Renault Megan GT 205 EDC S&S

Not that Renault is asleep, after all, quite a few new cars (and models) have rolled off the assembly lines in recent years, but nothing really happened. One that even those who do not really like the Renault brand will say, even with a lump in their throat, that the car is good. Or at least different, or at least has the potential to be good.

As is the case with any new generation, minor defects or shortcomings are possible, which are usually eliminated in the first year of production, and as a result, the car only eventually becomes what the manufacturer wanted it to be in the beginning. But don't panic, these are little things the average driver might not even notice. Maybe it's just computer settings, synchronization of some menus, language of speech and navigation, and the like.

There are also such trifles in Megan as an unsuccessful translation of the speech of the navigator, who nevertheless, albeit with a few unsuccessful expressions, speaks Slovenian. This Renault Navigator speaks like a real woman - always, and sometimes even too much. But, viewed from the other side, many will welcome it, as it will be difficult to get lost if there are so many conversations and commands. Those drivers who, despite such accurate navigation, will be able to do this, it is better to take a taxi. Already now, inside the model, the versions can be very different, and nothing has changed with the new Megane. First of all, of course, it is commendable that we can write without a shadow of a doubt that this is really a new car, and not refurbished. Although some design image with its predecessor exists, the new design is so fresh and pleasant that no one will think of the old model anymore.

Then there is the GT version and this time we tested it ourselves. From a distance, even the layman notices that this is a sports version. But most of all, the color of the sills, spoilers, special bumpers and large 18-inch wheels stood out. Usually sports versions are painted in bright colors that ordinary drivers do not often use. But this Renault color is something special, although it is lively, it does not stand out and glows beautifully in the sun. Well done Reno, good start. Unlike previous practice, the test Megane also impressed with the interior.

The seats are excellent as they do a great job even in corners when they provide much needed lateral support to the body and are therefore not only beautiful but also practical. The steering wheel is just sporty and thick, and since the Megane GT 205 is equipped with an automatic transmission, the driver also has ears to shift gears. They are commendably placed behind the wheel, which means they don't spin with it, but it's true that they can be placed too high. But below is the crowd with the windshield wiper lever and radio control switches. What's more, everything in the car is controlled by the R-Link 2 system. With the 2 mark, it's clear that this is already an update to the base version, but when we see version 3, it will be a happy day. Not that something is very wrong, but some solutions and improvements would be welcome. It's good that the test Megane was equipped with an 8,7-inch vertical screen. Management has become easier, most applications are opened using seemingly large buttons on the screen. However, some of them are too small, like the main menu banner. It's hard to hit while driving, but unfortunately the Megane doesn't have a screen control button that could come in handy for the driver, especially when driving over bad terrain and more bouncing the car. Then it is difficult to hit a small banner on the screen with your finger. But for the most part, the screen is impressive, especially the navigation, which uses the entire screen to draw a map. Looking at it is easy, fast and safe. Since the test car was labeled GT, of course, its essence is driving. Unlike the regular version, the GT boasts a sporty body.

The chassis is stiffer and sportier, which is felt in a normal and relaxed ride, but not overly so. It will be difficult to persuade grandparents to buy such a car, but a dynamic driver will love to drive. An added sweet spot is the 4Control four-wheel steering. Up to a speed of 60 kilometers per hour (in the selected sport mode up to 80 kilometers per hour), the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front, and above it in the same direction. The result is better maneuverability at low speeds and better stability and controllability at high speeds. Of course, without a powerful engine there is no sportiness. In the Megane GT test, it really was only 1,6-liter, but with the help of a turbocharger, it boasts 205 “horses”. Thus, the driver never stays dry, and there is always enough power and torque. Acceleration is good, although acceleration data from the city is not particularly impressive, especially when you consider the weight of the car, which is one of the smallest in the class. As with any turbocharged gasoline engine, fuel consumption is greatly affected by the driver's leg weight.

The average test is due to a fairly dynamic ride, so the fuel consumption data from the normal circle is more authoritative. But in general, a good 200 "horses" just need to be fed. Also commendable is the EDC dual-clutch automatic transmission, which shifts relatively quickly and without jamming. It has a slight problem with a smooth start, but only when the driver selects a sporty driving mode via the Multi-Sense system when the car just jumps. Also because the Multi-Sense system adjusts the response of the accelerator pedal, steering wheel, transmission, engine and chassis in the selected sport mode. In addition to the Sport program, the driver is also offered Comfort and Neutral and Perso, which the driver can customize to his liking and wishes. But the Megane GT rides well regardless of the driving style chosen.

The chassis works well, we can be a little resentful of the ESP system making it difficult to go too fast, as it seems like the Megane will be able to corner even faster without the ESP power limit, and it's just as safe and reliable. . The driver also has a projection screen in the Megane GT, which is a cheaper version, which means a small screen rises from the top of the dash. Compared to peers, Renault is one of the best, but we still do not recommend it. It's a (too) cheap version, and it's the only one that projects data directly onto the windshield. Of course, there are still plenty of safety and assistance systems available, many of which are available at an additional cost, but now a customer may also wish for them in a Renault or Megane.

Among other things, the test car was also equipped with an automatic high-beam / low-beam headlamp switching system that continues to run on high beam for (too) long, causing oncoming drivers to “advertise” the headlights. Perhaps also because the Megan's headlights can now be fully diode (test car), but with an annoying blue edging. The driver gets used to it over time, or even with the oncoming driver clearly. Overall Renault appears to have done well. The Megane project has been successfully completed, now clients are on the move. And of course, marketers who have to successfully and benevolently (read with an affordable price and discounts) bring the car to the end customer. However, with a good product, this made the task much easier.

Sebastian Plevnyak, photo: Sasha Kapetanovich

Renault Megan GT 205 EDC S&S

Basic data

Sales:	Renault Nissan Slovenia Ltd.
Base model price:	€ 24.890 XNUMX €
Test model cost:	€ 27.820 XNUMX €
Power:	151kW (205 KM)
Acceleration (0-100 km / h):	7,6 with
Maximum speed:	230 km / h
Guarantee:	General warranty two years without mileage limitation, paint warranty 3 years, rust warranty 12 years, the possibility of extending the warranty.

Cost (up to 100.000 km or five years)

Regular services, works, materials:	801 €
Fuel:	7.050 €
Tires (1)	1.584 €
Loss of value (within 5 years):	9.147 €
Compulsory insurance:	2.649 €
CASCO INSURANCE (+ B, K), AO, AO +	6.222 (
Calculate the cost of auto insurance
Buy up	€ 27.453 0,27 (km cost: XNUMX) €)

Technical information

engine:	4-cylinder - 4-stroke - in-line - turbocharged petrol - front transverse mounted - bore and stroke 79,7 × 81,1 mm - displacement 1.618 cm3 - compression 10,5:1 - maximum power 151 kW (205 l .s.) at 6.000 rpm - average piston speed at maximum power 16,2 m / s - specific power 93,3 kW / l (126,9 hp / l) - maximum torque 280 Nm at 2.400 rpm - 2 overhead camshafts (chain) - 4 valves per cylinder - common rail fuel injection - exhaust gas turbocharger - aftercooler.
Energy transfer:	the engine drives the front wheels - 7-speed EDC dual clutch transmission - np ratios - 7,5 J × 18 rims - 225/40 R 18 V tires, rolling range 1,92 m.
Capacity:	top speed 230 km/h – 0-100 km/h acceleration 7,1 s – average fuel consumption (ECE) 6,0 l/100 km, CO2 emissions 134 g/km.
Transportation and suspension:	limousine - 5 doors, 5 seats - self-supporting body - front single suspension, coil springs, three-spoke wishbones, stabilizer - rear axle shaft, coil springs, stabilizer - front disc brakes (forced cooling), rear disc brakes, ABS, electric parking brake rear wheels (switch between seats) - rack and pinion steering wheel, electric power steering, 2,4 turns between extreme points.
Mass:	empty vehicle 1.392 kg - permissible total weight 1.924 kg - permissible trailer weight with brake: 1.300 kg, without brake: 730 - permissible roof load: 80
External dimensions:	length 4.359 mm – width 1.814 mm, with mirrors 2.058 1.447 mm – height 2.669 mm – wheelbase 1.591 mm – track front 1.586 mm – rear 10,4 mm – ground clearance XNUMX m.
Inner dimensions:	longitudinal front 910-1.120 mm, rear 560-770 mm - front width 1.470 mm, rear 1.410 mm - head height front 920-1.000 mm, rear 920 mm - front seat length 510 mm, rear seat 470 mm - luggage compartment 434 - 1.247 370 l – handlebar diameter 50 mm – fuel tank XNUMX l.

Our measurements

Measurement conditions: T = 5 ° C / p = 1.028 mbar / rel. vl. = 56% / Tires: Bridgestone Blizzak LM 001 225/40 R 18 V / Odometer status: 2.300 km
Acceleration 0-100km:	7,6s
402m from the city:	15,5 years ( (150 km / h) km / h)
test consumption:	9,5 l / 100km
Fuel consumption according to the standard scheme:	6,3 l / 100km
Braking distance at 130 km / h:	74,3m
Braking distance at 100 km / h:	43,2m
AM table:	40m
Noise at 90 km / h in 6rd gear	58dB

Overall rating (339/420)

• After a long time, Renault again, which is impressive. He is approached not only by the driver, but also by the people. Otherwise, time will tell how all this will affect sales figures, but the start is more than good.

• Exterior (13/15)

  After a long time Renault, which again attracts the attention of passers-by.

• Interior (99/140)

  Like the exterior, the interior is commendable. Moreover, the test car was equipped with a large (and vertical!) Screen. We also praise the seats.

• Engine, transmission (58
  
  
  / 40)

  Only a 1,6-liter engine, but 205 horsepower is impressive, and a good chassis and dual-clutch transmission complement them.

• Driving performance (64
  
  
  / 95)

  Designed for dynamic driving and especially for a dynamic driver, but quiet driving is no stranger to him.

• Performance (26/35)

  A classic turbocharged petrol engine that pampers acceleration and, as a result, is irritated by gas mileage.

• Security (37/45)

  For an additional fee as a serial, but now completely safe for the buyer.
  
  
  - help systems.

• Economy (42/50)

  It is hard to convince anyone that such a machine is an economical purchase, but for what it offers, its price is more than attractive.

We praise and reproach

Transmission

engine

form

robust chassis

feeling inside

The blue edge of the front LED headlights interferes

large rear airbags obscure the rear view