Model tested: Renault Megane Coupe-Convertible 1.4 TCE 130 Dynamique TomTom
Price: £21,595
Date tested: May 2010
Road tester: Stuart Milne

The Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet marks the completion of a rejuvenation of the Megane range, with six models released in 18 months. And it's quite a finale, with Renault releasing a car that looks as good with the roof up, as it does down.

Most hatchback-based coupe-convertibles are bought on looks, which is good news for Renault as the Megane CC is the most attractive model in its class. The standard curved glass roof gives a genuine coupe silhouette when in place, and with it folded its neat swage lines help to disguise the extra bulk at the back.

The largest folding glass roof in the segment, it can retract in just 21 seconds. A small wind deflector reduces turbulence but the £150 optional deflector which stretches across the rear seats improves this immeasurably. The result is a quiet and serene place to be at sub-motorway speeds.

Six engines are available, with petrol options comprising of a 130bhp 1.4 and a pair of 2-litres producing 160 or 180bhp. Diesel choices include a 110bhp 1.5, a 130bhp 1.9 and a 180bhp 2-litre.

We tested the 130bhp 1.4 "TCE 130" petrol engine; a powerplant that despite its size produces the power of a 1.8-litre engine thanks to clever turbocharging. Around town, the engine is quiet and flexible but achieving its 10.7 second 0-62mph time makes things noisier.

A peaky power delivery means it's important to be in the right gear at the right time, because 140lb/ft of pulling power isn't always enough to get you out of trouble. It's the greenest of the petrol engines though, emitting 169g/km of CO2 and returning an average of 39mpg.

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The 160bhp 2-litre diesel offers far better performance and is quiet and smooth. It cuts the 0-62mph time to 9.7 seconds while the top speed is 134mph. Economy is boosted to 42.1mpg, but emissions are slightly increased to 174g/km.

The manual gearboxes are all six-speeders, while a CVT automatic is offered in the 2-litre 140bhp petrol model and Renault's new EDC dual-clutch auto makes its debut with the 110bhp diesel. It's a well engineered 'box, offering well-timed gearshifts that are relaxed and suit the laid-back nature of the engine.

The cabin is the widest in its class, and space in the rear - although limited - is an improvement on the old model. Boot space is good too; with the roof up it measures 417 litres, reduced to 211 litres with the roof folded.

A good level of safety kit is offered, including ABS and stability control. General equipment levels are good too, with keyless entry, Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, automatic lights and wipers, cruise control and sat-nav standard on all cars.

Renault's £21,000 starting price puts the CC in competition with some real heavyweights, but the price is justified in the car's ability and quality. It's very good, and crucially, a very cool looking car.