1999 Renault Megane Coupe Sport review from UK and Ireland

Driver's side electric window crunched when it was lowered and could not be raised. The cable had snapped and was replaced.

Driver's side control for passenger electric window failed, passenger side still works though.

New front and rear exhaust sections, original 'cat' still OK.

I bought this car from my brother in-law who purchased it as the demo model from new. I knew it had been looked after and it was trade price. It's a good looking car and fairly discreet (in black anyway), and it has proved to be very economical to run. Insurance is cheap (group 8), it will do around 35mpg around town and it has been very reliable with only minor problems.

It may not handle as well as a Saxo VTR or Fiesta Zetec-S, but it's just as quick and you get more car for your money. It's fully loaded with electrical equipment with a good stereo; safety equipment is good too with 4 airbags.

On the downside there's not much room inside, especially the 2 back seats and the front does not have a lot of headroom (mainly because of the sunroof). The boot is reasonably sized, but has a small opening so cannot take larger items.

Despite being a 16 valve, the engine does not thrive on revs and becomes harsh as you approach the low 6,000-rpm limit. It's also a bit loud when you're cruising at about 80-85mph showing around 4,000-rpm. The gearbox is very sweet, with a positive shift, however the steering could do with more feel and a slightly quicker rack.