The fourth-generation model uses styling from the Talisman replacement to the Laguna that goes on sale in mainland Europe later this year. Key features include the bold logo at the front and the C-shaped headlamps, with the surround carried into the bumper, as well as new taillights.

Based on Renault’s Common Module Family (CMF) vehicle architecture, the new model is 25mm lower and wider than its predecessor, with a wheelbase 28mm longer and a shorter overhang.

Boot capacity of 434 litres is said to be the second largest in the compact car sector while rear passenger space is said to be among the best for the segment. 

The flagship of the new Mégane range at launch will be the Renaultsport-inspired GT, featuring bespoke exterior and interior styling, a 205hp TCe engine mated to a seven-speed EDC dual-clutch transmission, 4Control four-wheel steering and bespoke chassis settings. In 2016 the diesel ENERGY dCi 165 engine, linked to six-speed EDC dual clutch automatic transmission, will also become available in the GT. 

Five other engines will be offered from launch – three ENERGY dCi diesels delivering 90, 110 or 130hp, and two other TCe petrol units with outputs of 100 and 130hp. The EDC dual-clutch automatic transmission will be offered with the dCi 110 (six-speed) and the TCe 130 (seven-speed). 

The economy champion will be the ENERGY dCi 110 diesel engine with a six-speed manual gearbox, which emits 86g/km and has an official combined fuel consumption of 3.3l/100km, ensuring it qualifies for the brand’s ECO2 label, used to highlight the most economical engine in each model range. 

A ‘Hybrid Assist’ diesel will be added early in 2017. With a targeted NEDC cycle figure below 3l/100km and CO2 emissions of 76g/km, subject to homologation. 

Renault’s Multi-Sense technology will also be available and offers a choice of five different driving modes – Sport, Normal, Comfort, Perso and Eco. On the GT version, Eco is replaced by an R.S. Drive mode. 

Technology debuts include a retractable full colour head-up display; a 7-inch colour Thin Film Transistor (TFT) instrument display; and a portrait-format 8.7-inch R-Link 2 touchscreen as an alternative to the landscape 7-inch screen.  

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), controlled through the R-Link 2 tablet, include adaptive cruise control and automated emergency braking; lane departure, safe distance and speed limit warnings, the latter linked to traffic sign recognition; and blind spot monitoring.  A reversing camera, automatic switching between main and dipped headlight beams, hands-free parking and front, rear and side parking aids are also available.