When Renault created the Megane nameplate in 1995, it probably didn't know that it will spawn a legendary hot hatch well-loved by automotive fans all over the world.
The primary aim of the hatchback, without doubt, was to vie in the highly competitive humpback segment, against the likes of rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf and the Ford Focus.
Like its rivals, the Megane gave birth to a handful of more colourful variants - such as a Coupe-Cabriolet and the exciting RS three-door hatchback.
Built on the 'C platform' which it shares with fellow compatriot Nissan, it too has genetic links with the Scenic and Koleos, as well as Nissan's Qashqai, X-Trail and Lafesta.
Up close and Personal
Rekindling the fond memories of the RS, the Megane hatch is like your plain Jane next door compared to the prom queen. On a more positive note, the third generation has ditched the predecessor's slightly awkward rear styling for an agreeable, albeit a more conventional look that wouldn't feel out of place in any company.
The primary aim of the hatchback, without doubt, was to vie in the highly competitive humpback segment, against the likes of rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf and the Ford Focus.
Like its rivals, the Megane gave birth to a handful of more colourful variants - such as a Coupe-Cabriolet and the exciting RS three-door hatchback.
Built on the 'C platform' which it shares with fellow compatriot Nissan, it too has genetic links with the Scenic and Koleos, as well as Nissan's Qashqai, X-Trail and Lafesta.
Up close and Personal
Rekindling the fond memories of the RS, the Megane hatch is like your plain Jane next door compared to the prom queen. On a more positive note, the third generation has ditched the predecessor's slightly awkward rear styling for an agreeable, albeit a more conventional look that wouldn't feel out of place in any company.
The facelift model also comes with a redesigned bumper, which gives it a more attractive profile compared to the petrol sibling we sampled four years ago.
The cabin, however, remains largely unchanged since our acquaintance with the model. There is still a tinge of 'French quirkiness' in the way the trip computer, navigation and audio systems operate - each with a standalone set of buttons found in different parts of the console.
That aside, the five-door hatch offers adequate space for the family of five - even though the rear quarters are more 'cuddly' than spacious. More notably, there is a generous boot space of 372 litres - just eight litres short of the latest Golf's.
The cabin, however, remains largely unchanged since our acquaintance with the model. There is still a tinge of 'French quirkiness' in the way the trip computer, navigation and audio systems operate - each with a standalone set of buttons found in different parts of the console.
That aside, the five-door hatch offers adequate space for the family of five - even though the rear quarters are more 'cuddly' than spacious. More notably, there is a generous boot space of 372 litres - just eight litres short of the latest Golf's.
The Drive
The Megane hatch shares the same drivetrain as the Grand Scenic Diesel - a 1.5-litre turbodiesel coupled to a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
The four-cylinder unit sports an identical state of tune in both cars, which means you can expect a zippier drive in the smaller and lighter hatchback. Indeed, the hatchback feels lighter on its feet and quicker than the 11.9 seconds century sprint quoted on the spec sheet, thanks to the fat band of torque that is easily attainable in city traffic.
While the engine never feels underwhelming by any standard, you will be terribly wrong to think that the bread and butter hatch has taken a leaf off the RS' handling.
The letdown in the Megane's steering is the unnecessary weight, which gives the hatchback a less lively character. Perhaps constrained to less generous dimensions, the diesel hatchback feels less refined than its MPV stablemate too, with obvious clatterings from the engine from the first row of seats.
Otherwise, the Megane is delightful to drive and ride with its comfort-biased springs that retain decent composure over bends and pocketed tarmac.
The Megane hatch shares the same drivetrain as the Grand Scenic Diesel - a 1.5-litre turbodiesel coupled to a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
The four-cylinder unit sports an identical state of tune in both cars, which means you can expect a zippier drive in the smaller and lighter hatchback. Indeed, the hatchback feels lighter on its feet and quicker than the 11.9 seconds century sprint quoted on the spec sheet, thanks to the fat band of torque that is easily attainable in city traffic.
While the engine never feels underwhelming by any standard, you will be terribly wrong to think that the bread and butter hatch has taken a leaf off the RS' handling.
The letdown in the Megane's steering is the unnecessary weight, which gives the hatchback a less lively character. Perhaps constrained to less generous dimensions, the diesel hatchback feels less refined than its MPV stablemate too, with obvious clatterings from the engine from the first row of seats.
Otherwise, the Megane is delightful to drive and ride with its comfort-biased springs that retain decent composure over bends and pocketed tarmac.
The best part about the diesel, no doubt, lies in its frugality. In our one-day test drive, we clocked a fuel economy of 17km/L - nothing close to the claimed 22.7km/L but still impressive nonetheless.
Conclusion
Renault is offering the Megane diesel hatchback only in Singapore - a sign that the automaker is taking a focused approach that prioritises economy and value.
The 110bhp diesel will fit nicely into Category A COE too, which translates to a relatively lower upfront premium.
No doubt the path is a less glamourous one compared to the RS hot hatch, but we reckon it is one that will fit the bills of the majority.
Conclusion
Renault is offering the Megane diesel hatchback only in Singapore - a sign that the automaker is taking a focused approach that prioritises economy and value.
The 110bhp diesel will fit nicely into Category A COE too, which translates to a relatively lower upfront premium.
No doubt the path is a less glamourous one compared to the RS hot hatch, but we reckon it is one that will fit the bills of the majority.
