Used Renault Megane CC 2002 - 2009 review

The Renault Megane CC uses the electrically folding metal roof concept made famous by the Mercedes Benz SLK, and is far more civilised than the old soft-top Megane convertible.

The Megane is a four-seater, but if the driver and front-seat passenger are six-footers, there's not much room in the back. Likewise, with the roof down, the boot is only big enough for a few small bags.

Don't think of this Renault Megane as a sports coupe that can change into a sports convertible at the press of a button, though. The Megane CC is a cruiser, with the emphasis on comfort rather than excitement.

Try to hustle it down twisty country roads and you'll be disappointed. There's a fair amount of body lean through corners, and when the roof's down, bad road surfaces cause the whole car to shudder.

Opting for diesel power might cost more initially but it will save you time and money at the pumps, and even the most powerful option has an average economy of just under 50mpg. The petrols aren't bad and you should expect 35-40mpg.

Renault dealers are numerous, and keeping the Megane CC maintained should not be expensive, as long as you shop around for the best prices.

The Megane's biggest competition comes from the Peugeot 307 CC; newer models like the VW Eos and Ford Focus CC are effectively in a higher price bracket.

There's not much to choose between the two French cars, and although the 307 holds on to slightly more of its value, the Megane is cheaper to buy in the first place.

The CC got more engines than its predecessor - including diesels for the first time. There was a mild face-lift in 2006, which improved the engines and added some cosmetic tweaks.

The entry 1.6 petrol is too small, but the 2.0-litre petrol, or 1.9-litre diesel with either 106bhp or 130bhp, are much better. If you want to really move, the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit is good. However the 2.0-litre 150bhp diesel option is probably the best all-round choice, if you can stretch to it.

There is a four-speed auto option on the 130bhp diesel, but it's expensive and noticeably dents fuel economy. The more powerful engines come with a six-speed manual gearbox, but the five-speed 'box on lesser models is more satisfying to use.

Base Extreme models miss out on air-con, so we'd look out Dynamique models. Top-spec Privilege comes with climate control, CD changer and part-leather interior.

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