Mid-year we saw Renault introduce a sedan and wagon version of their fourth-generation Megane bringing with them a new ownership experience – a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, 5-year roadside assistance and a new service initiative – $299 for each of the first three services. They also brought new found quality. The 1.2-litre turbo seven-speed automatic Renault Megane sedan is built in Turkey, the Wagon like the hatch, built in Spain yet quality appears consistent across all three. Renault Australia also introduced drive-away pricing across the 10 model Megane range –I tested the higher grade Megane Intense sedan at a rather lofty $35,990 drive-away. However, this small car frankly is loaded with goodies and just oozes class. Loaded with safety features like autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, front side and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera. Stability control is also a feature and unlike my criticism of its absence on the smaller Clio it does come with hill start assist. In many ways I’m glad we have cars like the Renault Megane – there are cheaper premium small cars but they offer an alternative in a highly competitive marketplace where there are 24 small cars under $40,000. Highlights of the Intense is the quality interior, a high level of equipment, a huge boot, flowing turbo performance and a super smooth gearshift – a delight to drive on the open road. Possible criticism is a slightly firm suspension although this does give it a sporty feel. I’m David Berthon

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