Renault Megane hybrid: E-TECH drivetrain comes to hatch and estate

The revised Renault Megane, which goes on sale in summer 2020, sees a plug-in hybrid drivetrain option added to the Volkswagen Golf-rivalling family hatchback for the first time. Unlike the Renault Clio E-TECH, but similar to the Renault Captur E-TECH, the electrified Megane E-TECH will be a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). The 158bhp drivetrain combines a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine with a 9.8kWh battery.

Driving on electric power alone will be possible at speeds up to nearly 85mph and Renault expects the Megane to be able to travel for 31 miles in pure-electric mode before the petrol engine has to be called on. Three driving modes will be available: 'MySense' (which will automatically mix electric and engine power for the best efficiency), 'Pure' (which will keep the car in purely electric mode for as long as possible) and 'Sport' (which will offer maximum power at the expense of some efficiency).

No official fuel consumption or CO2 emissions figures have been released yet, but Renault anticipates the Megane E-TECH will emit 40g/km of CO2. This drivetrain will initially be offered in the more practical Megane Estate, before making an appearance in the five-door Megane hatchback at a later date. In the estate, the addition of the hybrid system reduces boot volume from 580 and 1,504 litres respectively with the seats up and down, to 434 and 1,427 litres respectively.

All models and bodystyles in the revised Megane line-up will benefit from interior upgrades, including (on certain specifications) a 10.2-inch instrument screen and a 9.3-inch vertically orientated infotainment touchscreen with a revised user interface inspired by smartphones. The system, called EASY LINK, is available in seven-inch, seven-inch with sat nav and 9.3-inch with sat nav versions depending on the exact trim level chosen.

Enhanced driver assistance systems on the revised Megane include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance (optional on the E-TECH), automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, improved blind-spot warning and driver drowsiness detection. 'Pure Vision' LED headlights, a redesigned front bumper, more pronounced wings, new alloy-wheel designs and a new 'R.S. Line' trim level, replacing the existing 'GT Line' equipment grade, will also feature.