Renault Megane GT Line road test
by Stephen Walker
7th April, 2014
Home >
Road Tests >
Renault
Related stories:
Renault release
revitalised Mégane range
19th July, 2013
Renault introduce
"Capped Price" servicing
31st January, 2013
Last year Renault boosted their Australian sales to 7,016 units.
The Megane range, which contributed 1,242 sales to that total, is a major plank in the local line-up.
The revision to the Megane line-up last year included the introduction of a mighty fine mid-spec addition to the range.
This mid-line model, known as GT Line, includes valued additions to provide comfort and convenience. Also new - a wagon,
which arrives in three versions namely Dynamique, GT Line and the very sporty GT 220 Sportwagon.
Other models in the Renault range include Clio, the commercial vehicle models and the Korean-made Koleos, Fluence and
Latitude.
Test Car particulars
On this occasion, the test car was the new wagon version of the Renault Megane GT Line fitted with a petrol-engine and
an automatic (CVT) transmission together with the optional Premium Pack.
The highlight of the test car was the very nicely presented interior - courtesy in part to the Premium Pack.
The Premium Pack features:
- Panoramic sunroof
- Front and rear parking sensors with camera
- Rear armrest with 2 cup holders
- Cool grey leather seats with grey seat belts
- Heated and height adjustable front seats
- Dashboard with grey trim
- Visio System (Lane departure warning & automatic high and low beam)
Prices*
Renault Megane wagons are priced from a competitive $24,990** drive-away for a petrol/CVT Dynamique, whilst the Megane
GT Line with petrol/CVT and Premium Pack is currently priced at an exceptionally pleasing $30,490** drive-away.
Metallic paint is optional at $800*.
On the road in the Megane (petrol/CVT)
The factory indicate the 2-litre petrol wagon covers 0-100 km/h in 10.6 seconds. It seemed a little better than that
because we were always satisfied with the performance during our urban driving experience.
The smoothness, the low noise level and the full range of influences in the driving dynamics department make for a
very pleasing driving experience. Although our driving time was confined to suburban areas we are well aware that the
type of qualities that are evident in the Megane wagon are exactly what are required to enjoy driving a small car on the
highways and freeways that motorists encounter from time to time.
The comfort level in the GT Line with Premium Pack was exceptionally good. The bolsters upfront made the seating even
more pleasing. Renault are to be praised for lifting the comfort level for mid-spec small European wagons.
Specifications
The front-wheel drive Megane GT Line test car had a petrol-fuelled 2-litre four-cylinder engine. Power is 103kW at
6,000rpm and maximum torque is 195Nm at 3,750rpm. The engine meets Euro5 emission standards.
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) was fitted to the test car. It acts similar to an automatic transmission and
this type of transmission is quite popular amongst popular mainstream models from numerous manufacturers.
Braking is by disc brakes at each wheel.
The suspension is by Macpherson struts at the front with a torsion beam axle at the rear.
Four 17" alloy wheels come with the GT Line wagon, together with an emergency spare wheel.
Electric variable power steering is standard. Turning circle is a fraction under 11 metres - which is good.
Fuel
Although premium 95RON petrol is recommended, the Megane petrol engines quite OK on 91RON unleaded petrol.
The factory indicate the fuel consumption rating is 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined cycle.
Urban cycle consumption rating of 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres is a more appropriate figure to consider for strictly
urban usage.
The fuel tank capacity is 60 litres.
Safety
Six airbags; Anti-lock Braking System (ABS); Electronic Stability Control (ESC); Electronic Brake Assist (EBA);
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) are amongst the standard equipment on the Megane GT Line.
EuroNCAP rated the 2008 Megane hatchback with five stars for crash worthiness.
Importantly, a reversing camera is fitted to assist in reversing manoeuvres with the GT Line Premium Pack.
Connectivity/Infotainment/Navigation
Standard in the Megane GT Line wagon:
- 4 speaker/ 2 tweeter audio system with AM/FM, single CD, MP3, auxiliary and USB input with fingertip controls
- Bluetooth® with audio streaming (confirm compatibility)
- Integrated Satellite Navigation system with 7" screen, 2D/3D (bird's eye) maps, turn by turn instructions and SD card
for easy map updates
Dimensions (wagon)
Length: 4,567 mm
Width: 1,804 mm (excluding external mirrors)
Width: 2,037 mm (including external mirrors)
Height: 1,494 mm (unladen - tailgate closed)
Height: 2,019 mm (unladen - tailgate open)
Wheelbase: 2,703 mm
Kerb weight: 1,446 kg (approx).
Towing (wagon)
A braked trailer weighing up 1,300 kg is OK for the Megane petrol/CVT wagon with suitable towing equipment. An
unbraked trailer needs to be limited to 715kg.
Maximum tow ball download is 75kg.
After Sales
Renault Megane GT Line wagon has a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty (conditions apply).
Roadside assistance is included for Megane (again, conditions apply).
Capped price servicing applies with the Megane GT Line (conditions apply).
Conclusion
Very nice.
To expand on that statement let me say that I found the Renault Megane GT Line wagon fitted with the Premium Pack to
be an exceptionally pleasing car to experience.
Renault haven't asked me how they could improve it. Just as well because I could offer no suggestion on how this car
could be improved. As I said, the test car was very nice. Very, very nice actually.
NOTE:
* Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) excludes dealer delivery
fees and the numerous statutory charges (commonly known as on-road costs).
** Drive-away pricing may vary from driver to driver, location to location and dealer to dealer.
Additionally, please note that all prices, fees and charges are subject to change without notice, as are the
specifications.
E&OE
More Renault News .....
here
Top of page
| 
