Renault Megane Hatchback 1.6e RT 5d (Elec Pack+SR) (1996/N) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Rapid Renault depreciation so very cheap to buy - but they're cheap for a reason! Frequent repairs spoil the value for money factor.
Costs
Low insurance, good on petrol but parts seem expensive.
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On the road
Driving
Easy to drive but not a 'drivers car'. Quite nimble, good on the motorway but ride is rolly on twists and bends.
Performance
Fairly brisk but power band is very narrow. Plenty of pick up between about 3000 to 3500 rpm but wheezy and sluggish outside that range.
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Living with it
Reliability
Very poor. Plasticy build quality. Lots of niggling faults (see opposite). Spent almost £1,000 on repairs in 12 months and the car has only covered 55K with a full service history.
Image
Looks quite smart for a 10 year old design. Coupe looks better and costs roughly the same in insurance if you get the 1.6e.
Comfort
Very comfortable for an economy car and well designed interior. Still comfy at the end of a 300 mile trip.
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Security and Service
Security
Never broken into but immobiliser is annoying - it works with the central locking but resets after 30 seconds.
Service
Used independent garages.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
My car has done 55,000 miles and has full service history but reliability has been absolutely dire. In 12 months of ownership: head gasket we (£400 plus), problems with idling, locking, exhaust, tracking, broken suspension spring (£200).
Other
One fault after another. A cheap and nasty car that'll make your hair grey! Parts don't seem to last five minutes and are quite pricey. Would certainly not recommend this car.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
No