2024 Renault Megane E-Tech: A sleek electric SUV that doesn't burden the planet
The Renault Megane E-Tech has a unique style, precise handling and a comfortable ride
Long before its launch in Australia, the all-new Renault Megane E-Tech has been praised by its UK and European peers as being considered a cut above its competitors.
After spending more than a week in the hustle and bustle of Sydney, it's easy to see why this petite (proportional) electric car has garnered so much applause and praise from its owners.
From a design point of view, it has a strong French touch.
With the influx of Chinese EV brands and a large number of Tesla vehicles (also made in China) driving on our streets, the Renault Megane E-Tech Techno EV60 (its full name means battery size), along with the Cupra Born, remains one of the few European models in this segment.
Its hatchback body and compact proportions are deceptive. That's why Renault calls the Megane E-Tech a crossover SUV, as both labels seem to be right here.
Since the floor of the second-row seats is flat and the trunk is the right size, the interior space is very spacious. There is no trunk (under-hood storage), but there is a separate underfloor compartment for charging cables, which is larger than expected.
The Megane E-Tech is a battery-electric vehicle with well-established engineering capabilities, particularly in ride, handling, and steering.
Reassuringly, the car is powered by the dedicated EV platform used by Renault's high-performance electric vehicle brand Alpine. Its steering and handling are excellent, not to mention excellent ride comfort on all kinds of bumps and rough roads.
While the styling at both ends is avant-garde with understated glass houses and large wheels, the Megane E-Tech's hatchback body also looks relatively traditional.
This is a good thing for those looking to transition from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles to 100% electric vehicles for the first time.
In addition to the long list of standard kits, there are some key aesthetic features that I love, including the cool light signature that combines the LED display (front and back) as you approach the car, as well as animated turn signals.
It also has the best self-retractable flush door handle in the industry, thanks to its innovative and practical design, which is equipped with a grappling hook at one end for a secure grip.
For those who identify with the book "No Planet B" on climate change, you'll be pleased to know that Megane E-Tech is over 90% recyclable, with no less than 28kg of recycled plastic and fabric used in the dashboard, center console and headrests.
To some, this may not seem like a big deal, but no matter how trivial it may seem in the grand scale of climate change initiatives, it reflects a sincere effort to do the right thing.
Climb aboard the Megane E-Tech and you'll find that the car's cockpit is one of the more fun and higher-quality cabins in this relatively affordable EV category, including recycled fabrics and plastics. Take, for example, the leather-wrapped contoured steering wheel, which reminds me of the shockingly expensive Aston Martin DB12.
It's flat at both ends, but it's just as nice to the touch. There are paddle shifters, but they are not used to shift gears. Instead, these paddle shifters provide four levels of regenerative braking. If you're looking to be more involved in driving, they can also have upshifts and downshifts like gear ratios.
Not only does the leather-inspired interior mix with recycled fabrics and contrasting stitching look modern and stylish, but the seats are also well supported without compromising the overall comfort of the two rows of seats.
Hats off to the ergonomics experts who have successfully fused cutting-edge infotainment systems with traditional buttons and switches to provide a simple and intuitive experience for first-time EV riders.
This alone can change the buying habits of some buyers. The car is equipped with a number of advanced technologies, including a large 12.3-inch digital driving display and a 9.0-inch touchscreen for crisp images and quick responses.
In addition to the previously mentioned ergonomics, there are wireless (and wired) smartphone mirroring and charging features that make the user experience stress-free.
The Megane E-Tech is also equipped with a multi-sensory system that allows the driver to set one of four experiences (modes). The ambient lighting is available in 48 colors and can be programmed to change color throughout the day – a feature Renault refers to as "the light of life".
Renault has equipped the Megane E-Tech with a range of luxury features, including 20-inch Soren wheels, adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams, a key card with keyless entry with "away" locking, and smart mirrors that allow the driver to switch between standard rearview and wide-angle camera-based views.
Audiophiles will love the Arkamys sound system; Don't worry about the six speakers, because it sounds better than many 12-speaker systems I've heard in more expensive cars.
There are also front, rear and side parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, and a full suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to ensure a five-star ANCAP safety rating.
Before jumping into the driver's seat to experience a robust electric car launch, it's worth noting the eco-sensitivities of manufacturing beyond the cab.
Its 60kWh battery is only 110mm thick, making it one of the thinnest batteries in the world and has a 99% recyclability rate.
The same ultra-slim battery also lowers its centre of gravity for smooth cornering and good body control, as does its advanced multi-link rear suspension.
It's extremely compliant and can absorb the most intense bumps without compromising its dexterous handling. In this area, it is a benchmark.
In addition, it is one of the lightest electric vehicles we have seen in this segment. It's mostly made of aluminium and weighs just 1642 kg – lighter than its closest competitor, which is a key factor in its handling so well.
You can't say the same for most electric cars because most of them are very heavy.
Even better, the automotive manufacturing process also brings direct environmental benefits. After stamping and cutting lightweight body panels, all aluminum scrap is sent back to the supplier for recycling.
Renault calls it a "closed loop" of a circular economy approach to automotive manufacturing.
Dynamically, it's way ahead, behaving more like its traditional petrol-engined predecessor Megane in terms of power delivery, braking and steering.
For that matter, its steering is very fast, with only 2.3 turns of the steering wheel to go from lock to lock.
This is a true supercar spec and another factor that enhances the driving experience. Not only is this car as agile as a cat that makes you smile, but the 10.4-meter turning radius makes ordinary maneuvers like three-point turns and U-turns a breeze.
And then there's the motor itself. It weighs only 145 kilograms and does not contain any rare earth metals. You can't say that Renault isn't trying to reduce its environmental impact.
It has plenty of power. Not only is the Megane E-Tech off to a fast start, but it's not as intimidatingly fast as many other electric vehicles.
This is probably the most linear electric vehicle in its class, offering a more natural pedal feel and power delivery, as well as braking and steering controls.
Despite its relatively small battery of 60kWh, it has a range of up to 454 km in a WLTP test cycle in more economical driving modes.
Home AC charging can reach up to 7.4kW, while fast charging stations can charge up to 130kW, so charging from 15% to 80% takes about 35 minutes, adding about 300 km of range.
Starting at $54,990 (excluding tolls), the Renault Megane E-Tech is an attractive option as one of the most user-friendly electric crossovers in the big city – it's not only uniquely styled, but also precise and comfortable to ride, and easy to maneuver in the tightest of places.
Let's face it, there's nothing like this versatile electric car that evokes a Parisian vibe, and it's equipped with a range of cool technologies that make it a great place to commute every day.