1.5 dCi 110 Dynamique S Nav Auto 5dr Hatchback

A return to form for Renault

The new Megane is a revelation and a return to form for Renault. Firstly, it is a beautiful design, and a real head-turner in the crowded family hatchback sector. The lights give the car an upmarket and distinctive look, and the paint quality is deep and lustrous. Little touches, such as the side crease running through the doors, show a design flair missing from the last model, and proportionately the Megane just works, even managing to look better in the flesh than in the photographs.

Inside, you are met with a modern, well-crafted and well-thought-out cabin that is from a league above the Megane's list price, particularly if you choose the models with the larger "Tesla-esque" portrait touchscreen. The abundance of technology and personalisation options is a little overwhelming at first, but it soon makes so much sense; becoming intuitive and valuable. Every journey can be tailored and it makes the experience a little more special and rewarding.

The seats are terrific, front and back, although you would crave a few more inches of rear legroom if you intended to take adult passengers on long journeys regularly, but comfort and support is unrivalled in this class. The Megane is also spookily quiet and refined, with almost no engine noise whatsoever and there's no irritating wind noise either. In fact it's so hushed it can be difficult to tell if the engine is running or not. The 1.5 dci is great in-gear and feels more powerful overall than the figures would suggest. It makes for an effortless drive.

My favourite feature of the Megane is the ride quality. Class-leading wouldn't do it justice, as it's smoother and engineered for comfort more than you'll find in most other brands - like French cars of old, without the lolloping around corners. Grip is excellent and the handling is good, although it's true to say the Focus edges it in terms of cornering prowess and feedback. Yet the Megane is still definitely fun to drive on a country road, and certainly more relaxed than the sportier, jittery competition. Renault have made this a great car to cover distance without fatigue, which I think adds to the list of safety features that already adorn the car.

Boot space is good, fuel economy so far with this EDC automatic is in the low 50s, and the gearbox is far better than the reviews would suggest - the changes are seamless and I've never been left in the wrong gear.

I'd struggle to think of a more serene, good-looking, technologically advanced and individual choice of family car. If refinement is top of your list, it's hard to beat. It might not sell as well as its mainstream rivals, but I'm pleased I joined this slightly secret, slightly more exclusive club.

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