Renault Megane CC Dynamique TomTom 1.4 TCe 130

The second generation of Megane Coupe Cabriolet uses many of the concepts familiar form the previous, first generation, folding hard top model but applied to the new Megane platform. With updated styling inside and out plus a larger glass roof the model aims to make its presence felt in the increasingly competitive sector.

The switch from canvas roof to folding hard-top combined with greater performance from the sector generally as convertibles become more refined and capable saw sales of the first generation Megane Coupe Cabriolet more than double during its production run. The latest Megane Coupe Cabriolet aims to build on that success with more of the same in more contemporary package.

Using the new Megane platform and flaunting similarly chic styling, the Megane Coupe Cabriolet's key feature remains the impressive folding glass roof. Now even larger, it retracts into the boot leaving a flush body at the push of a button. Yet, even in place, it allows in lots of light to give the model an open-air feel.

To trim levels are available, both extremely well equipped with leather, air-con, electric windows, heated door mirrors, keyless go and more. Individual touches have also been applied to the interior to give the Megane Coupe Cabriolet a more exclusive feel than other models within the comprehensive Megane line-up.

The model also benefits from new technologies including the 1.4 TCe petrol engine and the option of Renault's new Getrag-designed twin-clutch gearbox in combination with a 1.5-litre diesel engine for exceptional efficiency. The four-seater model therefore boasts even greater versatility.

Our verdict on the Renault Megane CC Dynamique TomTom 1.4 TCe 130

An excellent all-rounder, the new Renault Megane Coupe Cabriolet proves a highly enjoyable cruiser with the roof down and a versatile every day drive with the roof up. The glass roof remains a highly attractive and beneficial feature and the comfortable interior offers respectable quality. Built for comfort rather than speed, it's none-the-less a pleasant driving experience.

Costs

The 1.4 TCe 130 unit is not the most efficient unit in the Megane Coupe Cabriolet range but still offers an impressive return on fuel and respectably low emissions. Insurance costs will be middling and purchase prices are reasonable considering the decent equipment levels and complex folding roof mechanism.

Space and practicality

Strictly a four-seater model, rear passengers are squeezed closer together owing to the roof mechanism shoulders, but room in the rear is adequate regardless. The boot is actually a very good size, but that is halved with the roof folded making larger items more difficult to retrieve. In the front the Megane Coupe Cabriolet feels roomy and storage options are actually very good.

Controls and display

The GT model uses a traditional analogue speedometer and rev counter but the part digital affair of the Dynamique TomTom is actually very good. Clear and easily understood, it features a large digital speedometer reading. The centre console arrangement is equally easy on the eye, although some of the buttons and knobs are a little on the small side. The location of the sat-nav controls on the transmission tunnel is very good and cruise control buttons are present on the steering wheel, with audio controls on stalks behind.

Comfort

The Megane Coupe Cabriolet scores highly for comfort, with strong equipment levels and quality materials getting it off to a good start. The panoramic glass roof gives the interior a light and airy feel when not in cabriolet mode and comfortable seats combine with impressive ride quality and, in the 1.4 TCe 130 model, a quiet and refined engine to offer a peaceful and highly enjoyable environment.

Car security

A lockable glovebox, dead-locking, engine immobiliser and Renault's RAID anti-intruder alarm system offers a strong degree of security. The solid roof is also a bonus compared to a soft-top model.

Car safety

As always, Renault has paid a great deal of attention to safety in the Megane Coupe Cabriolet. Pop-up bars protect occupants in the event of a roof-down rollover. Tyre pressure monitoring, auto lights and wipers, emergency brake assist, stability control, seat belt pretensioners and adaptive airbags are part of a long list of passive and active aids. Renault traditionally achieves excellent crash safety scores thanks to impact absorbing bodies.

Driver appeal

The Renault Megane Coupe Cabriolet's driving appeal lies in its cruising ability, rather than sports performance. With this in mind, the 1.4-litre turbocharged unit proves a smart choice, combining strong economy with apt performance and a high degree of refinement. The six-speed manual transmission is slick and precise, automatic transmissions are also well suited to the car's relaxed nature. Cornering ability and roadholding are assured if not particularly inspiring.

Family car appeal

For a convertible model, the Megane Coupe Cabriolet could make a useable family car. The roof would need to remain in place to make the most of the boot space and the rear seats may be difficult to access with very small children, but decent economy and a reasonably spacious interior help.

First car appeal

An unusual choice for a first car, the Megane Coupe Cabriolet offers strong value for money and open air appeal that might make it appeal to younger drivers. It's not a particularly small car however, and the rear visibility may not be best suited to a less experienced driver.

Quality and image

Coupe Cabriolet vehicles are very popular and models such as the Megane Coupe Cabriolet are high on kerb appeal. Although the Renault badge is not the most desirable available, the company consistently produces good-looking vehicles and the French manufacturer's ability to build folding hard-top models has already been proven by the previous generation car.

Accessibility

Rear seat access is naturally a little restricted by the two-door form, but the Megane Coupe Cabriolet should pose no problems when it comes to front seat access thanks to the large doors. Boot access is also good thanks to the large door, unless the roof is folded in which case the gap becomes smaller.

Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)

The clue is in the name of the Dynamique TomTom model. It comes with a built-in TomTom sat-nav unit. Sound quality from the unit is not as impressive as from some premium rivals and the mapping not 100 per cent reliable on the test car, but TomTom users should find the functions familiar. A high quality sound system produces good results.

Colours and trim

Megane Coupe Cabriolet customers have a choice of two interior trim designs regardless of the model they choose. The lighter of the two features dark charcoal roof trimming against light beige leather, which is a more relaxing look than the red leather option. Cabins are luxuriously equipped with soft touch materials and a degree of impressive detailing. The model looks particularly good in the lighter shades available - particularly the fashionable white.

Parking

Parking sensors are not standard equipment on the Dynamique TomTom model, and with the roof in place rear visibility is somewhat restricted which will make it hard to reverse until familiar with the dimensions.

Spare wheel

Emergency tyre repair kit fitted as standard.

Range information

Petrol engine options - 1.4-litre (128bhp); 2.0-litre (138bhp); 2.0-litre (178bhp). Diesel engine options - 1.5-litre (108bhp); 1.8-litre (128bhp); 2.0-litre (158bhp). Transmission options: six-speed manual gearbox, CVT gearbox with six selectable preset ratios, six-speed twin-clutch automated manual gearbox. Trim levels: Dynamique TomTom, GT.

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Ford Focus CC Paste one line comment here

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