2014-2015 Renault Megane III Grandtour (Phase III ) 1.5 Energy dCi (130 Hp) ECO2 Start&Stop

The Renault Megane III Grandtour (Phase III), produced from 2014 to 2015, represents a significant refinement of Renault’s compact family car. This iteration of the Megane, a station wagon (estate) body style, was primarily aimed at the European market, offering a practical and efficient vehicle for families and individuals needing ample cargo space. The Phase III updates brought styling revisions, improved interior quality, and enhanced technology, solidifying the Megane Grandtour’s position as a competitive offering in the crowded C-segment. The 1.5 Energy dCi 130 Hp variant, equipped with the ECO2 Start&Stop system, focused on maximizing fuel economy and reducing emissions.

Renault Megane III Grandtour: A Detailed Overview

The Megane III, launched in 2008, was Renault’s attempt to move upmarket and compete more effectively with established rivals like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus. The Grandtour, the station wagon version, offered increased practicality without sacrificing the Megane’s core strengths – comfortable ride, decent handling, and a relatively spacious interior. The Phase III facelift, introduced in 2014, brought a more modern aesthetic and further improvements to the car’s overall refinement. While not officially sold in the United States, the Megane Grandtour exemplifies the European preference for efficient and versatile compact vehicles.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the 2014 Renault Megane III Grandtour 1.5 Energy dCi (130 Hp) is a 1.6-liter (1598 cm³) inline four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine, designated R9M, produces 130 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque. The high torque output, characteristic of diesel engines, provides strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, enhancing performance and efficiency. A diesel commonrail fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to both power and reduced emissions. The ECO2 Start&Stop system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, further improving fuel economy. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.1 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.6 seconds. The car has a top speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 10.4 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.2 kg/Nm.

Design & Features

The Renault Megane III Grandtour is a five-door, five-seat station wagon. The Phase III facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior, including a revised front grille, updated headlights, and a redesigned bumper. The interior received improvements in material quality and trim, creating a more premium feel. The Grandtour’s key selling point is its spacious cargo area. With the rear seats up, it offers 524 liters (18.5 cu. ft.) of luggage space, expanding to a generous 1595 liters (56.33 cu. ft.) with the seats folded down. Standard safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and the car met Euro 5 emission standards. The vehicle utilizes an electric power steering system and a six-speed manual transmission. The suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and a torsion beam arrangement at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The car rides on 17-inch wheels with 205/50 R17 tires.

Technical Specifications