The Renault Megane III (Phase III), produced from 2014 to 2015, represents a significant refresh of the third-generation Megane compact hatchback. While the Megane isn’t a model traditionally sold in the United States, it’s a hugely popular vehicle in Europe, competing with models like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. The Phase III update brought styling revisions, enhanced interior quality, and updated technology, including a focus on fuel efficiency and driving dynamics. The GT 2.0 dCi (165 Hp) variant, detailed here, was positioned as a sporty, diesel-powered option within the Megane range, offering a balance of performance and economy.
Renault Megane III GT 2.0 dCi: An Overview
The Megane III Phase III aimed to address criticisms leveled at earlier versions of the model, particularly regarding interior materials and perceived build quality. The 2.0 dCi GT trim level specifically targeted drivers seeking a more engaging driving experience without sacrificing the practicality of a five-door hatchback. This model was primarily sold in European markets, where diesel engines hold a substantial market share due to their fuel efficiency and torque characteristics. The “GT” designation signified a sportier aesthetic and suspension tuning compared to standard Megane models.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Megane GT 2.0 dCi is a 1995 cc inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the M9R. This engine produces 165 horsepower at 3750 rpm and a substantial 380 Nm (280.27 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. This torque output provides strong acceleration and effortless cruising, particularly beneficial for highway driving. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, enhancing power delivery and efficiency. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 8.5 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in a calculated 8.1 seconds. The Megane GT 2.0 dCi boasts a top speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle figures of 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 145 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and a compression ratio of 15.1:1.
Design & Features
The Renault Megane III Phase III GT 2.0 dCi is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. The Phase III refresh included revised front and rear styling, with a more prominent Renault badge and updated headlight and taillight designs. The GT trim level adds specific styling cues, such as unique alloy wheels (18-inch in this case), a more aggressive front bumper, and subtle rear spoilers. Inside, the GT model features sport seats, aluminum pedal caps, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Practicality is well-addressed 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. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis design. The car’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. The vehicle’s kerb weight is 1389 kg (3062.22 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1918 kg (4228.47 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Megane |
| Generation | Megane III (Phase III, 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | GT 2.0 dCi (165 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 145 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 118.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 273.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 165 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 2000 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M9R |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1389 kg (3062.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1918 kg (4228.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 529 kg (1166.25 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) |
| Length | 4295 mm (169.09 in.) |
| Width | 1808 mm (71.18 in.) |
| Height | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2641 mm (103.98 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 225/40 R18 |
The Renault Megane III Phase III GT 2.0 dCi offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, efficient, and reasonably sporty hatchback. Its combination of a torquey diesel engine, refined styling, and well-equipped interior made it a popular choice in a competitive segment.
