Presentation and price: Elektro-Mégane starts at a good 35,000 euros
Renault expands the Mégane range as part of the “Renaulution” plan for an electric crossover. The Mégane E-Tech Electric, called Mégane E for short, is based on the CMF-EV platform of the Nissan Ariya and will be offered in parallel with its namesake siblings with combustion engines for the time being. The only thing the Mégane E has in common with them is the name, which the more compact dimensions make clear.
Despite its crossover appearance, it is more likely to poach in the territory of VW ID.3 than ID.4. Renault puts the range at up to 470 kilometers according to WLTP. Prices start at 35,200 euros for the variant with 130 hp. The more powerful version with 218 hp is available from 41,700 euros. The environmental bonus is deducted from the purchase price.
The prices at a glance.
Dimensions: This is how big the E-Tech Electric is
• Length: 4200mm • Width: 1768 mm (2055 mm including exterior mirrors) • Height: 1505mm • Wheelbase: 2685 mm • Weight: 1642-1783 kg (depending on engine) • Trunk volume: 440-1332 l
The proportions make the Mégane E-Tech appear significantly larger than it actually is.
Appearance: The Mégane E bears the new Renault logo
Despite its relatively compact dimensions, the Mégane E looks beefy. The ones that have moved into the corners of the vehicle contribute to this Rims between 18 and 20 inches as well as the colour-contrasting wheel arches. The front is characterized by Z-shaped daytime running lights and flat LED headlights. The latter are equipped with automatic high beam, which adjusts the spreading pattern depending on the road (downtown, country road, motorway). The new Renault logo is emblazoned in the middle.
The sill is very high. Behind it are 440 liters of storage space and a deep loading floor.
Not only is the engine housed under the bonnet, but also the entire air conditioning system, which means more space in the interior. The door handles are also interesting. They can be retracted in the front doors as standard. The rear sit hidden in the C-pillars.
Up to 1332 liters storage volume
The rear of the Mégane E is reminiscent of the Range Rover Evoque, with its tiny rear window and flat taillights. A highlight in the literal sense are the rear lights, which create a 3D effect with their milled interior. Behind the tailgate are 440 liters of luggage space available, with the rear seat folded down it swallows up to 1332 liters. Because the electric motor is on the front axle, the loading floor is very deep and allows more space. Unfortunately, the loading sill is extremely high, which should make loading difficult.
Interior: Infotainment developed with Google
Im The cockpit of the Mégane E is digital. A unit consisting of digital displays and a vertical infotainment screen, which Renault calls “OpenR”, is installed as standard. The digital cockpit can be configured and, in addition to animated round instruments, also displays the active driving aids, the navigation map and various information on music, vehicle data and more.
Except for the many levers on the steering column, the cockpit is very tidy. Android-based infotainment.
The infotainment was developed together with Google and relies on Android Automotive OS, which is also used by the Polestar 2. In addition to the usual Google services, a route planner especially for electric cars is also integrated. The infotainment is instantaneous and appears to be a definite step up from previous Renault systems. The system also masters wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There is also a button bar below the infotainment for climate control.
Wood, leather and recycled materials
With the air conditioning units moved forward, there is not only a lot of space in the cockpit for the passengers, but also an enormous amount of space for shelves and compartments. It should be 30 liters in total, even the center tunnel is basically one big storage and storage space.
The disadvantage: As a result, the gear selector lever had to move to the steering column. There are now no fewer than four levers and control satellites, three of them on the right. In practice, this could lead to confusion and operating errors. Apart from that, the cockpit looks well thought out and of high quality, for example the door storage compartments are lined with felt. Many surfaces are made from recycled materials. In the top of the three equipment lines there are wood trim and leather seats.
It’s tight in the rear
It’s not quite as airy in the rear. Leg and headroom are good for adults, too; a credit to the long wheelbase and the flat battery. It is difficult to squeeze your feet under the front seats. And from a body height of about 180 cm, the window edge begins at eye level, which leads to a cramped feeling of space. In addition, niceties such as a foldable center armrest or a third climate zone are missing. Others can do that better.
In general, the space in the rear is okay. However, the upper window line impairs the sense of space.
Driving report: The Frenchman has a lively start
AUTO BILD has already driven the Mégane E-Tech with the 60 kWh battery. Thanks to the unladen weight of just over 1600 kilograms and 218 hp, the Frenchman sprints amazingly lively from a standing start. The steering reacts quickly and surprisingly directly – but remains somehow callous. The different driving modes change the character of the car, but most customers will probably be picked up with the comfort mode. Here, too, driving pleasure is still guaranteed. There is a detailed driving report to read here.
Drives: two power levels and always front-wheel drive
On the engine side, the Mégane E is offered in two power levels, both with front-wheel drive. The weaker engine delivers 96 kW (131 hp) and 250 Nm of torque, while the more powerful delivers 160 kW (218 hp) and 300 Nm of torque. The almost 1.8-ton crossover then accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds, and the top speed is limited to 160 km/h.
According to Renault, the engines have been completely redeveloped and should be more compact and lighter than in the Renault Zoe. Responsible for this are, among other things, oil cooling and more efficient thermal management.
Battery and range: particularly safe battery
Customers can choose between 40 and 60 kWh for the batteries, which enable ranges of up to 300 km or 470 km according to WLTP. You can charge with a maximum of 130 kW, provided you have a fast charging station. In the best case, electricity for a range of up to 300 kilometers can be recharged in 30 minutes. The wallbox can be charged with seven, optionally with 22 kW.
With alternating current, it can be charged with seven kW (optionally 22 kW). With direct current it is a maximum of 130 kW.
Exciting: Renault has provided the batteries with special access for the fire brigade. Any battery fires should be able to be efficiently extinguished in a few minutes without the vehicle having to be kept under water in special containers for hours. The maximum of 26 driver assistance systems that the Mégane E brings with it also belong in the safety category.
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