The Renault Megane III 2.0 16V (140 Hp) CVT represents a key offering in the highly competitive European C-segment, a market segment characterized by compact family cars that blend practicality, efficiency, and driving dynamics. Produced from 2009 to 2012, this particular variant of the third-generation Megane hatchback showcased Renault’s commitment to providing accessible, comfortable, and well-equipped vehicles for the mass market. As a five-door, five-seat hatchback, it was designed to appeal to a broad demographic, from young families to urban commuters, seeking a versatile daily driver with a focus on ride comfort and modern features. While not officially sold in the United States, the Megane III played a crucial role in solidifying Renault’s position as a dominant force in the European automotive landscape, embodying the brand’s philosophy of “Vivre avec son temps” – living with one’s time – by offering contemporary design and technology.
Renault Megane III: A European Compact
The Renault Megane III, launched in 2008, was a significant redesign for the model, moving away from the more controversial styling of its predecessor. It aimed to provide a more mainstream and appealing design while retaining the practicality and affordability that had made the Megane a popular choice in Europe. The 2.0 16V CVT variant specifically targeted buyers seeking a balance between performance and fuel efficiency in a comfortable and well-equipped package. It competed directly with established rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Peugeot 308, offering a distinctly French alternative in a crowded market.
Engine & Performance
Under the hood of the Renault Megane III 2.0 16V (140 Hp) CVT lies a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter (1997 cc) inline four-cylinder petrol engine, designated M4R 711. This engine, mounted transversely at the front of the vehicle, delivers 140 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 195 Nm (143.82 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. The engine features a 10:1 compression ratio and a multi-port fuel injection system, coupled with four valves per cylinder, optimizing combustion and power delivery. This configuration allows for a 0 to 60 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration time of 9.8 seconds (10.3 seconds) and a top speed of 121.17 mph (195 km/h).
A key characteristic of this Megane variant is its Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the CVT provides a seamless and uninterrupted power delivery, enhancing fuel economy and offering a smooth driving experience, particularly in urban conditions. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg), and CO2 emissions are rated at 175 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards. The weight-to-power ratio is 9.2 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.6 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The third-generation Megane adopted a more conventional and refined aesthetic compared to previous iterations. The five-door hatchback body style provides excellent practicality, with dimensions of 169.09 inches (4295 mm) in length, 71.18 inches (1808 mm) in width (80.2 inches including mirrors), and 57.91 inches (1471 mm) in height. The 103.98-inch (2641 mm) wheelbase contributes to a comfortable ride and ample interior space.
Inside, the Megane III prioritizes driver and passenger comfort with quality materials and ergonomic design. The cabin comfortably accommodates five occupants, and the hatchback configuration offers versatile cargo solutions. Minimum trunk space is 14.3 cubic feet (405 liters), expanding to 41.04 cubic feet (1162 liters) with the rear seats folded. Standard safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a rack and pinion steering system with electric power assistance. The suspension utilizes an independent McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension, balancing ride comfort and handling. Braking is provided by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, and the vehicle is equipped with 205/50 R17 tires on 6.5J x 17-inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
| General Information | |
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Megane |
| Generation | Megane III |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 16V (140 Hp) CVT |
| Production Start | 2009 |
| Production End | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel Consumption (Urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 Emissions | 175 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum Speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission Standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp (109.3 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm (152.2 Nm/tonne) |
| Engine Specs | |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per liter | 70.1 Hp/l |
| 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 | 10:1 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel Injection System | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine Aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt) |
| Coolant Capacity | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt) |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 1281 kg (2824.12 lbs) |
| Max. Weight | 1783 kg (3930.84 lbs) |
| Max Load | 502 kg (1106.72 lbs) |
| Trunk Space (Minimum) | 405 l (14.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk Space (Maximum) | 1162 l (41.04 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal) |
| Max. Roof Load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs) |
| Permitted Trailer Load (with brakes) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs) |
| Permitted Trailer Load (without brakes) | 675 kg (1488.12 lbs) |
| Permitted Towbar Download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs) |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 4295 mm (169.09 in.) |
| Width | 1808 mm (71.18 in.) |
| Width (including mirrors) | 2037 mm (80.2 in.) |
| Height | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2641 mm (103.98 in.) |
| Front Track | 1546 mm (60.87 in.) |
| Rear 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 | 10.95 m (35.93 ft) |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension Specs | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front-wheel drive, Internal Combustion Engine |
| Drive Wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Gearbox Type | 1 gear, automatic transmission CVT |
| 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 |
| Tire Size | 205/50 R17 91 H |
| Wheel Rims Size | 6.5J x 17 |
The Renault Megane III, including the 2.0 16V (140 Hp) CVT variant, established itself as a significant contender in the European compact car market during its production. It competed with segment leaders like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, Opel Astra, Peugeot 308, and Citroën C4. The Megane III distinguished itself through its emphasis on comfort, safety, and distinctive French styling. Renault’s focus on safety, evidenced by excellent Euro NCAP ratings, combined with a comfortable ride, made it a popular choice for families. While not sold in the US, the Megane III’s success in Europe highlights its position as a well-engineered and competitive compact car of its generation.
