What's new?Some subtle tweaks to the exterior, revised, higher quality interior and a wider choice of engines and options. The 1.9-litre Dci engine is pitched between two other diesels - a new entry-level 106bhp for the coupe-cabriolet and a 2-litre, already tested here in the Laguna, which I didn't enjoy as much as this lusty 1.9, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. The interior feels good, with soft-touch plastics, and deep cord-trimmed seats that offer excellent back support. Outside, changes include a revised front grille, slimmer, tapered headlamps and new rear light clusters.
What are the options?There are five body styles, hatch, sport hatch, sport saloon, sport tourer and coupe-cabriolet with five trim levels - Extreme, Authentique, Expression, Dynamique, and Privilege. The Privilege I drove had loads of top spec bells and whistles, including climate control, smart windscreen wipers, cooled glovebox, leather-bound steering wheel and gearknob, and hands-free card entry, rather than a conventional key. Beam me up Scotty!
Who is it for?With a decent amount of interior space fore and aft and an ample boot, it's a well-thought out family car, with exterior lines that mark it out from the pack, so should appeal to individualists.
What's it like to drive?The turbo-enhanced engine pulls like a train, with loads of mid range torque, while the gearbox is quick and positive. Handling is assured and confidence-inspiring - especially the cornering - while dash layout is clear and logical - all controls falling naturally to hand.
What else do I need to know?If you decide to buy a Megane, you'll have plenty of company as almost 2.4m have been built since its launch in 2002. It was the market leader in its sector for almost three years.
What would make you buy one?An eye for good value for money, as the model range kicks off at not much more than £11,000. But here, VFM doesn't mean a lack of sophistication in areas from technology through to trim. And the on-the-road experience will reward sporty drivers. The 1.9-litre diesel was pretty frugal on fuel, too, so we're back to value-for-money appeal.
Marks out of 10?A mighty eight.
© Copyright 2008 Manchester Evening News. If you wish to use this article for commercial purposes please contact our syndication department.
