Renault Megane hatchback (2016-2022) - Interior & comfort

The Renault Megane had a seriously impressive interior when it arrived but it's now clear this is the facelifted version of a car that first launched back in 2016. Not only do more recently launched Renault models like the Captur feel more modern, rivals like the Skoda Octavia are way ahead. 

The R.S. Line model enjoys a large portrait-orientated touchscreen that dominates the centre of the dashboard. It's also a big plus that the facelift saw the return of physical controls for the climate control, instead of operating them via the touchscreen; it makes them much easier to use on the move. 

Following the example set by the Kadjar SUV, the standard of interior finish is much better than we’ve seen in a Megane before, with a choice of plush seat fabrics and high-quality materials. The Megane is a pleasingly quiet and smooth car to travel in at 70mph, while even the larger 17 or 18-inch wheels fitted to the Iconic and R.S. Line models respectively don’t induce much road noise, while preserving a smooth ride. A slight whistle at high speed can be traced to wind rushing around the door mirrors, but you’d never notice it with the radio on.

Renault Megane dashboard

If you step inside the R.S Line trim, the first thing you’ll notice about the Megane’s dashboard is the 9.3-inch, portrait-orientated infotainment screen. This is something inspired by luxury brands like Volvo and Tesla, and the latest facelift updated the screen and software, improving its functionality and graphics. The instrument cluster is bang-up-to-date, too, with the traditional dials being augmented by a seven-inch screen that you can configure to display different information. Some menus are a little awkward to navigate, though, and the Apple CarPlay/Android Auto displays don’t fit the large screen very well.

The sat-nav system is easy to use, but the touchscreen and its surround also quickly attract fingerprints and will need regular cleaning.

The R.S. Line has sports seats with a unique style of cloth upholstery, chrome door sills and privacy glass that helps keep the interior cool and valuables hidden.

Dig deeper, though, and you’ll find some cheaper materials in areas where inquisitive hands are less likely to stray, such as between the seats and towards your feet. The presence of these plastics puts the overall interior quality closer to the standards of a Vauxhall Astra inside, while easily beating the fit and finish of the Hyundai i30 and Kia Ceed.

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Equipment

For the latest facelift, Renault simplified the Megane range by reducing the number of trim levels to just two - there were six originally. The entry-level Iconic comes well-equipped, with a seven-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, DAB radio, USB connectivity, LED daytime running lights, air-conditioning and keyless entry.

The Iconic trim is also fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels, a ‘Multisense’ driving mode selector, sat nav, automatic headlights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors and an enhanced stereo with ‘3D sound’.

The R.S. Line model can be identified from outside by unique bumpers and a silver rear diffuser. The theme continues inside, with chrome door sills, sports seats and privacy glass. Importantly, you also get the 9.3-inch touchscreen that makes the interior look much more impressive.

Options

The Renault Megane is available with an assortment of option packs, each of which brings a certain amount of extra kit. You can specify the Parking Pack Premium, which adds a blind-spot detector and rear cross traffic alert system to the Iconic trim, while the Technology Pack introduces the larger 9.3-inch touchscreen.

Heated seats can be added to the R.S. Line, along with a premium Bose stereo system with nine speakers. Some will also view a spare wheel as an essential, and it's available for both versions.