F1 Limited Edition heads revised ESP-equipped Megane line-up

Renault has launched its upgraded Megane Phase II range Down Under.

The update applies across the Megane’s three body-styles -- hatch, sedan and coupé-cabriolet – and sees a mild facelift, the rationalizing of the models offered, as well as the introduction of ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) as standard equipment across the range.

Taking the original Megane line-up of 24 variants, the range has been trimmed to just 12 across three trim levels: Authentique, Expression and Dynamique. The range now includes four Hatch, two Coupé-Cabriolet, three Sedan and three Renault Sport variants.

All body types are available with Renault’s 98kW 2.0-litre engine while a revised manual-only solus entry-level ‘Authentique’ hatch gets a 1.6-litre engine with 82kW.

The Renault Sport variants (including a three-door for the first time) have unique trim and features and use the previous model’s 225hp (165kW) turbocharged 2.0-litre DOHC four unchanged.

Renault says buyer choice is not restricted as many of the features that previously differentiated models (and created the 24 variants) are still available as options.

More importantly for buyers, Megane Phase II range sees the introduction ESP with understeer control across the range, automatic roll-hoops on the Coupé-Cabriolet and rear parking proximity sensors on selected models.

According to Renault Australia’s managing director, Rudi Koenig, the "safety for all" program, brings to Renault’s Australian Megane range the benchmark safety expertise for which Renault is well known.

"Our aim is to offer the benefits of Renault’s extensive research and development in safety.

"The Megane range has always had a comprehensive level of standard safety equipment but with the addition of ESP, we are providing customers with a more comprehensive active and passive safety package.

"Research by Renault has shown, the benefits of ESP are substantial, with an estimated 35 per cent reduction in single vehicle accidents attributed to the fitment of ESP," said Mr Koenig.

The maze that was the Megane previous model range makes comparative pricing a little difficult; however, specification-adjusted pricing doesn’t seem to have moved markedly. In fact, some models are now cheaper despite the addition of ESP

The Phase II changes were announced last week along with the arrival of the hottest Megane yet to come Down Under, the Renault Sport Megane 225 ‘F1 Team.’

Just 30 of the 165kW turbocharged ‘Ultra Blue’ three-door F1 Teams will be allocated for Australia.

The first time a three-door Megane has been offered locally, the F1 Team features all the high-performance Cup upgrades (Brembo front brakes, switchable ESP, uprated springs and dampers and exclusive Dunlop SportMaxx tyres) plus extra goodies like "black-gloss" 18-inch lightweight alloys with matching door mirrors and bespoke front sports seats.

Built to celebrate Renault and Fernando Alonso’s 2005 F1 titles (and the likely 2006 titles!), like all pukka limited editions the F1 Team gets a numbered plaque (on the base of the centre console) plus the full Renault F1 Team sticker job. (We’ve seen it and the car looks stunning in the metal!)

The F1 Team is priced at $41,990. It’s not the only three-door, however, with a new ‘entry level’ Megane RS now available (with the full 165kW turbo engine) priced from $37,990.

Megane trim levels and pricing

Hatch
Authentique 1.6-litre five-speed manual only $25,490
Expression 2.0-litre four-speed auto only $29,990
Dynamique 2.0-litre six-speed manual $29,990
Dynamique 2.0-litre four-speed auto $33,490

Sedan
Expression 2.0-litre six-speed manual $28,490
Expression 2.0-litre four-speed auto $30,990
Privilege 2.0-litre four-speed auto only $35,990

Coupé-Cabriolet
Dynamique 2.0-litre six-speed manual $47,990
Dynamique 2.0-litre four-speed auto $51,490