Renault Megane Hatchback (2008 - 2016) 1.6 16V (110bhp) Dynamique 5d (2009/09) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It says that I'm a sensible person that looks for the best deal around. For the same.price, I could have got a 2004 Volkswagen Golf. It also says that I'm more concerned about age, spec and mileage over a badge.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

My Mum is envious of the keyless entry and bluetooth, so much so, she must have it on her next car! My friends love the digital speedo and interior.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, without a doubt. I'm currently looking for a Renault Megane 265 Renaultsport. This car is packed with kit, looks great, drives well, is a rare site on the road and feels well put together. The only things I would add next time are the Xenon lights and the new Visio system (auto high beams and lane departure warning).

What are you likely to buy next?

I hope to buy the Megane 265 Renaultsport, Skoda Octavia VRS or the Seat Leon Cupra.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£6,400

When did you buy the car?

June 2013

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, as the car was already priced below the recommended selling price. The dealer took £100 off the asking price and gave us £50 of fuel.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Great value for money.

What was the dealer like?

The salesman was not overly pushy (although he insisted I purchased the extended warranty and buy using finance).

What's it like to drive?

The engine is punchy, flexible and quiet. Provided you're in the right gear, the car will accelerate quickly. The city is where the car is at it's best. Cruising at 30 MPH in 5th gear at about 1,200 RPM means the engine is extremely quiet as well as returning a good MPG figure. If you plan on doing a lot of motorway miles, I suggest you get the 2.0 TCE or one of the diesel engines, as the 1.6 is not great at motorway speeds. The revs are at 3,500 + when at 70 MPH, so you find yourself increasing the volume of the stereo. Overtaking is also difficult at speed. In the city, I get 37.5 MPG and on the motorway I get 42 MPG. My best MPG figure I have achieved was 45 MPG while cruising at 65 MPH. I usually get about 550 miles from a tank using Esso's regular fuel.

What's it like to park?

In a word - difficult. Without parking sensors, it is extremely difficult to reverse park. The sloping rear hatch makes it hard to see out the small rear window. Visibility out the front isn't too great either. I can't see the end of the bonnet, so it's hard to judge when to stop. I recommend getting the vehicle fitted with parking sensors.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Had to replace the drive shaft about 6 months after purchase. This is a common fault on this car so be careful. On the test drive, make sure you take the car to an empty car park and drive on full lock, if the car rattles, the CV joint has gone.

What's most practical about your car?

The big boot is by far the best feature practicality wise. The boot is big for its class and with its wide opening, it will swallow anything from 2 sets of golf clubs to 4 medium suitcases. I have yet to fold down the rear seats, but if I did, I'm sure I would be able to fit my bike with ease.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The keyless entry and start is extremely handy, by far the best gadget on the car. The bluetooth is also very handy, especially the music streaming option. The car automatically connects to my phone and the music starts playing. You'll never listen to a CD or the radio again!