1998 Renault Megane RT 1.4 e
Summary:
Good car, with a couple of faults
Faults:
Rattles from both front drivers and passengers doors, due to the wiring loom inside the doors coming loose. Was fixed within 1 hour of reporting fault.
Loose exterior trim on the hatch of the boot round the number plate which sometimes vibrates and rattles at low speed.
Premature rusting of the rear wheel arches. First signs of rust at only 56.000 miles.
Creaking drivers chair, the plastic on the seat base creaks and squeaks, the padding on the chair is also now very flat and provides poor comfort and support.
General Comments:
This has been a reliable car which is only brought down by some poor quality fit and finish in some areas.
The engine is reliable and eager, but is easily strained.
Gear box is not to everyones tastes and low down gear changes that need to be made quickly in the city traffic are not always easy or fun. Further up the gear range the change becomes slick and a pleasure to use.
Steering wheel is set too low, even when adjusted to maximum height still rubs off legs.
Interior trim can rattle and vibrate.
This is a very good car, sadly let down by Renault wanting to cut costs and cut corners.
For a 1.4 12 valve car it has surprising urge. It has good grip to the front wheels, although ride can be firm and let too many surface imperfections filter through.
I cannot help, but feel if they had spent just a bit more time planning this car it would have pleased a lot more customers.
The things that drew me to this car are the things that makes me love it the most, style, value for money and equipment. How many cars in this sector come with audio controls on the steering wheel, electric mirrors, electric windows and sunroof on a Mid specification car as my RT is?
I would recommend this car to anyone as a second hand car because it is good value for money.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 24th September, 2003
23rd Nov 2003, 10:13
I have a Renault megane RN of the same year and as yet haven't had any problems it corners well and starts first time in all weather conditions, its very comfortable and nice to drive. I will agree however that it can be quite sluggish, but after you have been driving a tank for a few years it's a not a high priority plus you save money using less petrol anyway.