2016 Renault Megane priced from £16,600

“We poured all our know-how into ensuring the GT would be both comfortable and a joy to drive,” said Patrice Ratti, managing director of Renault Sport. “It’s the perfect solution for buyers looking for performance, excitement and enjoyment at the wheel.”

The exterior design of the Mégane GT is also sportier than that of the standard models. It gets extra grilles, twin exhausts and a rear diffuser, while the interior has the hallmarks of more extreme Renault Sport models, including wraparound seats, pedals finished in aluminium and enhanced stitching and materials.

The driver can select between five driving modes on all Méganes, ranging from Eco to Sport.

On GT models, Sport mode is upgraded to RS Drive and will offer the sportiest dynamic set-up of any of the new range - prior to the anticipated arrival of a Mégane RS.

Each mode modifies accelerator and engine responses as well as adapting the speed of gearshifts. There are also more comfort-orientated modes that adapt the action of the massage seats and the cabin lighting.

Design

The Mégane’s more grown-up looks are notably different in character from those of the Clio, Captur and Kadjar. Instead, it has been designed to appeal to more mature buyers and is in keeping with the larger Renault Talisman and Espace, which aren’t sold in the UK. Most notably, the Mégane carries a new, C-shaped headlight signature and a horizontal graphic on the rear that accentuates the car’s stance. Higher-end models will feature full LED headlights and tail-lights as standard.

The new Mégane is longer, lower and wider than the outgoing model and as a result is more spacious inside. There’s a 2cm increase in rear knee space, and the boot volume of 434 litres is significantly up on that of rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus.

Renault says it has put extra effort into the fit, finish and quality of the materials used. “Renault can produce cars with a Latin skin and a German heart,” said design boss Laurens van den Acker.

Technology

Renault has improved the interior quality of standard models, with all but the base models getting a full colour head-up display and a 7.0in multimedia display. As well as lending the cabin a modern feel, the head-up display allows the driver to stay focused on the road while simultaneously reading speed, navigation and driving aid instructions.

UK specifications include adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, lane departure warning, speed limit warning and blind spot monitoring. Automatic headlights, a reversing camera, parking sensors and a hands-free parking function will also be available.

Highest-spec models get an 8.7in touchscreen in place of the 7.0in version. It replaces numerous cabin buttons and allows the control of the satellite navigation, apps, radio and phone connection.