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Following the release of the radical Mégane hatchback and Sport hatch late last
year, Renault has unveiled a new addition to the range, the Mégane sedan.
Like the hatchback models, the Mégane sedan has a distinctive design, dynamic
handling and numerous innovative and technical features to improve the ease of
operation for both the driver and passengers.
The new Mégane sedan represents a departure from the conventional and often
utilitarian character of established models in the sedan car markets.
The Mégane sedan presents a modern and distinctive interpretation of the
classic sedan shape. Its height, cohesive and fluid style and incredible
roominess gives the model great appeal and sets it apart from other sedans
within its market segment. Inside, it offers the same quality of finish and
treatment of the controls already found in the hatch.
Unlike the majority of sedans on the market, whose wheelbase and rear door
dimensions remain identical to those of the hatchbacks from which they are
derived, the Mégane sedan has a wheelbase 61cm longer than that of the hatch. In
addition, the side doors are longer as is the rear overhang, resulting in easier
accessibility.
A 2.0-litre 16-valve engine with Variable Valve timing (VVT) will be
available on all models. This lively engine generates a powerful 98.5kW @
5,500rpm and torque figures of 191Nm @ 3,750rpm.
Two transmissions are available, a four-speed Pro-active transmission,
equipped with flick-shift sequential selector, or a six-speed manual gearbox.
To ensure great precision and control, the suspension has been adapted to the
sedan, particularly on the damper settings and the amount of suspension travel.
The Mégane sedan is also equipped with ABS, Emergency Brake Assist and
electronic brake force distribution (EBD).
Renault upholds its excellent reputation for expertise in the area of
passenger safety with the Mégane sedan. Making the most of the five-star score
achieved in the Euro NCAP crash tests by the Hatch, the Mégane sedan features a
strengthened structure adapted to its architecture. This structure includes both
energy-absorbing zones and programmed deformation, therefore guaranteeing
optimum performance during impact. As well as this, the Mégane sedan is equipped
with side chest airbags in the front seats and two curtain airbags front and
rear.
The sedan on display at the motor show is a European specified vehicle and
Australian specification levels and pricing will be announced in late March.
According to Leon Daphne, Renault Australia’s managing director and chief
executive officer, the Mégane range showcases the cutting edge of European
fashion and combines optimum safety and driving pleasure, so important to the
Australian market.
“The Mégane sedan will continue the success of the Mégane hatch and broaden
the appeal of the range with its charismatic flare and desirable feature list,”
said Mr Daphne.
Specifications – Sedan
| Version |
F4R - 2.0 litre |
| |
| Engine |
F4R 770 |
| Capacity (cc) |
1998 |
| Bore x Stroke (mm) |
82.7 x 93 |
| Number cylinders/valves |
4/16 |
| Max. power kW at rpm |
98.5@5,500 |
| Max. torque Nm at rpm |
191 @ 3,750 |
| Injection |
MMultipoint |
| Fuel |
Petrol |
| Fuel capacity |
60 |
| Catalytic converter |
3 |
| |
| Brakes |
| ABS Bosch 8.0 with EBD |
3 |
| Front - ventilated discs - dia. (mm) |
280 |
| Rear - solid discs - dia. (mm) |
240 |
| |
| Steering |
| Variable assist power assisted |
3 |
| Turning circle (m) |
10.7 |
| Turns lock to lock |
3.2 |
| |
| Suspension |
| Front: Mac Pherson type with |
| Rectangular lower arm & anti-roll bar |
3 |
Rear: Torsion beam system, outboard
attachment points with
programmed
deformation coil springs
|
3 |
| Front/rear anti-roll bar - dia. (mm) |
20 / integral |
| |
| Weight (kg) - Sport Hatch |
| Unladen kerb weight |
1.275 |
| Gross vehicle weight (GVW) |
1,825 |
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