1996 Renault Megane RT review from UK and Ireland

Catalyst failed at 40000 miles.

Premature rusting around rear wheel arches and tailgate.

Front springs needed replacing at around 100,000 miles.

Some electrical faults including a short in the lighting circuit which caused the engine to run on if you kept your foot on the brake after switching the ignition off.

This car has generally been very reliable, the only major glitch being the catalyst failure.

The rust is more worrying, but I have yet to see another Megane with a similar problem.

Dynamically, the Megane is nothing special. Performance from the 1.4 8-valve engine is disappointing, particularly below 4000rpm. That said, it never fails to start first time and noise levels are low, even at motorway speeds.

Handling is sloppy, but there's plenty of grip and the ride is very good. The brakes are excellent.

Interior looks very tired now, but its not too bad considering mileage.

At first I found the driving position awkward, but have since got used to the cramped foot-well and offset pedals.

Considering most major components (including the original alternator and clutch) are still going strong, I don't have much to complain about.