Renault Megane E-Tech - An Affordable & Stylish Electric Family Hatchback

Looking for the ideal electric family hatchback? The Renault Megane E-Tech could be the one for you. The Megane is a staple model in the hatchback market that has rivalled the likes of the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf and SEAT Leon for years. But, now it has gone fully electric! The big question is, does the E-Tech version hold its own in this upcoming and highly competitive electric hatchback market?

One of our Account Managers, James, gives us a walkaround of the Megane E-Tech:

Introducing the Renault Megane E-Tech

Coming in 4 unique specifications:

• Equilibre
• Techno
• Launch Edition
• Iconic

Increasing in price and spec respectively, this EV has it all. All specs are front-wheel drive as standard, allowing for more space in the cabin because there is no drive shaft going under the rear cockpit. Although it won’t be breaking any speed records, comfort is really where this vehicle really shines. With the flat floor, removing the centre console and, of course, 440L boot space; there is a comfortable amount of space for the whole family!

Renault states an electric range of 280 miles, comparable to other EVs such as the BMW iX1, Volkswagen ID.3 and Kia e-Niro. This is more than enough range for both city drivers and those who commute long distances for work. The Megane E-Tech can rapid charge at 130kW from 10%-80% in a respectable 30 minutes. However, it also has the capability to charge at 22kW on standard AC charging. This means that with a public charger on the pavement or in a car park, a full charge is achievable in just 2 hours! No more range anxiety! If you are still concerned about range, read our guide on why electric range isn't always important.

Performance

Renault’s E-Tech EV60 (200bhp) 160kw optimum charge motor is standard across the Megane E-Tech range, this can produce a modest top speed of 99mph and acceleration of 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds. It is notably pokey picking up from 0 to 40mph, especially when needing to take off quickly to merge lanes with oncoming traffic. Additionally, it is a smooth drive at 70mph too; coupled with Renault’s efforts to reduce noise in the cabin and you have yourself a great family driving experience.

Assistance Features

Renault hasn’t skimped on the safety, parking and driver assistance features in the Megane E-Tech.

Driver assistance systems include hill start assist, adaptive cruise control, adaptive vision LED lights, automatic high beam and a smart rearview mirror (available on the launch edition and Iconic).

Safety systems include blind spot warning, active and rear emergency braking, lane keep assist, distance warning and road sign recognition.

Parking assistance systems include a rear parking camera, front and rear parking sensors, an electric foldable mirror with memory function and a 360’ surround view camera (available on the launch edition and iconic)

It is important to also check your EV regularly, here are 5 useful tips for EV maintenance.

Interior Tech / Comfort Features

As we previously mentioned, this vehicle is for families and so needs to be comfortable. The flat floor in the back and the addition of a third full-size headrest means that the middle passenger is as comfortable as the other passengers. Other nice comfort features include an adjustable heated steering wheel and dual-zone climate control.

The Renault Megane E-Tech houses a 9” infotainment screen which is angled slightly towards the driver for ease of access while driving. This screen is housed next to the 12.3” digital display cluster which while telling the driver their speed, driver mode and range; it can also host a sat nav view so that the driver can more easily navigate.

This car’s operating system has integrations for both Android Auto and Apple Car Play, helping you stay connected. Additionally, there is access to Google Assistance. By saying ‘Hey, Google’ you can command it to do a wide range of functions such as the weather or directions to a location.

To complement this technology is a high-quality Arkamys audio system as standard, the Techno spec and above have 6 speakers in the cabin (the Equilibre has 4).

Finally, there is a wireless phone charger included in the centre console and 2 USB charging ports in the front and rear as standard.

Design

Renault retained the body shape of the Megane for the E-Tech, but with a range of updates to the design to create a stylish and modern-looking EV. The large black wheel arches may now resemble that of an SUV, this vehicle is a family hatchback with a slightly lowered roof to improve aerodynamics. Making the vehicle slightly shorter is to help save power and improve the range.

There are plenty of flashy colour options, some of which are exclusive to each specification. For example, the Techno model comes with 15 colour opinions, including the vibrant ‘Flame Red’, whereas the launch edition only has 3. The Equilibre spec comes with 18” alloy wheels and all other specs have 20” as standard. Looking for more stylish EVs? Look no further than the Toyota bZ4X, their first all-electric car.

Conclusion

With its smooth and refined driving experience, advanced technology features, and eco-friendly nature, the Megane E-Tech is a great choice for drivers who want a more sustainable and efficient vehicle that still fits the needs of their families.

Think the Renault Megane E-Tech is the ideal electric family hatchback for you? Then take a look at our leasing offers for this vehicle, or if you have any questions, get in touch at 01273 433480, or request a callback at a time that suits you.