We look at the new Renault Megane, shortlisted contender for European Car of the Year
Why is it a contender?
Two reasons: first of all it has the driving ability Renault should really have adopted for the previous generation and, secondly, it's as important for Renault and France as its rival VW Golf is for the Germans. The two rival nations are pitted against each other in the family hatchback market. National pride will always raise its head in these circumstances.
Who is it aimed at?
Along with its current customer base, the softer, more traditional styling means it should have more mainstream conservative appeal.
While the outgoing version was distinctive - and we thought it cute - the bulging rear boot was not to everyone's tastes. Indeed it was softened during a facelift.
Despite our fondness for it, sales records show that family hatchback buyers are rarely out to make bold statements. This car is better suited to their tastes. For evidence, just look at the recent "new" Focuses and Golfs. It's hard to spot the difference between new and old.Change is not something these buyers deal with very well. In this incidence you get a more traditional styling, but Renault's feel to the car.
And in keeping with Renault's use of safety as a marketing feature, the new Megane is likely to score very well on the EuroNCAP crash safety tests.
What's under the bonnet?
Three diesel versions will be offered initially, with a 1.6-litre petrol 110bhp variant arriving early next year.
The diesel options are two variants of Renault's critically acclaimed 1.5-litre dCi - either 85bhp or 105bhp - and a 130bhp 1.9-litre unit.
We've long been a fan of this 1.5-litre diesel engine, and its combination of power and low emissions make it a real winner in the current Irish tax climate.
In 85bhp guise it puts out just 118g/km, and even with the extra power it only emits 120g/km.
That means they both fall into the lowest tax bands, with motor tax for both variants at just €100 this year and €104 next.
Even the 1.9-litre 130bhp diesel engine emits only 134g/km, giving it an annual motor tax bill just €150.
Expect a flexifuel version of the 1.6-litre petrol later next year as well.
How much?
Pricing is in line with the competition in terms of similar diesel offerings. Starting with the 1.5-litre 85bhp version in Royale specification - which includes air-con as standard - the price is €20,400. That rises to €24,000 for the 105bhp version, and €27,000 for the 1.9-litre. These would suggest the 1.5-litre will make up by far the majority of sales. Closing in on €30,000 is arguably too much for a family hatchback in the current economic climate. No prices yet for the 1.6-litre petrol.
What's it like to drive?
Surprisingly agile and sharp. Renault has earned a reputation for rather soft handling that gave the driver little or no feedback on the road or in corners.
It was point and click motoring, light and easy in town but far too numb for entertaining handling on the open road. This feels like a much more informative, better-built package that's just as easy to negotiate around urban traffic, but far more responsive out in the countryside.
Why might it win?
Changes to its handling and more practical design and layout will appeal to people who already have a soft spot for the Gallic brand. The overall improvements in cabin fit and finish, along with ride and handling has won it favour with many jury members.
Why might it not win?
Some will be disappointed that they stepped back from the more original styling of old, seeing it as a victory for conservatism over originality. The outgoing car had a character that seems to be lacking in the new version. Again, as with some other cars in this class, while it has recorded big improvements in handling and ride, has it beaten its rivals in this class or merely closed the gap on them? In removing the quirky design have they also removed the car's unique character?
Is it worth it?
The 1.5-litre engine can do no wrong in our eyes, and the annual savings in motor tax is to be warmly welcomed in these financially chastened times. Prices could be more competitive, however, particularly given that the VRT is only 14 per cent on these diesel version. It's in line with competitors when it should really be significantly less.
What is it up against, and does it match up?
Ford Focus, VW Golf, Toyota Auris and Opel Astra. It's no longer the quirky softy. In return for this, it does drive as well as some of its rivals listed here. Not a class leader, but certainly in the fray.