► New four-door Megane
► Meet the Grand Coupe
► Not destined for UK sale
Meet another Renault denied to UK buyers: it’s the four-door Megane Grand Coupe, with a striking glass roof unique among compact saloons.
Despite the name, this essentially replaces the Megane saloon. Renault’s number-crunching suggests it won’t sell strongly over here, so it’s not being imported for British sale.
It’s the third new Megane derivative after the hatchback and Sport Tourer estate.
Why isn’t Renault selling the Megane Grand Coupe in the UK?
A quick look at its target markets says all you need to know: it’ll be sold in places like Algeria, Israel and Saudi Arabia, as well as Bulgaria, Hungary and Slovenia. Interestingly, it will be sold in Ireland and Australia, so right-hand drive is not a barrier.
It’s basically aimed at eastern Europe and the Middle East, rather than Renault’s heartland western base. These territories favour the compact four-door, whereas Brits can be quite snobby about mainstream saloons.
Specs, details
Under the skin, the Turkish-built Megane Grand Coupe is based on regular Megane hardware, dubbed Common Module Family (CMF). This brings a slew of gadgetry (TFT digital dials, 8.7in touchscreen display, auto-brake and the like) plus a decent 508-litre boot with an automatic, waggle-foot-to-open feature.
Renault plans to offer a line-up that will include two petrols and a trio of diesels:
- SCe 115 Five-speed manual or CVT auto
- TCe 130 Six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch EDC
- dCi 90 Six-speed manual
- dCi 110 Six-speed manual or six-speed dual-clutch EDC
- dCi 130 Six-speed manual gearbox
Seems a shame it’s not coming to the UK, judging by this first photos of a neat four-door style. Look out for it at rental malls if you travel to eastern Europe and the Middle East.
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