The Renault Megane III CC, specifically the 1.4 Energy TCe (132 Hp) Start&Stop variant, was a significant offering within the European compact coupe-cabriolet segment during its production run from 2013 to 2014. As part of the third generation of the popular Megane lineup, the Coupe-Cabriolet (CC) model emphasized a blend of stylish design, open-air driving pleasure, and modern powertrain efficiency. While Renault has a limited presence in the United States market, the Megane III CC played a crucial role in its home continent, showcasing the brand’s commitment to diverse body styles and innovative engine technology. This particular iteration, featuring the advanced Energy TCe engine and Start&Stop system, aimed to deliver a compelling balance of performance and fuel economy, catering to consumers seeking both driving enjoyment and reduced running costs in a sophisticated package.
Renault Megane III CC: A European Open-Air Design
The Megane III CC represented Renault’s attempt to capture a segment dominated by brands like Peugeot and Volkswagen. It offered a retractable hardtop, providing the security and refinement of a coupe with the open-air experience of a convertible. The “CC” designation stands for Coupe-Cabriolet, highlighting its dual nature. The 1.4 Energy TCe model was positioned as a fuel-efficient and accessible option within the range, appealing to buyers who prioritized practicality alongside style.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Megane III CC 1.4 Energy TCe lies a 1,198 cubic centimeter (approximately 1.2 liters) turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine. Despite being marketed as a “1.4,” this engine displacement reflects a common automotive industry practice of using performance-equivalent designations. Codenamed H4J, the engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to produce 132 horsepower at 5,500 revolutions per minute and 151.2 pound-feet of torque at 2,000 rpm. This broad torque band provides responsive acceleration and flexible driving characteristics in both urban and highway environments.
Power is delivered to the front wheels via a precise 6-speed manual transmission. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 118.06 miles per hour, and acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes 10.6 seconds. The “Energy TCe” designation signifies Renault’s focus on fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The standard Start&Stop system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, restarting it seamlessly when the driver prepares to move. This feature contributes to an urban fuel economy of 30.2 US miles per gallon, 42.8 US mpg on the highway, and a combined average of 36.8 US mpg. CO2 emissions are rated at 145 grams per kilometer, meeting the stringent Euro 5 emission standard.
Design & Features
The Renault Megane III CC is characterized by its elegant coupe-cabriolet body style, offering the versatility of a fixed-roof coupe and the exhilaration of an open-top convertible. Its design language is sleek and contemporary, featuring smooth lines and a balanced profile regardless of whether the retractable hardtop is up or down. The two-door configuration emphasizes its sporty character, while the four-seat interior provides practical accommodation for passengers, though rear legroom is limited, typical of this segment.
With the hardtop deployed, the Megane III CC presents a refined coupe silhouette, offering enhanced security and weather protection. The transformation to an open-air cruiser is executed with an electro-hydraulic mechanism, neatly stowing the roof into the trunk. This impacts cargo capacity, ranging from 7.45 cubic feet with the roof stowed to 14.73 cubic feet when closed. The cabin prioritizes comfort and ergonomics, featuring a user-friendly dashboard layout, quality materials, and convenience features like climate control and an audio system. Safety features include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and ventilated front/solid rear disc brakes. The vehicle’s handling is managed by an independent McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and predictable dynamics. Electric power steering enhances maneuverability, with a minimum turning circle of 35.93 feet. Standard 205/50 R17H tires on 17-inch wheel rims complete the athletic stance.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
| General Information | |
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Megane |
| Generation | Megane III CC |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 Energy TCe (132 Hp) Start&Stop |
| Production Start | 2013 year |
| Production End | 2014 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body Type | Coupe – Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Performance Specifications | |
| Fuel Consumption (Urban) | 7.8 l/100 km / 30.2 US mpg |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban) | 5.5 l/100 km / 42.8 US mpg |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 6.4 l/100 km / 36.8 US mpg |
| CO2 Emissions | 145 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum Speed | 190 km/h / 118.06 mph |
| Emission Standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp / 88 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm / 136.7 Nm/tonne |
| Engine Specifications | |
| Power | 132 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per liter | 110.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 2000 rpm / 151.2 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm |
| Engine Layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H4J |
| Engine Displacement | 1198 cm3 / 73.11 cu. in. |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 |
| Engine Configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.2 mm / 2.84 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 73.2 mm / 2.88 in. |
| Compression Ratio | 10:1 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel Injection System | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine Aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 4.5 l / 4.76 US qt |
| Coolant Capacity | 6.8 l / 7.19 US qt |
| Engine Systems | Start & Stop System |
| Space, Volume, and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 1500 kg / 3306.93 lbs. |
| Max. Weight | 1864 kg / 4109.42 lbs. |
| Max Load | 364 kg / 802.48 lbs. |
| Trunk Space (Min) | 211 l / 7.45 cu. ft. |
| Trunk Space (Max) | 417 l / 14.73 cu. ft. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 l / 15.85 US gal |
| Permitted Trailer Load (with brakes) | 750 kg / 1653.47 lbs. |
| Permitted Trailer Load (without brakes) | 750 kg / 1653.47 lbs. |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 4485 mm / 176.57 in. |
| Width | 1811 mm / 71.3 in. |
| Width (incl. mirrors) | 2072 mm / 81.57 in. |
| Height | 1434 mm / 56.46 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2609 mm / 102.72 in. |
| Front Track | 1546 mm / 60.87 in. |
| Rear Track | 1547 mm / 60.91 in. |
| Front Overhang | 862 mm / 33.94 in. |
| Rear Overhang | 1014 mm / 39.92 in. |
| Ride Height (Ground Clearance) | 120 mm / 4.72 in. |
| Minimum Turning Circle | 10.95 m / 35.93 ft. |
| Drivetrain, Brakes, and Suspension | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive Wheel | Front-wheel drive |
| Gearbox | 6 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 |
| Tire Size | 205/50 R17H |
| Wheel Rim Size | 17 inches |
The Renault Megane III CC, with its 1.4 Energy TCe (132 Hp) Start&Stop engine, carved out a niche for itself in the European compact car market. It competed with models like the Peugeot 308 CC, Volkswagen Eos, and Opel Astra TwinTop. Its distinctive styling, refined interior, and fuel-efficient powertrains helped Renault solidify its position as a producer of stylish and technologically advanced vehicles. While not sold in the US, it remains a notable example of European automotive engineering focused on balancing driving pleasure with environmental responsibility.
