THE Renault Megane has been competing against cars such as the Vauxhall Astra and other similar sized hatchbacks since 1995; writes Jonathan Crouch.

Now in its fourth generation, it faces stiff competition from hatchbacks and crossovers alike.

Every new version of the Renault Megane seems to change significantly from the last. The fourth generation is no different.

Much greater interior quality is promised along with technologies not seen before in this segment.

Is it enough to topple the Focus and Astra though? As with the vast majority of cars such as this, a big part of the driving experience will depend on the engine you’ve plumped for.

If you like petrol power, Renault offer three turbocharged ‘TCe’ options, with either 100PS, 130PS - or a 205PS unit that is available exclusively in GT trim.

If you go for the most potent performer, your only transmission choice is a seven speed automatic, which is also an option on the 130PS motor.

Also standard with that 205PS unit is ‘4Control’ four wheel steering that helps agility at low speed and stability as the pace increases.

There’s no doubt that the diesel options will make up the majority of sales.

With that in mind, it’s no surprise to find even more options here.

The ‘dCi’ choices are 90PS, 110PS (the most economical choice), 130PS and finally 165PS for GT trim.

If these power outputs seem familiar, the engines can be found in other models such as the Clio and Kadjar.

While GT models may benefit from Renaultsport input for additional smiles per mile, the normal models are likely to be more safe and secure than sporty and engaging. A grown up car needs grown up dynamics after all.

The fourth generation Megane is longer, lower and wider than its predecessor to give a more assured stance on the road. Helping give the impression of width are pronounced wheelarches similar to those on a Clio and striking light graphics front and rear. These scribe a ‘C’ shape up front, with the rear lights barely separated by the centrally mounted Renault badge.

This echoes the large diamond logo up front with a typically large grille surrounding it. GT models ramp up the aggression further with specific alloy wheels, a more aggressive front bumper and twin tailpipes out back. Step inside and you’ll find a step up in quality compared to the old car, with a distinctly Germanic feel to the ambiance.

Higher end versions get a smattering of chrome trim, along with Nappa leather trimmings to help lift things further. While a 7” touchscreen infotainment system in the traditional landscape format is fitted to most models, plusher trims receive something a little different.

Aping the Tesla Model S, Renault offer an 8.7” touchscreen in a portrait orientation.

Boot capacity is an impressive 434-litres, significantly more than the class average. To compete in the Focus family hatch segment, this Megane will need to be very well equipped - and is.

Higher specification models benefit from such niceties as full LED lights front and rear, TFT instrument display, a driver’s seat with massage function and a nine speaker BOSE stereo with an amp and subwoofer.

Safety is covered by a range of available technologies on top of the usual electronic aids. These include autonomous braking for emergency scenarios, adaptive cruise control that can increase and decrease the speed of the car in traffic plus warnings for speed limits, braking distances and lane departure. Those that struggle to park will appreciate the front, rear and side parking sensors and the hands-free parking ability of higher end models.

Renault is on pretty good form at the moment. The Captur has been a sales success, the Clio doesn’t do too badly while the Kadjar is a serious threat to its sister Crossover, the Qashqai. At last, Renault seems to be focusing on selling cars the UK really wants.

Will this MK4 Megane be one of them? Well, it’s certainly now a much more credible alternative to the usual Astra and Focus-class choices in the family hatchback segment.

The question is though, whether buyers in this segment who might have already dismissed this Megane out of hand will take another look at its much improved proposition. They’d do well to consider it.

This may not be the European market leader it was a decade or so ago but it remains roomy, quiet, safe and pleasantly plush, even in entrylevel form. In other words, a compact family five-door that ticks an awful lot of boxes.

And one an awful lot of people we think, would rather enjoy owning....

Facts at a Glance:

Renault Megane, price tbc

CO2 EMISSIONS: [110PS dCi] 86g/km (manufacturer’s claim)

FUEL CONSUMPTION: [110PS dCi] 85.2mpg

STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Airbags, ABS, traction control, stability control

WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height 4359/1591/1447mm

WHO TO SEE: renault.co.uk