The long-awaited new generation
Renault Megane is almost here. The
French brand's best-seller will be officially presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week and hits the market in early 2016. The first official images confirm the similarities of the new model with the newly unveiled
Espace and
Talisman.
Compared with the previous generation, the new Megane is 25mm lower, has a wheelbase 28mm longer and has wider front and rear axles. The length should be around 4.4m (value was not disclosed by Renault) and the adopted design is softer and more premium style than models further down the range, such as
Clio,
Twingo or
Captur, characterized by a bolder and more stylized design.
While developing the new generation Renault felt the need to bring the Megane upmarket in order to compete directly with models such as the
Volkswagen Golf or
Peugeot 308. The new Megane shares the same Renault-Nissan CMF platform used in the
Nissan Qashqai and Renault Kadjar.
Given the new market strategy for the Megane, Renault will invest in a more sophisticated interior, using superior quality plastics and a more careful design, with many vehicle functions to be transferred to a large central touch screen.
The new Megane will be marketed in
five-door and estate variants, however it is not yet confirmed whether the range will include a three-door coupe model. However, Renault intends to give the model sporting credentials with the introduction of the
Megane GT which features redesigned bumpers with larger air intakes and a rear spoiler. It is equipped with 18-inch wheels and receives Renaultsport badging.
Data is yet to be disclosed on the engines that will be part of the new Megane range. This information should be known during the presentation of the new generation at the Frankfurt Motor Show.