The new Renault Mégane range introduced in July 2013 is finally complete with the arrival of the new 1.2-litre turbocharged, direct injection petrol engine, delivering the most frugal Mégane yet.
The new engine, similar to that fitted to the all-new Renault Clio light car launched in September, is a member of the reduced capacity range that delivers impressive fuel consumption of only 5.6-litres per 100 km on the combined cycle, thanks to many technological advances including automatic engine Start&Stop.
This Start&Stop technology made its Australian market debut in a Renault in the top of the range Mégane GT 220 model in July and in certain models of the new Clio in September.
This Euro 5 emission standard compliant engine is state-of-the-art and allows the Mégane Expression 1.2 manual to emit only 132g/km of CO2.
The 1.2-litre four-cylinder, available only with a 6-speed manual transmission, produces a healthy 97kW of power at 5,500rpm and is backed by a punchy 205Nm of torque from only 2,000rpm, endowing the entry-level model with very respectable performance, reaching 100km/h from standstill in just 10.9 seconds.
The existing Mégane Expression Hatch automatic model continues to be available with the proven 2.0-litre petrol engine driving through a continuously variable transmission.
Fuel consumption is not the only feature that is lower than before, with the Mégane Expression Hatch petrol manual model reaching the market priced at $20,990 (Manufacture’s List Price).
However, until 15 November 2013, this entry Mégane variant will be available at the astonishingly attractive price of $19,990 drive-away across the 34-strong Renault dealer network. The Mégane Expression Hatch automatic is also available from 21,990 drive-away during the same period.
“We have been very heartened by the response to the new range of Mégane models we launched in Australia in August, and we are expecting the new entry model to be very popular,” says Justin Hocevar, Managing Director of Renault Australia.
“We are confident that this well equipped car, with its new state-of-the-art engine and its very low running costs will be well received by shoppers in the ultra competitive and very crowded small car market.
“Renault has long been the home of fun, frugal and feature-rich vehicles for customers across Europe. We are determined to emulate these characteristics in Australia through an active product programme that brings our very rewarding cars within the reach of the largest sectors of the car buying public.
“With this attractive price positioning and low running costs, coupled with our customer-friendly 5-years/unlimited km factory warranty, Capped Price Servicing, Renault Financial Services and new Renault Insurance, we have the complete package with which to tackle the market,” he says.
The Renault Mégane Expression petrol manual goes on sale from 1 October 2013.
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