RENAULT MEGANE COUPE (2012 – 2016) Models Covered 3dr Coupe (1.2, 1.6, 2.0 petrol, 1.5, 1.6 diesel [Expression+, Knight Edition, Dynamique Tom Tom, GT Line, Megane Renaultsport])

Introduction

Renault’s improved second generation Megane Coupe delivered good looks, strong value and a wide range of talents to the most affordable end of the small sports coupe market, while keeping its five-door stablemate’s first rate refinement, comfort and build quality. Original buyers could specify this coupe to be sporty – or just rely on the looks to do their own talking. Either way, it’s worth stretching for one of these post-2012 cars over the original post-2009 models. The later variants came with an improved range of more efficient engines and a surprisingly sharp handling package.

What You Get

Aesthetically, this second generation Megane Coupe was one of the most important Renault designs of modern times, it’s a shape that may not work from all angles, but it’s certainly an arresting one and the front end’s bespoke, aggressive treatment ensures that this model could never be confused with a normal Megane five-door in a head on encounter.

What To Look For

The Mégane Coupe’s powerplants have a good reliability record but customer satisfaction surveys show the Renault still has some way to go to approach the class best when it comes to reliability of electronics and servicing costs. The cabins look great when new but after surveying a few used examples, some of the dash materials can look a little scratched quite easily. Check for crash damage, make sure kids haven’t damaged the rear upholstery or seat backs and ensure that sunroofs, central locking and alarms all work.

On The Road

On the move, this is an easy car to place through the corners, leaving you free to enjoy this model’s tenacious grip, slick gearbox and general absence of body roll. All virtues further enhanced by the Renaultsport chassis fitted to the 2.0-litre dCi 160 variant and, of course, to the Renaultsport 265 hot hatch model with its race-tuned 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine. Other engines on offer included 1.2 and 1.6-litre petrol units, 90 and 110bhp 1.5-litre diesels and a 130bhp 1.6-litre diesel.

Overall

There are plenty of tempting options for you to consider if you’re looking for an affordable sports coupe in today’s used car market. This then, may be the coupe you’ve always dreamed of. But it may also very well be the one you actually need.