The Renault Megane III (Phase II), produced from 2012 to 2013, represents a significant refresh of the third-generation Megane, a compact hatchback designed for the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Megane series has been a popular choice in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. The Phase II update brought styling revisions, improved interior quality, and updated engine options, including the 2.0-liter 16V engine paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This configuration aimed to balance performance with fuel efficiency, catering to the demands of European drivers.
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, focused on refining the existing platform rather than a complete overhaul. Key changes included a redesigned front fascia, updated interior materials, and enhancements to the vehicle’s technology. The 2.0 16V CVT model offered a comfortable and practical option for buyers seeking a balance between performance and economy.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2012 Renault Megane III (Phase II) 2.0 16V CVT is a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the M4R 711. This engine produces 140 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 195 Nm (143.82 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3750 rpm. The power-to-liter ratio is a respectable 70.1 hp/l. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a compression ratio of 10.2:1. Paired with a CVT, the Megane achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.3 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 9.8 seconds. Its maximum speed is rated at 195 km/h (121.17 mph). The CVT transmission provides smooth, stepless gear changes, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright acceleration. The engine’s front, transverse layout is typical for front-wheel-drive vehicles in this class.
Design & Features
The Renault Megane III (Phase II) is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. Its design emphasizes a modern and dynamic aesthetic, with flowing lines and a sculpted profile. The Phase II update brought a more prominent Renault badge, revised headlights, and a redesigned bumper. Inside, the cabin features a functional layout with a focus on ergonomics. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features, crucial for modern vehicles, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and driver/passenger airbags. The hatchback body style provides a good balance between passenger space and cargo capacity. The trunk offers 405 liters (14.3 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1162 liters (41.04 cu. ft.) when the seats are folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4295 mm (169.09 in.) in length, 1808 mm (71.18 in.) in width, and 1471 mm (57.91 in.) in height.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Megane |
| Generation | Megane III (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 | Hatchback |
| 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 | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 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 | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1278 kg (2817.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1829 kg (4032.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 551 kg (1214.75 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 | 675 kg (1488.12 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 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 Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 91H |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
