The Renault Megane III Grandtour (Phase II), produced from 2012 to 2013, represents a significant iteration of Renault’s popular compact family car. This version, specifically the 2.0 16V (140 Hp) model equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), was primarily aimed at the European market, offering a practical and relatively efficient station wagon (estate) body style. The Megane III series, launched in 2008, aimed to elevate Renault’s presence in the competitive C-segment, focusing on design, quality, and driving dynamics. The Grandtour variant, in particular, catered to buyers needing increased cargo capacity without sacrificing the style and comfort of a hatchback.
Renault Megane III Grandtour: An Overview
The Megane III Grandtour Phase II benefited from a mid-life refresh, incorporating styling updates, improved interior materials, and enhanced technology. The 2.0 16V engine, paired with the CVT, provided a balance between performance and fuel economy, making it a suitable choice for both urban commuting and longer journeys. While not officially sold in the United States, the Megane III Grandtour exemplifies the European approach to compact family vehicles, prioritizing versatility and efficiency.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2012 Renault Megane III Grandtour 2.0 16V is a naturally aspirated 1997 cc (121.86 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 140 horsepower (Hp) at 6000 rpm and 195 Newton-meters (143.82 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3750 rpm. The power-to-liter ratio is 70.1 Hp/l. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a compression ratio of 9.8:1. The engine, designated M4R 711, is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle.
Power is delivered to the front wheels via a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This transmission offers smooth, stepless gear changes, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.6 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 10.1 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 195 km/h (121.17 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 9.4 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.8 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Renault Megane III Grandtour is a five-door station wagon (estate) offering seating for five passengers. Its design emphasizes flowing lines and a modern aesthetic. The Phase II update included revised front and rear styling, with a more prominent Renault badge and updated headlight and taillight designs. The Grandtour body style provides a significantly larger cargo area compared to the hatchback version.
The interior of the Megane III Grandtour is designed with practicality and comfort in mind. Features include a user-friendly dashboard layout, comfortable seating, and a range of available equipment depending on the trim level. Safety features, crucial for this generation of vehicle, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and driver and passenger airbags. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4559 mm (179.49 in) in length, 1766 mm (69.53 in) in width, and 1461 mm (57.52 in) in height. The wheelbase measures 2703 mm (106.42 in). Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 524 liters (18.5 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1595 liters (56.33 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Megane |
| Generation | Megane III Grandtour (Phase II, 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 16V (140 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 175 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 195 Nm @ 3750 rpm (143.82 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M4R 711 |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.1 mm (3.55 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1317 kg (2903.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1878 kg (4140.28 lbs.) |
| Max load | 561 kg (1236.79 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 524 l (18.5 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1595 l (56.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 695 kg (1532.21 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4559 mm (179.49 in.) |
| Width | 1766 mm (69.53 in.) |
| Height | 1461 mm (57.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2703 mm (106.42 in.) |
| Front track | 1546 mm (60.87 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.05 m (36.25 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 91H |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
The Renault Megane III Grandtour Phase II 2.0 16V CVT offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, comfortable, and reasonably efficient station wagon. While not available in the US market, it represents a well-engineered example of a popular European vehicle segment.
