2016 Renault Megane revealed

The first pictures have been released of the all-new Renault Megane, ahead of its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Going head-to-head with the Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra and Volkswagen Golf, the Megane will be the most important new model in Renault’s range.

With a reputation for being curvaceous, the fourth Megane is noticeably sharper and more aggressively styled, although it still has shapelier rear haunches than most rival family hatchbacks. The biggest changes are at either end, with a far greater emphasis placed on its lights. 

The Megane’s nose is adorned with intricate headlights and daytime-running lights, with a distinctive C-shaped design continuing into the front bumper. The grille-mounted Renault diamond is also much larger, and bolder, than before. At the rear, LED taillights stretch across the boot, almost meeting the central diamond badge. 

It has different proportions too, being 25mm lower, 47mm wider at the front wheels and 39mm wider at the rear tyres, giving the all-new Megane a sportier stance. Exterior designer Frank Le Gall said: “The precise, taut lines, which draw the whole design towards the front, are part of the side surfaces. In combination with the sculpted shoulders, these lines give the New Megane dynamism and character.”

A GT version of the Megane will also be available from launch, with a wider front air intake and grille with a honeycomb design. The rear bumper is inspired by motorsport, with chrome tailpipes surrounding a rear diffuser and ‘Renaultsport’ badging. The GT model will be available with ‘Iron Blue’ paintwork and ‘Dark Metal’ exterior trim, including the door mirrors, along with 18-inch alloy wheels developed by Renaultsport.

The interior is expected to be the most upmarket ever offered in a Megane, with the option of a large portrait touch-screen mounted in the centre console. Materials are also expected to look and feel more expensive.

Full details will be released at the Frankfurt Motor Show, so check back next week for more info. The Megane is expected to go on sale in early 2016.

Can't wait until next year? Here's our video review of the current Renault Megane: