The Megane Coupe range starts with an 86bhp 1.5 dCi diesel, which takes nearly 13 seconds to complete the 0-62mph sprint. However, the 106bhp version of the same 1.5 dCi engine feels much livelier shaving a full two seconds off benchmark. Customers can also choose from two larger diesel engines – a 130bhp 1.9 dCi, or a 160bhp 2.0 dCi. The former sets a 0-62mph time of 9.5 seconds, while the latter does it in 8.5 seconds.

The entry-level petrol engine – a 110bhp 1.6-litre – clocks 10.5 seconds to hit 62mph from rest, while Renault’s smaller, turbocharged engine, the 1.4 TCe, is more powerful (130bhp), quicker (0-62mph in 9.6 seconds) and more fuel efficient. An automatic CVT gearbox is offered with the 2.0-litre 140bhp petrol engine, but it dulls the engine’s performance and is slower than the 1.4 TCe with a 0-62mph time of 10.3 seconds.

The top petrol engine is a turbocharged 180bhp 2.0 TCe with a strong mid-range performance requiring fewer gearchanges for safe overtaking.

This new Megane Coupe is a big improvement over the old one. It has a much more substantial feel at higher speeds and lacks the over-assisted steering of the previous version that left you guessing to how much steering input was required to hold a cornering line. However, unlike cars like the Ford Focus or Mazda3, it still has a small element of ‘video-game’ style feedback when cornering.

This is a relatively minor matter, though and the Megane Coupe is an enjoyable car to drive. It feels surefooted when cornering, with high levels of grip and good composure when changing direction.