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Stunning design, superior safety and enhanced driving pleasure set the new
Renault Mégane range apart from the competition.
Designed by Patrick Le Quement at the Renault Technocentre in France, the new
Mégane's dynamic and stylish silhouette showcases Renault's innovative approach
to creating vehicles in the 21st century.
Acclaimed in Europe for its radical design, the Mégane was voted "Car of the
Year 2003" by an international jury of journalists. The all-new range has proved
a leader in the safety stakes, with European models earning a "best-in-class"
rating of five stars in the independent Euro NCAP crash-testing programme.
Available in either a five-door hatch or three-door sport hatch, the Renault
Mégane range is offered with two frugal, yet powerful petrol engines together
with new-generation transmissions.
The two engines -1.6 16V and 2.0 16V - are equipped with variable inlet valve
timing (VVT) for the benefit of ease of driving and a reduction in fuel
consumption. The manual and automatic transmissions in Mégane have been
developed to unlock all the potential of the engines.
Both engines offer four-cylinder, 16-valve operation with VVT. The 1.6-litre
engine generates a handy
83kW @ 6,000rpm and torque of 152Nm @ 4,200 rpm, while the 2.0-litre variant
generates a powerful 98.5kW @ 5,500rpm and torque figures of 191Nm @ 3,750rpm.
A four-speed Pro-active transmission, equipped with flick-shift sequential
selector, will be offered on all variants of the Mégane range. Manual
transmissions include a five-speed manual with double-cone synchronizers mated
to the 1.6-litre engine, or an all-new sports-oriented six-speed manual gearbox
fitted to the 2.0-litre engine.
All Méganes are equipped as standard with electric power-assisted steering in
which the degree of assistance varies according to the speed.
Renault's excellent reputation for superior passenger safety continues with
the all-new Mégane. The entire range is equipped with the acclaimed Renault
System for Restraint and Protection (SRP), first seen in the Laguna saloon and
estate range.
This system combines twin-volume airbags and adaptive safety belts with dual
load limiters and dual pretensioners in the front seats (five-door model), while
the rear seats are equipped with three three-point safety belts. The two side
rear seats are also equipped with pyrotechnic pretensionsers with load limiters.
Front side airbags and curtain airbags are standard across the range.
In addition, the three-door Mégane sport hatch introduces the
anti-submarining airbag, a world first, to provide an anti-submarining function
for the front seats. Active safety systems fitted to the Mégane range include
latest-generation Bosch ABS 8.0 braking with Electronic Brake Distribution and
Electronic Brake Assist.
With prices starting at just $25,990 for the five-speed manual 1.6-litre
Authentique 5-door hatch, the Megane will bring affordable world-class safety
standards into the small car segment.
The 2.0-litre Dynamique 5-door hatch is priced from $31,990 for the six-speed
manual.
A second 2.0-litre 5-door hatch, the Dynamique LX - priced from $34,990 for
the manual - adds increased luxury features for $3,000 over the Dynamique.
The 2.0-litre Mégane Sport Hatch is available in just one specification
level, Dynamique LX, priced from $33,990 for the six-speed manual.
All models are available with a four-speed Pro-active transmission, equipped
with flick-shift sequential selector, for just $2,200.
The entry-level 1.6-litre Authentique five-door Mégane is exceptionally well
specified for a car in this segment. All Mégane models come equipped with
features rarely seen on a car in this segment, including automatic headlamps,
electrochrome rear view mirror, rain sensitive automatic wipers, cruise control
with speed limiter, "See Me Home" function on the headlights, "smart" rear
wiper, and integrated fuel filler cap and front underfloor storage.
The 2.0-litre Dynamique five-door Mégane has all the features of the
Authentique five-door plus climate control air conditioning, leather bound
steering wheel and gearshift, body coloured door mirrors and 16" alloy wheels.
The luxurious 2.0-litre Dynamique LX three and five-door models are similarly
specified to the Dynamique five-door but add full leather trim and 17" alloy
wheels.
All 2.0-litre Mégane Dynamique LXs are available with an optional panoramic
sunroof for just $1990.
According to Leon Daphne, Renault Australia's managing director and chief
executive officer, the all-new Mégane range will fill a void in the company's
Australian vehicle line-up.
"Mégane hatch and sport hatch brings a strong personality and driving
pleasure to the class. They also provide benchmark safety standards and
equipment levels which is what Renault customers have come to expect," Mr Daphne
said.
"The Mégane range has emphatically made its mark in Europe - claiming
'European Car of the Year 2003' and winning five stars in the Euro NCAP crash
testing programme - and I am confident the Australian range will repeat this
success."
For further information contact:
Lenore Fletcher
Manager, Public
Relations
Phone: 03-9797 4358
Mobile: 0408 320 797
Email: lenore_fletcher@renault.com.au
Karl Gehling
Manager, Media Relations
Phone: 03-9797 4247
Mobile:
0409 138 069
Email: karl_gehling@renault.com.au
The distinctive design of Mégane
With the arrival of Mégane, Renault adds a new string to its bow: the
individual hatchback. It can be summed up in three words: compact, expressive,
dynamic. Its personality corresponds to a desire for individualism and pleasure.
It is an energetic car that makes no secret of its sporty personality while
actively promoting driving pleasure.
Mégane stands out as a distinctive product in a segment of mainly look-alike
cars. Its striking style emphasizes its elegant, sophisticated nature.
Far from conforming to traditional values, Mégane stands out for its
expressive design which Patrick le Quément, Senior Vice President of Renault
Corporate Design, summarizes: "The understated dimensions of the boot, the
subtle yet clearly affirmed shoulders, the rounded, flush-fitting wheel arches...
all these elements come together to form a compact whole that smacks of agility
and control."
The architecture of Mégane can be considered triptych-like: a tapered front
end, a spacious cabin and a vertical rear end leading into the protruding boot.
The front radiator grille, with its two horizontal bars, gives extra width while
creating a backdrop for a new interpretation of the brand's redesigned visual
identity.
The sculptural, penetrating bonnet is extended on either side by the wings
with their sharply outlined crests to confirm the resolutely sporty character of
Mégane. The diamond logo on the rear end provides a focus, positioned at the top
of a triangle and resting on the Mégane name.
The first words that spring to mind on discovering Mégane are robustness and
quality. The emphasis is clearly on superior fit and finish. Clean-cut lines,
precision assembly and flush-fitting panels define this car. Inside the cabin,
the double floor has been chosen to create an uncluttered space with fitted seat
runners and a discreet central tunnel. Viewed from the outside, Mégane comes
across as a compact vehicle, suggestive of agility and excellent road-holding.
The sporty personality of Mégane is another defining feature, particularly
well illustrated by the Sport Hatch version of which Patrick le Quément says:
"It's as though it were in the starting blocks, raring to go."
Slip into the driver's seat, and the comparison that springs to mind is that
of a cockpit, in particular with the aviation-style parking brake.
The driver's environment is dedicated to driving pleasure: designed with the
driver in mind, but not to the exclusion of the other occupants, the different
instruments are deliberately grouped together.
The driver area is one of the focal points of Mégane, exemplifying as it does
the car's sporty and masculine dimensions.
Latest-generation powertrains
At launch, Mégane will be offered with two frugal, yet powerful petrol
engines together with new-generation transmissions.
The two engines -1.6 16V and 2.0 16V - are equipped with variable inlet valve
timing (VVT) for ease of driving and a reduction in fuel consumption. The manual
and automatic transmissions in Mégane have been developed to unlock all the
potential of the engines. A key factor in driving pleasure and travelling
comfort, the acoustic treatment of Mégane has been the focus of numerous studies
and innovative features.
The 1.6 16V (K4M) engine, which first appeared in 1998, has been extensively
developed for its application in Mégane. Apart from a new engine management
computer and a new throttle valve unit for improved operating stability, the 1.6
16V engine is now equipped with variable inlet valve timing. Its operation is
fully variable through a range of movement of 45° of crankshaft angle. This
continuously variable operation results in improved performance, fuel
consumption and ease of driving for each engine operating point, from idling to
maximum power.
The addition of variable inlet valve timing results in an increase in torque
of 3 to 8% at intermediate engine speeds. The 1.6 16V (K4M) engine in Mégane
thus develops 83kW at 6,000rpm and provides a maximum torque of 152Nm at
4,200rpm. To the benefit of ease of driving, 90% of the maximum torque is
available between 2,000 and 5,750rpm.
The new valve train incorporates a device to reduce a cyclical camshaft
movement, thus improving reliability and reducing noise by lowering the drive
belt tension. Noise levels are also lowered by a new air intake system and more
compact accessory drive arrangements.
The 2.0 16V (F4R) engine in Mégane is a latest-generation unit with improved
efficiency and acoustic comfort.
While it retains the variable inlet valve timing system of the previous
generation, this engine is equipped with a new engine management computer and a
new motorized throttle valve assembly to optimize ease of driving.
This engine develops 98.5kW at 5,500rpm and a maximum torque of 191Nm at
3,750rpm. In order to offer great flexibility in use, 90% of the maximum torque
is available from 2,000rpm.
A high-performance turbocharged version of this engine, developed by Renault
Sport, will be offered at a later date.
Acoustics was another major avenue of development. This new engine
incorporates a cylinder block with a large mating surface for the gearbox plus a
remote mounted water pump. The whole of the rotating assembly has been
optimized, the valve timing and the tension of the drive belt is less severe in
order to reduce noise levels. Finally, a twin-mass flywheel, 240mm in diameter,
has been adopted in order to avoid transmitting vibrations from the crankshaft
to the gearbox, thus further improving acoustic performance.
Mégane is available with automatic transmission in the form of the four-speed
Proactive unit (DP0), equipped with a flick-shift sequential selector.
This four-speed transmission, controlled by nine auto-adaptive laws, will be
offered with the 2.0 and 1.6 16V engines.
With the flick-shift selector, the driver can decide on the timing of each
gearshift for himself with a single movement of the lever, having first moved it
across the gate from the "Drive" position. In this mode, in order to protect the
mechanism, any upward or downward selection at an unsuitable engine speed is
overridden.
When slowing down, the ratio best adapted to the speed is automatically
engaged regardless of the mode selected. It is therefore impossible to end up
with the engine either over speeding or running at less than normal idling
speed.
In Mégane, Proactive automatic transmission includes developments such as a
new computer which optimizes dialogue between engine and transmission to smooth
gear-shifting.
The manual and automatic transmissions in Mégane have been developed with the
aim of exploiting all the potential of the engines. For the sake of ease of use,
the entire Mégane range uses hydraulically operated clutches which ensure
excellent vibration isolation and constant pedal load over time.
The 1.6 16V engine benefits from a new generation of five-speed manual
gearbox. Developed from the well-proven "J" series of gearboxes, the Mégane unit
has been optimized to improve efficiency and gear-change quality.
These gearboxes are now equipped with double-cone synchronizers with ball
bearings on the first two gears, and cable operation. These two features allow
selector travel to be reduced (to about 25mm) with less load and increased
precision of selection. A new reverse gear brake has also been developed,
halving the load needed for engagement.
A new six-speed manual gearbox of Nissan origin, designated "ND0", is fitted
to the 2.0 16V engine. This is intended to cover the torque capacity range from
200 to 300Nm which is tending to become more widely encountered in this market
segment. This new gearbox, with a shaft layout, is notable for its compactness
due to its low height, and for its lightness (47.5kg).
Considerable work has been done on gear-shifting quality, to achieve very
high levels of both precision and lightness of shifting. Selector travel is
particularly short, making for even more precision and better guidance. The
sixth gear brings many advantages and allows the potential of the high-range
Mégane engines to be exploited to the full. Response is improved in each of the
intermediate gears while fuel consumption and noise level are reduced in
motorway driving. Gear ratios have been adapted to the 2.0 16V engine with
shorter and closer ratios for more dynamic driving.
Mégane is agile and sure-footed in Dynamic mode
Mégane provides dynamic behaviour to match its external and internal
appearance. Based on a completely new platform, Mégane has new front and rear
suspension combining precision with highly effective isolation of noise and
vibration. For complete driving control in all circumstances, the road-going
behaviour of Mégane is highly efficient, in terms of both roadholding and
braking.
The variable assist electric power steering, fitted as standard, heightens
driving precision with characteristics tailored to every need. Cockpit-style
ergonomics has been developed to make the driver feel part of the car.
Driving pleasure is created by a combination of factors including dynamics,
ergonomics and acoustics. Feedback from the vehicle is also of prime importance.
The Mégane design specification called for a car that would provide active,
sensitive and precise driving pleasure. Built on a completely new platform with
new chassis engineering, Mégane benefits from a generous wheelbase (2,625mm),
and wide track (1,518mm front and 1,514mm rear) favouring stability and
high-potential grip. The reduced overhangs also enhance the car's
maneuverability.
The key to active safety, road holding is one of Mégane's strong points. The
new platform and its new suspension design guarantees stability regardless of
the type of road surface, side winds or even during braking. Important work has
been carried out on the filtration of noise and vibration and on feedback from
the road to achieve a higher level of driving precision and to make the car more
responsive.
With increased suspension travel and optimized damper settings, Mégane
provides ride comfort which is firm yet supple. The stiffer anti-roll bars and
wide tracks ensure roadholding of the highest level. Mégane is characterized by
high natural stability and dynamic behaviour, which remains neutral and
predictable even in extreme situations.
The new suspension systems for Mégane have been developed to combine precise
stability with noise and vibration filtration. The front suspension uses
MacPherson geometry with a rectangular lower arm which ensures the decoupling of
lateral and longitudinal forces.
This makes it possible to achieve high transverse stiffness, which improves
roadholding, while absorbing longitudinal forces for the sake of comfort. The
front suspension is carried on an isolated subframe which also contributes to
comfort by preventing the transmission of vibration.
The rear suspension consists of a programmed-deflection torsion beam system
plus coil springs. The profile of the flexible cross-beam incorporates an
anti-roll bar for optimum control of body roll.
The attachment points of the beam are outboard, which allows them to be
ideally placed just ahead of and within the wheel axis. This positioning ensures
optimum stability. The choice of stiffness of the beam and of the flexible
mountings was the result of a careful study to achieve the highest level of
vibratory and acoustic comfort.
The four discs are of large diameter (260 or 280mm ventilated at the front
according to engine, and 240mm at the rear).
The 11-inch brake servo provides a maximum pressure within the circuit of 115
bar. The deceleration ability and fade resistance of Mégane braking system has
been developed for a stopping distance of 38 metres during 10 consecutive stops
from 100 to 0kph.
Mégane is equipped with the latest generation Bosch 8.0 ABS system with EBD
to allow the potential of the rear brakes to be fully exploited. To optimize
stopping distances, Emergency Brake Assist intervenes according to the speed of
operation of the brake pedal, to increase braking load and maintain it at the
maximum set by the ABS system. A standard feature of Mégane is that whenever the
system is activated, the hazard warning lights are automatically switched on.
Mégane is equipped as standard with electric power-assisted steering in which
the degree of assistance varies according to the speed. This steering system is
adapted to the various versions in the range with the adoption of specific
operating criteria associated with the weight on the front suspension and the
type of engine.
The variable assist electric power assisted steering in Mégane allows the car
to be positioned precisely with minimum effort. The load increases with the
speed of the car, without any discontinuity when moving from one level of
assistance to the next.
This function allows it to offer both:
- steering which feels extremely pleasant when manoeuvring in town, with a
very high level of assistance. Combined with the reduced turning circle of
Mégane (10.5m between kerbs), its manoeuvrability thus almost matches that of a
small car.
- maximum driving precision at higher speeds due to the progressive reduction
in the degree of assistance. The feeling of stability around the straight-ahead
position is thus improved, together with the awareness of steering load when
entering a corner. The result is optimum steering feel for the driver with the
right degree of assistance in all circumstances.
To improve the comfort and pleasure of driving, this power-assisted steering
incorporates positive self-centering: this involves the return of the steering
wheel to the straight-ahead position and offers good steering feel thanks to a
linkage between the steering column and the rack which isolates parasitic
inputs.
The variable assist electric power assisted steering confers an average fuel
consumption saving of 0.2 litres/100km in a normalized cycle, compared with a
variable assist hydraulic system. This saving is primarily due to the fact that
the electrical system operates only on demand, unlike hydraulic technology,
which requires pressure to be maintained in the circuit at all times.
Mégane seeks excellence in safety
Mégane's design follows on from that of its predecessor - "best in class" in
its segment - and of Laguna II, the safest car on the Australian market with a
five-star rating in the Euro-NCAP crash test. The reinforced structure of
Mégane, with energy absorption and programmed crumple zones, guarantees optimum
deformation in the event of impact.
In the area of occupant protection, Mégane offers a host of features designed
to give maximum protection to all occupants equally. The new Mégane Sport Hatch
achieves a world first by incorporating Renault's latest safety advance, an
anti-submarining airbag for the front seats to ensure the same level of safety
as in the five-door hatchback.
A strategic goal and an area of expertise at Renault, passive safety on
Mégane was defined as an especially demanding design specification. Apart from
media tests, the targets for Mégane were determined by the work done in
accidentology by the Laboratory of Accidentology and Biomechanics, an
organization common to Renault and PSA.
The completely new structure of Mégane has been designed to be responsive in
the event of impact, in other words to absorb energy and turn the cabin into a
survival cell by protecting the occupants from intrusion by any mechanical
components. Thanks to the use of new steels and other materials, Mégane is
particularly effective in absorbing and dissipating kinetic energy. The front,
rear and side sections are all highly efficient programmed deformation zones.
The structure of Mégane includes a high proportion of innovative materials
with high energy-absorbing capacity, such as the new ultra high-strength steels
(2% of the structure), very high-strength steels (10%), and high-strength steels
(43%). In the event of deformation, the ultra high-strength materials offer
values of stiffness three times those of conventional steels.
A laser butt-welding process during manufacturing allows the use of steels of
different thicknesses, thereby allowing the optimization of strengthening zones
while retaining levels of performance and fuel economy among the best in class.
In a frontal impact, the design of Mégane ensures that the loads are
distributed along three main paths. The front structure brings several elements
into play, notably the detachable front cross-member built into the bumper, the
front longeron stabilized by the longeron elbow, the long pillar and the
cross-member of the bulkhead, the scuttle sides and the door frames. In
addition, the controlled movement of the units and components within the engine
compartment allows maximum compaction of the nose section, without penetration
of the cabin.
This overall control of deformation thus allows a reduction in the level of
deceleration suffered by the occupants and the risk of injury which might be
caused by an uncontrolled intrusion. The same strategy of compaction, programmed
deformation and anti-intrusion is applied to protect against rear impact.
In order to protect the vital parts of the occupant in a side impact, Mégane
is equipped with a very stiff centre pillar with programmed articulation. This
mode of deformation allows the occupant to be protected by coming into contact
with the padding built into the door panel while limiting intrusion into the
cabin. The side zone is also made safer by doubling the thickness of the centre
pillar and the roof cross-member. To this, a mid-section strengthening ring and
anti-intrusion beams in the doors are added.
Mégane is equipped with the third-generation System for Restraint and
Protection (SRP) first seen in Laguna II. This system combines twin-volume
adaptive airbags with adaptive safety belts which for the first time incorporate
double load limiters and double pretensioners for the two front seats.
In addition to the 400daN load limiter to protect the thorax, a second load
limiter rated at 600daN, built into the buckle pretensioner in the hatchback and
into the lower section of the lap-strap in the Sport Hatch - reduces the risk of
fracture of the pelvis and the iliac wings. Double pretensioners are also
installed for the front seats, two pyrotechnic pretensioners in the hatchback
and a pretensioner associated with an anti-submarining airbag in the coupé, to
perfectly secure the occupant against the seat. There is also an audible warning
sound if the driver forgets to secure his or her safety belt.
In the Mégane Sport Hatch, Renault introduces a world-first innovation: an
anti-submarining airbag to provide anti-submarining protection for the front
seats. This airbag is the subject of an Autoliv patent and is supplied
exclusively to Renault. Its purpose is to ensure the same level of safety for
the front seat occupants of the Sport Hatch as enjoyed by those in the double
pretensioner-equipped hatchback.
The double pretensioners are intended to hold the front seat occupants firmly
against the seats and to restrain their forward movement in the event of an
impact. In three-door versions, the need to access the rear makes it impossible
to house the second pretensioner on the outboard side of the front seat.
Renault's engineering team has developed and perfected a way of providing the
same anti-submarining function as the double pretensioner system fitted to the
hatchback.
This solution involves installing an airbag beneath the cushion of each front
seat so that in the event of impact, the occupant is held against the seat by
the buckle-end pretensioner and also by the anti-submarining airbag which
operates in two phases:
- The gas generator inflates the metallic envelope which compresses the foam
of the cushion and holds the occupant against the structure of the front seat
before he or she has even begun to move.
- The shape formed by the metallic envelope deforms to assume the shape of the
occupant's pelvis, while the pressure within is held constant during the impact
thanks to a deflation controller situated beneath the module.
The anti-submarining airbag thus maintains the occupant in a favourable
position relative to the safety belt, and reduces the level of risk to the
abdomen and lumbar regions, and thus the danger of serious injury.
The Mégane Hatch and Sport Hatch are equipped with lateral thorax airbags
built into the front seats for the front seat occupants, and two curtain airbags
to protect both front and back seat occupants, whether adults or children,
against head injury.
In addition, padding has been installed in several positions, including two
large volume pads built into the driver and passenger side front carpets to
protect feet, ankles and tibias, plus padding inserted within the casing beneath
the steering wheel to protect the driver's knees and femurs. Also noteworthy is
the deformable magnesium armature of the steering wheel, together with a passive
retractable steering column, which dissipates part of the energy in the event of
impact. A brake pedal fold-away system has been developed in order to counter
any rearward movement of the bulkhead in the most violent impacts.
The use of ultra-high-strength, high-strength and Dual Phase steels - the
latter a type of high-strength steel available in thin sheets - has allowed the
strength of the front seat frames to be substantially improved. Apart from
adding comfort, the two front close-contact head restraints provide protection
against neck injury in the event of rear impact. The rear passengers benefit in
the same way, being provided with three folding integrated headrests and 3-point
safety belts. The 3-point belt built into the backrest for the occupant of the
centre position allows better positioning of the belt and therefore better
retention. To round out the system, the anti-submarining bulge is strengthened
and the anchorage straps of the safety belt buckles have been shortened and
stiffened to prevent submarining and abdominal injuries.
The three back seats are equipped with inertia-reel safety belts, with load
limiters and pyrotechnic pretensioners for the two outer seats. The back seat
backrest incorporates a framework strengthened against the intrusion of luggage
in the event of an impact.
Innovation
Ingenious stowage spaces
Mégane incorporates major layout features which, reflecting the car's design
concept, optimize access to the front seats. The double floor allows slides to
be built in, thus facilitating ingress and egress. In the Mégane Sport Hatch, a
position memory built into the slides allows unrestricted accessibility.
The control lever installed high in the seat backrest also allows it to be
unlatched and folded forwards, while the sliding of the seat towards the front
provides maximum accessibility to the back seats. In the same way, at the rear,
the building of the seat slides into the floor frees more space for the feet. In
addition, the position and shape of the cantrail creates more space for the head
when entering the back seat.
The inclination of the windscreen pillars preserves visibility towards the
front. The three back seats are equipped with integrated headrests which fold
away into the top of the backrest to enhance rearward visibility when the back
seats are not occupied.
The Mégane front seats provide characteristics which are equivalent to Laguna
II in terms of comfort. The use of a high-resilience foam creates a cocoon
around the occupant. At the rear, the seat matches that of Laguna II with thick
upholstery and generous sideways support. With its folding seat base, folding
backrest and three height-adjustable headrests, it is extremely modular.
These layout features underscore Renault's innovative design and leadership
in the area of traveling comfort. All free space has been transformed into
stowage space, whether in the front and rear door panels, the front side elbow
rests, the front and rear centre armrests, and even in the front footwells.
Altogether Mégane provides 44-litres of interior stowage space, a volume far
greater than the standard for the class and a feature particularly popular with
customers.
In the hatchback only, the lockers in the front floor provide a capacity of
3-litres, sufficient for example to accept four drink cans horizontally.
Another special feature is the aviation-type parking brake, designed to free
an additional 6-litre stowage space which, when closed, also serves as an
armrest. The compact layout of the air-conditioning system was devised to free
more space for the chilled glove box. This provides a volume of 17-litres,
allowing a 1.5-litre bottle to be stowed end-on. The door padding section is
hollowed out to form a closed stowage capable of accommodating five CDs in each
front door elbow rest. The stowages in the door panels provide capacities of
3.5-litres at the front and 3.7-litres at the rear. The hollowed-out rear centre
armrest provides nearly 2-litres of stowage and two cupholders.
The luggage space is 330-litres (VDA standard) and is very easy to load,
thanks to the comfortable width between the rear wheel arches. Otherwise, the
rear shelf provides a very useful stowage position for carrying tall objects.
Tie-down rings are installed in the floor to allow luggage and parcels to be
held in position. The space beneath the floor in the spare wheel well provides
additional stowage volume.
To make on-board technology as discreet as possible, Renault conducted a
far-reaching ergonomic study into the air conditioning interface. In the
regulated version, the air conditioning console comprises three zones: in the
centre, an LCD screen which displays the temperature; on the left, the air
recycling and integral defrosting; on the right, the specific adjustments for
distribution and fan speed. Simple to use, this air conditioning conceals a high
technological content which provides optimum control of thermal comfort. In
addition to the usual internal and external air temperature sensors, a solar
radiation sensor adapts the temperature as a function of the amount of solar
radiation entering the cabin. The system is completed by a cabin filter which
prevents any pollen from entering the vehicle.
Mégane also provides optimized airflow, heat-reflective windscreen and a "see
clear" switch for rapid demisting.
Its thermal comfort is homogenous thanks to a distribution system layout
which optimizes the supply of air to the feet of all occupants.
The fuel filler flap with its integral cap avoids all risk of leakage or of
odours associated with the separate filler cap. Representing simplicity in the
extreme, the only action necessary is now to open the flap and insert the pump
nozzle into the filler neck.
A cruise control and speed limiter feature allows the driver to maintain a
constant cruising speed or to program a maximum speed. The cruise control
function is used principally on main roads or motorways. Whenever it is
activated, it can be cancelled with a single push on the brake pedal, the clutch
pedal or the "off" switch on the steering wheel, and then reactivated by
pressing the "resume" switch. The "limiter" function is more often used in urban
driving and allows the driver to accelerate or decelerate normally but only
below the selected limiting speed. Whenever this limit is reached, the
accelerator pedal encounters a "hard point". Should it be necessary, a harder
push on the accelerator pedal overcomes this resistance and enables the preset
speed to be exceeded.
In both cases, the selected speed is displayed on the dashboard and can be
modified at any time with the aid of two switches installed in the steering
wheel.
Thanks to multiplexing, the Central Cabin Computer is able to handle a great
deal of information, allowing the introduction of all the innovations which
contribute to peace of mind and traveling comfort.
Via a sensor, the Central Cabin Computer automatically Controls headlamp
operation and the speed of windscreen wiper operation according to the heaviness
of the rain. It should be noted that the rear wiper provides a similar
variable-rate function, in the AUTO position, the operating rate of the wiper
again being adapted to the heaviness of the rain.
In addition to these features, the driver benefits from an exterior lighting
"see you home" feature.
It is operated via the light switch and allows the dipped beams to remain lit
for up to two minutes after the doors have been locked.
Specifications
|
Authentique |
Dynamique |
Dynamique LX |
Dynamique LX |
|
Hatch |
Hatch |
Hatch |
Sport Hatch |
|
Manual/Auto |
Manual/Auto |
Manual/Auto |
Manual/Auto |
| Engine |
| Type |
K4M |
F4R |
F4R |
F4R |
| Induction capacity (CC) |
1598 |
1998 |
1998 |
1998 |
| Bore and stroke (mm) |
79.5x80.5 |
82.7x93 |
82.7x93 |
82.7x93 |
| Number of cylinders |
4 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
| Compression ratio |
10:01 |
9.8:1 |
9.8:1 |
9.8:1 |
| Valves |
16 |
16 |
16 |
16 |
| Max. power kW at rpm |
83@6,000 |
98.5@5,500 |
98.5@5,500 |
98.5@5,500 |
| Max. torque Nm at rpm |
152@4200 |
191@3750 |
191@3750 |
191@3750 |
| Injection |
Multipoint |
Multipoint |
Multipoint |
Multipoint |
| Fuel |
PULP |
PULP |
PULP |
PULP |
| Gearbox |
| Type |
JH3/DP0 |
ND0/DP0 |
ND0/DP0 |
ND0/DP0 |
| Number of forward gears |
5/4 |
6/4 |
6/4 |
6/4 |
| Kms per hr per thou revs in |
| 1st |
7.66/9.50 |
8.37/9.45 |
8.37/9.45 |
8.37/9.45 |
| 2nd |
13.93/17.27 |
13.57/17.18 |
13.57/17.18 |
13.57/17.18 |
| 3rd |
20.49/25.91 |
18.96/25.77 |
18.96/25.77 |
18.96/25.77 |
| 4th |
26.02/36.46 |
25.01/36.27 |
25.01/36.27 |
25.01/36.27 |
| 5th |
31.99 |
30.5 |
30.5 |
30.5 |
| 6th |
|
36.5 |
36.5 |
36.5 |
| Steering |
| Power-assisted as standard |
Variable assist |
Variable assist |
Variable assist |
Variable assist |
| Turning circle (m) |
10.5 |
10.5 |
10.5 |
10.5 |
| Turns lock-to-lock |
3.2 |
3.2 |
3.2 |
3.2 |
| Suspension |
| Front: |
MacPherson type with rectangular lower arm and anti-roll
bar |
| Rear: |
Torsion beam system, outboard attachment points with
programmed deformation - coil springs |
| Front/rear anti-roll |
| bar diameter (mm) |
19/integral |
20/integral |
20/integral |
20/integral |
| Wheels and tyres |
| Type |
Steel |
Alloy |
Alloy |
Alloy |
| Wheels |
6.5 J 15 |
6.5 J 16 |
6.5 J 16 |
6.5 J 16 |
| Tyres |
195/65 R 15 |
205/55 R 16 |
205/50 R 17 |
205/50 R 17 |
| Braking system |
| ABS Bosch 8.0 |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| EBD and Brake Assist |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Front vent disc dia. (mm) |
280 |
280 |
280 |
280 |
| Rear solid disc dia. (mm) |
240 |
240 |
240 |
240 |
| Fuel tank capacity |
60 |
60 |
60 |
60 |
| Weight |
| Kerb (kg) |
1175/1225 |
1250/1265 |
1250/1265 |
1230/1245 |
| Gross vehicle mass (kg) |
2750 |
2800 |
2800 |
2750 |
| Dimensions |
| Length (mm) |
4209 |
4209 |
4209 |
4209 |
| Width (mm) |
1777 |
1777 |
1777 |
1777 |
| Height (mm) |
1457 |
1457 |
1457 |
1457 |
| Wheelbase (mm) |
2625 |
2625 |
2625 |
2625 |
| Front track (mm) |
1518 |
1518 |
1518 |
1518 |
| Rear track (mm) |
1510 |
1510 |
1510 |
1510 |
Megane features
| Comfort and technology |
Authentique |
Dynamique |
Dynamique LX |
Dynamique LX Sport Hatch |
| Electric front and rear |
| one touch windows |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Electrochrome rear view |
| mirror |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Height adjustable front seats |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Chilled glove box |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Height and reach adjustable |
| steering wheel |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Rain sensitive automatic |
| wipers |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| See Me Home function |
| headlights |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Smart rear wiper |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Trip computer and outside |
| temp gauge |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Cruise control with |
| speed limiter |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Automatic headlamps |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Variable power assisted |
| steering |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Central locking with |
| Renault card |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| CD player and radio with 6 |
| speakers & fingertip control |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Air conditioning |
Std |
|
|
|
| Climate control air con |
|
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Pollen filter |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Front and rear armrests |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Front underfloor storage |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Body coloured bumpers |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| 60/40 split fold rear seats |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Cloth upholstery |
Std |
Std |
|
|
| Full leather upholstery |
|
|
Std |
Std |
| Driver's seat lumbar adjustment |
|
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Black electric door mirrors |
Std |
|
|
|
| Body coloured electric |
|
|
|
|
| door mirrors |
|
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Electric glass sunroof |
|
|
Optional |
Optional |
| Chrome door handles |
|
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Soft touch steering wheel |
Std |
|
|
|
| Leather covered steering |
| wheel |
|
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Leather covered gear knob |
|
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Heat reflective windscreen |
|
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Integrated fuel filler cap |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| 15" Steel wheels |
Std |
|
|
|
| 16" Alloy wheels |
|
Std |
|
|
| 17" Alloy wheels |
|
|
Std |
Std |
| Safety |
| ABS brakes with EBD & BA |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Double optic headlamps |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Front fog lamps |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Door open and fasten |
| seatbelt indicator |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Driver and front passenger |
| adaptive airbags |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Front lateral airbags |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Curtain airbags |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Front anti-submarining in |
| seat airbags |
|
|
|
Std |
| Programmed Restraint |
| System (PRS) |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Front/Outer rear seatbelt |
| pretensioners |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Load force limiters in front |
| safety belts |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Height adjustable headrests |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Anti-whiplash front headrests |
|
Std |
Std |
Std |
| 3 rear 3-point lap-sash |
| seatbelts |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| 3 height adjustable rear |
| headrests |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Side impact bars and honey |
| combed padding in the doors |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Fuel cutoff in event of impact |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Full size spare wheel |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Anti-theft |
| Electronic engine |
| immobiliser |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Keyless car with |
| Renault card |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
| Renault Anti Intruder Device |
| (RAID) automatic locking |
| system |
Std |
Std |
Std |
Std |
|
