CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 36.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 300
Average Price: Around £5,500

Renault Megane (2016-2022) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Impressively comfortable ride	Doesn't excel in any one area
Punchy, efficient engines	Questionable reliability record
Effective plug-in version	Infotainment awkward to use

Quick Summary

The Renault Megane (2016-2022) is a stylish French family hatchback that offers a comfortable ride and punchy, efficient engines. With its big LED running lights and near-full-width tail light clusters, it presents an appealing exterior, whilst the interior features robust materials and intuitive design. The rear seats provide adequate space for passengers, though not quite as generous as some rivals, and the boot is fairly spacious. An estate version is available for those requiring additional practicality. The plug-in hybrid E-Tech variant makes particular sense as a company car thanks to its low CO2 emissions, though private buyers should be aware of significant depreciation.

The Megane drives in a relaxed manner, delivering a comfortable and quiet ride that makes it a good motorway cruiser. However, it lacks the sporting credentials of some competitors, with soft suspension and unevenly weighted steering limiting performance on challenging roads. The Renaultsport (RS) variants—available in standard, Trophy, and extreme Trophy-R forms—offer considerably more excitement and agility, though they command premium prices. Petrol engines achieve around 40-45mpg, whilst diesel versions deliver approximately 55mpg. Running costs are reasonable, though depreciation and Renault's mixed reliability record are considerations. The petrol engine features a timing chain requiring no replacement, whilst the diesel requires a timing belt change every six years or 90,000 miles.

Best for: Buyers seeking a comfortable, well-equipped family hatchback with efficient engines, particularly those considering the plug-in hybrid as a company car, and enthusiasts interested in the thrilling RS performance variants.

Not ideal for: Those prioritising driving dynamics, maximum interior space, or excellent long-term value retention, and buyers concerned about manufacturer reliability records.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Megane if: You prioritise comfort and a relaxed driving experience, seek efficient engines with reasonable running costs, or are interested in the thrilling RS performance variants.

Consider alternatives if: You value superior driving dynamics, maximum interior space, excellent long-term value retention, or prefer manufacturers with stronger reliability records.

Competitive Position: The Renault Megane (2016-2022) is a pleasant and well-equipped family hatchback that delivers comfort and efficiency. However, it occupies a middle ground without excelling in any particular area. The Ford Focus offers superior driving dynamics, the Volkswagen Golf provides a more premium feel and better residuals, and the Skoda Octavia delivers greater spaciousness. The Seat Leon stands out as a more modern and cost-effective all-rounder. Renault's mixed reliability record and the Megane's predicted heavy depreciation are significant considerations, though the plug-in hybrid variant makes compelling sense for company car users seeking low CO2 emissions and tax benefits.

Read our full Renault Megane Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.