Refreshed Renault Megane Arrives with More Tech and More Range

The Renault Megane E-Tech was introduced in 2022 and instantly attracted headlines for its all-electric powertrain and sharp styling. It even attracted a respectable fan base, but now – after four years - it has been refreshed and is even better.

The new Megane E-Tech arrives with a new battery pack, faster charging and a more powerful motor. It’s also introduced a raft of new technologies ensuring that it keeps up with the current flock of EVs, and it’s had a little facelift, too.

Battery, Charging and Range

The most noticeable upgrade for customers will be the battery pack, because not only does it provide more range – now up to 310 miles on the combined WLTP test cycle - but that battery is LFP, or Lithium Iron Phosphate, which means it prefers a 100% charge if used regularly. And that’s a good move, because not only are LFP batteries much more robust, but customers will benefit from the cars full range from each AC charge.

Charging times have been reduced, too, with a 15% to 80% charge taking 24 minutes thanks to the upgraded onboard DC charger, now rated at 165 kW.

There’s also an 11 kW onboard AC charger, too, but that introduces vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities, and also vehicle-to-grid functionality (not permitted in the U.K. yet).
However, the V2L is rated at 3.7 kW meaning that it can run some very usable devices, such as coffee machines, electric BBQ’s, charge other batteries (for e-bikes for example) and more.

One pedal driving is available to maximise efficiency, along with four adjustable levels of regenerative braking for personal preferences, accessed by the flappy paddles behind the steering wheel.

Technology

The inverted L-shaped “openR link” screen remains, combining a 12.3 inch digital drivers display and a 12 inch multi-media display that’s conveniently positioned for the driver, keeping as much information in the eyeline as possible.

The user interface is now run by native Google software, providing the very best navigation system. The Megane will plan routes via chargers if needed using built-in Google maps, so no need to screen mirror for Google maps.
But, the Google system also brings with it the Gemini Google AI Assistant for natural language commands or conversational qualities, allowing drivers to interact with the car in real time.

There’s also a catalogue of over 100 apps to download adding more personalised functions to the car, available via the onboard Google Play Store.

A new driver recognition camera positioned in the A pillar can scan the drivers face and automatically adjust the driver’s personal settings, including the driving position and favourite media settings.
Plus, Smart Mode adds to that personalisation, and now replaces MySense. It can automatically switch between driving modes according to the driver’s behaviour.

Safety is a priority for Renault and it has added more than 30 safety and driver assistance systems, including intelligent adaptive cruise control, improved realistic in-dash view, emergency stop assist, predictive eco driving advice and Safety Score, Safety Coach and Safety Monitor functions.

Features & Trims

An all-new “my rnlt” mobile app allows drivers to plan EV routes and send them directly to the vehicle via Google Maps, plus customers can monitor the charge status and range, control the charging remotely, pre-condition the cabin, and access key vehicle information as well as identifying nearby charging points.

Note: Good news for Renault customers as the new app will be rolled out gradually across Europe and later made available for all Renault vehicles.

The revised Megane E-Tech electric range has been simplified, but it has increased standard equipment:

Techno
Includes the 12-inch openR link twin-screen display with Google built-in, EV route planning, heat pump, battery pre-conditioning, 220hp motor and new 19-inch alloy wheels.

Esprit Alpine
Adds more distinctive exterior styling, 20-inch alloy wheels, power massage seats, a Harman Kardon premium audio system and an extended range of driver assistance systems.

Specs

At exactly 4.2 meters in length, it’s approximately the same size as a Volkswagen Golf, albeit with a much larger boot at 440 litres. And with the rear seats folded, that extends to 1,332 litres – not bad for a relatively small footprint.

With 220 HP the new Megane will hit 60 mph from a standstill in a very respectable 7.6 seconds, whilst making for easy overtaking, thanks to 300 Nm of torque available.

U.K. process and exact trims and specifications are yet to be confirmed.

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About the Author

Graeme Cobb is a lifelong car enthusiast with a passion for writing about cars, EVs, industry updates and more.

You can find Graeme on 𝕏 at @graeme_cobb