Renault Megane E-Tech review: performance, motor & drive
Refinement and ride comfort are both excellent in the first zero-emissions Megane, and there’s plenty of power for an electric family car
| 0-62mph | Top speed | Driven wheels | Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7.5s | 99mph | Front | 217bhp |
Weighing at over 1.6 tonnes, the Renault Megane E-Tech is quite a bit heavier than previous generation Meganes, but you’d never know that from the driver’s seat. Performance is strong thanks to a 217bhp electric motor powering the front wheels, and even riding on relatively large 20-inch alloy wheels, the electric hatchback’s ride is very comfortable. Rear visibility isn’t great though.
Renault Megane E-Tech 0-62mph, top speed and acceleration
Renault says 0-62mph in the Megane E-Tech takes 7.5 seconds, but it does feel faster. Floor the accelerator and you’re hit with an instant wave of torque (300Nm) that shoves you back in your seat, but after that initial kick the power delivery is very smooth all the way up to motorway speeds.
The 217bhp the Megane E-Tech’s single electric motor produces might not sound like a lot, but it’s plenty for overtaking on the motorway and blasting along country roads. Though being front wheel drive, the front tyres can scramble for grip if you’re a bit too overzealous with your right foot.
Handling
Aside from a slight tendency to fidget on the road at lower speeds, the Megane E-Tech is a composed, comfortable and very refined electric family car. Light, quick steering helps when driving around town and manoeuvring in tight car parks, and even when riding on 20-inch wheels, potholes and bumps are rounded off nicely. Head out of town and get on the motorway, and the Megane E-Tech excels; very little road or wind noise makes its way into the cabin. It’s good to drive on a twisty B-road, but it isn't quite as fun as the MG4 EV.
