grille and bumper create a bolder stance, while new alloy wheel designs up to 18 inches add flair. At the rear, dynamic scrolling indicators integrated into the LED tail lights enhance visibility and give a premium feel, complemented by a subtly revised bumper.
New paint options, such as the eye-catching Solar Brown, allow for personalization. These changes maintain the Megane’s curvaceous profile and floating roofline, which set it apart from boxier rivals like the Volkswagen Golf or Ford Focus. The overall effect is one of sophistication without aggressive sportiness, appealing to families who value elegance.
Interior Upgrades: Tech-Focused and Driver-Centric
Inside, the 2021 Megane steps up with a standard 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster featuring customizable graphics and views, from navigation maps to performance data. Top trims boast a portrait-oriented 9.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 3D navigation, and voice control. Ambient lighting in multiple colors elevates the mood, while new upholstery options and softer materials improve the premium perception.
However, some hard plastics persist in lower areas, a common critique in this class. Rear passenger space is adequate for adults on shorter trips, though legroom trails longer-wheelbase variants like the Sport Tourer estate. The front seats offer good support, with heated options available.
| Interior Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Driver Display | 10.2-inch digital cluster with Multi-Sense modes |
| Infotainment | 9.3-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone mirroring |
| Seating | 5 seats, supportive fronts, decent rear space |
| Boot Capacity | 384-473 litres (hatch), expandable to 1,258 litres |
Powertrain Options: Efficiency Meets Versatility
The lineup simplifies to key choices: a 138bhp 1.3-litre turbo petrol (TCe 140) delivering 47.1mpg and 136g/km CO2, paired with a six-speed manual. It’s peppy with a 9.4-second 0-62mph sprint but requires revving for best results, lacking the refinement of some competitors.
A standout is the new E-Tech plug-in hybrid, blending a 1.6-litre petrol engine, electric motor, and battery for up to 30 miles of electric-only range. It prioritizes smoothness and low emissions, ideal for company car drivers. Diesel options like the 1.5 dCi remain efficient at around 60mpg.
Multi-Sense modes adjust throttle, steering, and stability: Comfort lightens steering, Sport firms it by 25% with extra torque. The ride balances comfort on motorways with composed cornering, though larger wheels can transmit harshness over potholes.
Practicality and Space: Family-Friendly Dimensions
- Hatchback Boot: 384-473 litres, outperforming Golf (380 litres) and Focus.
- Estate Variant: Sport Tourer offers over 600 litres, perfect for larger loads.
- Folding Seats: 60/40 split for flexible cargo space up to 1,258 litres.
- Saloon Option: Grand Coupé provides boot advantages on a stretched platform.
These figures make the Megane versatile for shopping runs or weekend getaways, with a low load lip easing heavy item access.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Comprehensive Protection
Earning a five-star Euro NCAP rating, the Megane includes autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, and automatic high beams as standard. New Level 2 systems like Highway & Traffic Jam Companion enable hands-free driving in congestion, using adaptive cruise control and lane centering for reduced fatigue.
Additional aids cover blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, positioning it well against safety-focused rivals.
Trims and Pricing: Value in R.S. Line
Streamlined to two main trims: standard and sporty R.S. Line. The TCe 140 R.S. Line starts around £23,495, including 18-inch wheels, sports seats, and LED lights. Higher specs add the PHEV at £32,000+, with tax benefits.
| Model | Price (approx.) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| TCe 140 | £21,000+ | Petrol efficiency, digital dash |
| R.S. Line | £23,495 | Sport styling, advanced tech |
| E-Tech PHEV | £32,785 | Hybrid power, 30-mile EV range |
Driving Dynamics: Balanced but Not Thrilling
On twisty roads, precise steering and stable chassis shine, with good grip from wide tires. It’s refined at speed, suppressing wind and tire noise effectively. The petrol engine buzzes under load, and the dual-clutch EDC auto (on some) shifts smoothly. Fuel economy holds real-world 40-45mpg for petrol, higher for diesel.
Compared to class leaders, it lacks the Golf’s polish or Focus’s agility but excels in comfort and boot space.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
- Pros: Stylish design, generous boot, efficient engines, strong safety kit, competitive pricing.
- Cons: Some interior plastics, rear space average, engine refinement could improve.
Who Should Buy the 2021 Megane?
Ideal for families prioritizing space, tech, and low running costs over outright dynamism. The R.S. Line suits those wanting flair, while the PHEV targets eco-conscious urbanites. It competes well but doesn’t dominate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What engines are available in the 2021 Renault Megane?
Options include 1.3 TCe petrol (140hp), 1.5 dCi diesel, and E-Tech plug-in hybrid with electric range.
How much boot space does it have?
Hatch offers 384-473 litres; estate up to 1,867 litres with seats folded.
Is the 2021 Megane safe?
Yes, five-star Euro NCAP with advanced aids like autonomous braking and Level 2 autonomy.
What’s the fuel economy like?
Petrol: 47.1mpg claimed; diesel higher; PHEV adds EV efficiency.
How does it compare to rivals?
Beats Golf/Focus in boot space, matches on tech, but trails in refinement.
References
- New RENAULT MEGANE 2021 (Facelift) – FULL in-depth REVIEW — YouTube (crospotter13). 2021. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1rTzff6dDA
- New Renault Megane 2021 review — Auto Express. 2021. https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/renault/megane/91283/new-renault-megane-2021-review
- Renault Mégane Review (2021) — Changing Lanes. 2021. https://changinglanes.ie/renault-megane-2021-review/
- Renault Megane E-TECH hybrid (2021-2022) review — DrivingElectric. 2022-07-19. https://www.drivingelectric.com/renault/megane/40785/renault-megane-e-tech-hybrid-review
- 2021 Renault Megane Reviews — CarsGuide. 2021. https://www.carsguide.com.au/renault/megane/reviews/2021
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