It seems like the Megane E-Tech was revealed ages ago, yet thanks to Covid and chip crisis delays, it only arrived on the UK market late last year. It is a significant model from the French manufacturer too, as it’s the first Renault model to use the CMF-EV platform, shared with the Ariya, from allied manufacturer Nissan. The same platform, we’re told, will also be the basis for a C-segment SUV that will be launched later this year. 

Outside, the Megane E-Tech’s design looks sharp, attractively detailed, but at the same time with the large diamond logos and curvy daytime running lights, it is clearly identifiable as a Renault. Most interesting parts of the design are the coupe-like curvy roofline, sharp details on the bumpers and sides of the Megane. Plus, the large and detailed 20in alloy wheels that were fitted as standard to our Techno test car. This all adds up to one of the best-looking EVs in its class. 

The inside of this Renault is no less radical or attractive. Sitting on top of the dashboard is the combined 12.3in driver information display cluster and 9in infotainment touchscreen. The screen is cranked towards the driver to make it easier to use, but the icons are small, making it difficult to operate. We also found it hard to connect our phone via Bluetooth.

Elsewhere in the front, there’s a rather busy three-spoke, almost oval, multi-function steering wheel. The front seats are also tall, multi-adjustable and supportive. 

Move to the back, and things get more compromised. Legroom is no better than average and that curvy roofline means the tallest passengers will be brushing the headlining. Boot space is impressive at 440 litres and can be easily extended by using the split/fold rear seat. Sadly, the Megane’s overall quality feel is undermined a little by the use of some shiny and hard plastics lower down.  

Whilst this Renault’s shape looks sharp, all-round visibility is compromised thanks to the design. At the front, the thick windscreen pillars get in the way when making turns, whilst the rear screen is tiny and soon picks up road muck, with the small rear wiper not giving enough coverage. Finally, the thick rear roof pillars also get in the way. Thankfully, there’s the security of a rear reversing camera and parking sensors fitted as standard. 

Just one Megane E-Tech version is available in the UK, with a 60kWh battery and 160kW electric motor equalling 218hp and a WLTP range of 280 miles. We had this Megane in
the depths of winter, and all we could extract from this EV was 180 miles – a significant drop. 

When it comes to charging, it tops out at 130kW, meaning a fast 10-80% charge will take 30 minutes. With a full charge via a 7kW wall box at 10 hours.   

Previous Megane models are well-known for their driving ability, and this one doesn’t disappoint. Highlights are the tight body control, sharp acceleration, and responsive steering. It is not all good news though, as the 20in wheels give an over-firm ride, especially around town. and despite being agile, the steering is too light and lacking in feel – unsettling the handling if you make sharp actions. Elsewhere, we’re fans of one pedal
driving (once we’d figured out how to work this via the steering wheel-mounted paddles). It works well enough as the brakes feel generally snatchy. 

To sum up, the Renault Megane E-Tech looks great inside and out, drives well and in Techno spec is well-equipped. However, we worry about its winter range, the quality of some interior finishes and the depreciation. The MG4 largely does the same job as the Renault but is significantly cheaper and as such, worthy of equally similar consideration. 

Renault Megane E-Tech Techno 

P11D: £39,440

Residual value: 50.61%

Depreciation: £19,961

Fuel: £4,371

Service, maintenance and repair: £1,743

Cost per mile: 43.46p 

Range: 280 miles

CO2 (BIK %): 0g/km (2%)   

BIK 20/40% a month: £13/£26

Luggage capacity: 440 litres

Battery size/power: 60kWh/218hp