Renault Megane Sport Tourer

By adding a useful estate body style, the French car-maker has widened the Megane’s appeal. The attractive vehicle isn't quite as generous inside as some of its competitors, but the Sport Tourer is sophisticated, easy-on-the-pocket to run and well kitted-out. This makes the Renault not only a decent alternative to more upmarket estates, but also a substitute for SUVs or Crossovers.

Externally, the Megane estate sports a rounded-off nose – the same as the hatchback, and it has identical C-shaped running lights. The stretched backside has wraparound tail-lights – also worn by the hatch.

The Dynamique S Nav dCi 110 variant, as driven here, houses a 1.5 turbo diesel engine and has a six-speed manual transmission as standard. On the move, the Sport Tourer is more about comfort than out and out performance. Zero to 62mph is achieved in 11.3 seconds, and the top speed is 116mph. It's not quick - but the car’s supple ride makes up for things in some ways. It enables the Megane to soak up ruts and potholes effortlessly. The model is also insulated enough to keep out tyre roar and wind whistle.

Alas, the squidgy suspension means the Renault doesn’t stay flat in corners. The car rolls a fair bit, and the steering is too light. Also, the manual gearbox feels sloppy and long-legged.

The equipment contained within the Dynamique S Nav Sport Tourer helps you forget about these woes though. The large touchscreen is the best toy. It’s like an iPad, and you can control features such as climate control, sat-nav, entertainment and Bluetooth by swiping and pinching the screen.

As mentioned already the Megane Sport Tourer isn’t massive inside, but it’s practical enough for a family of four - and it has good storage areas. For instance, a lidded cubby between the front seats and big door bins will swallow bottles of drink and other items you might need for a long journey. What’s more, the boot can consume 580-litres of luggage, and that balloons to 1,695-litres with the rear seats folded down. There are also shopping bag hooks and cubbies located at the sides of the cargo area. If that’s not enough, there’s a load divider that lifts from the boot floor and a 12V power socket.

But perhaps the most crucial thing to know about this Renault is that it’s a safe car. The Megane was awarded a five-star score by Euro NCAP three years ago (2015). All variants get stability control and six airbags as standard, while the Dynamique trim and beyond add traffic-sign recognition and lane-departure warning technology.

Indeed, the Megane Sport Tourer is an estate car with a lot going for it. Sure, it has its weaknesses, but it’s comfortable, practical and, significantly, efficient. The £22,990 Dynamique S Nav dCi 110 will do up to 76.4mpg and only emits 96g/km CO2. So, if family transport is what you need, and you’re not fussed about a fashionable crossover, then you should think about adding this Renault to your shopping list.

Pros ‘n’ Cons

• Attractive √
• Comfortable √
• Practical √
• Efficient √
• Performance X
• Gearbox X

Fast Facts (Megane Sport Tourer Dynamique S Nav dCi 110 - as tested)

• Max speed: 116 mph
• 0-62 mph: 11.3 secs
• Combined mpg: 76.4
• Engine layout: 1461cc four-cylinder diesel turbo
• Max. power (PS): 110
• CO2: 96 g/km
• Price: £22,990

Written by motoring journalist, Tim Barnes-Clay.
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