Aimed right at the Volkswagen Golf, the Megane compact has been one of the best-selling members of the Renault lineup for nearly two decades. The fourth-gen model gets a more evocative front end that’s characterized by sharp headlights, LED daytime running lights that stretch well into the bumper and a four-slat radiator grille with an oversized Renault emblem.
The design is noticeably inspired by the Talisman, a Passat-fighting sedan that will also be presented in Frankfurt next week. The Megane is lower and slightly wider than the current model, but its overall proportions don’t change drastically.
Renault will introduce its newest compact as a four-door hatchback. A station wagon will follow shortly after, but whether the two-door hatchback and the convertible variants will be replaced is anyone’s guess at this point. The segments they compete in are steadily shrinking, and Renault’s competitors have been progressively axing compact two-door hatchbacks and convertibles over the past few years.
Technical details haven’t been announced yet, but it’s safe to bet the Megane will launch with three- and four-cylinder gasoline- and diesel-burning engines borrowed from the Renault-Nissan parts bin. A more aggressive-looking GT model will sit at the top of the range until a full-blown Renaultsport-tuned model is launched.
The all-new Renault Megane will go on sale across Europe and in a host of other global markets before the end of the year. Pricing information will be published in the weeks leading up to its on-sale date.
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