Renault releases Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet Floride

Renault has announced a limited edition model, the Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet Floride, reprising the name of the Renault Floride convertible first seen at the Paris motor show in 1958. 

Now available in Australia dealerships, just 33 versions of the primo drop top will be sold here. Featuring a metal and glass folding roof that takes around 20 seconds to fully open or close, via a button press, the Renault Mégane CC Floride is the most expensive model in the CC range, and is priced at $45,990, representing a premium of $2000 over Renault's GT-Line convertible.

Compared to the regular Mégane CC models, the Floride gains a new exterior paint job, named Diamond Black metallic, along with other subtle touches like dark leather upholstery with Floride logos, white stitching and ivory windscreen edging.

All models come with a numbered build plate, dark 17-inch alloy wheels, and a high level of standard equipment. Things like dual zone automatic climate control, a glass wind deflector, electrically folding mirrors, keyless entry and heated front seats are standard. Rear parking sensors, auto headlights and wipers, and a two-tone black/ivory leather steering wheel "of the finest quality" is also part of the package, says Renault.

The two-tone theme is carried across the dashpad too, with an ivory-painted accent line featuring the Floride name in chrome.

A four-speaker, four-tweeter Arkamys audio system with 3D sound is connected to the car's R-Link 7-inch infotainment system, which includes satellite navigation.

Back Between 1960 and 1962 when the original rear-engined Renault Floride was sold in Australia – priced at around $3000 new – it was powered by an 845cc (0.8-litre) petrol engine, but today it's a very different story. Power comes from a 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 103kW and 195Nm, which drives the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission, or CVT.

Efficiency is rated at 8.1L/100km, and another practical feature of the car is its boot, which affords 417 litres of space with the roof closed, and 211 litres when it's open.

Justin Hocevar, Managing Director of Renault Australia, said the new model, arriving in time for the sunny season, is a "wonderful opportunity for buyers of luxury convertibles to take a good look at Renault." 

"Our research tells us that many convertible buyers seek a vehicle that makes a discrete, yet unique visual statement. The Floride will certainly appeal to style-conscious customers who are keen on luxury and appreciate the attraction of something a little bit different," said Hocevar.