The Renault Megane III (Phase II), produced from 2012 to 2013, represents a significant refresh of the third-generation Megane compact hatchback. Primarily aimed at the European market, the Megane III competed with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Peugeot 308. The Phase II update brought styling revisions, interior enhancements, and updated engine options, focusing on improved efficiency and refinement. This particular variant, the 1.5 dCi (90 Hp) FAP, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and practical family car.
Renault Megane III (Phase II): A Detailed Overview
The Megane III, launched in 2008, aimed to elevate Renault’s presence in the competitive C-segment. The Phase II revision, introduced in 2012, addressed some criticisms of the original model, particularly regarding interior quality and perceived value. The 1.5 dCi engine, a mainstay of Renault’s diesel lineup, was offered in various power outputs, with the 90 horsepower version prioritizing fuel economy. The “FAP” designation indicates the inclusion of a Diesel Particulate Filter, designed to reduce harmful emissions and meet increasingly stringent European emission standards.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Megane III 1.5 dCi (90 Hp) is a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated K9K 834. This engine produces 90 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. A diesel commonrail fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to both power output and reduced emissions. The engine’s 15.2:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, maximizing combustion efficiency. Paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, the Megane 1.5 dCi achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 12.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph). Fuel economy is a key strength, with combined cycle consumption rated at 4.0 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg), and CO2 emissions of 104 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Renault Megane III Phase II is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. The exterior design features revised front and rear styling, including a new grille, headlights, and taillights. The interior received updates with improved materials and a redesigned dashboard. The Megane III prioritizes practicality with a trunk (boot) space of 405 liters (14.3 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 1162 liters (41.04 cu. ft.) when folded down. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features, crucial for modern vehicles, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and driver/passenger airbags. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 1215 kg (2678.62 lbs) contributes to its relatively nimble handling. The McPherson independent front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension provide a balance between comfort and handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Megane |
| Generation | Megane III (Phase II, 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 dCi (90 Hp) FAP |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg, 78.5 UK mpg, 27.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 104 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.5 kg/Hp, 74.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 164.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1750 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K 834 |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1215 kg (2678.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1762 kg (3884.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 547 kg (1205.93 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 405 l (14.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1162 l (41.04 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 645 kg (1421.98 lbs.) |
| Length | 4295 mm (169.09 in.) |
| Width | 1808 mm (71.18 in.) |
| Height | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2641 mm (103.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1546 mm (60.87 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Front overhang | 862 mm (33.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 792 mm (31.18 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.95 m (35.93 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| 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 |
