Review
Fleets are expected to account for two-thirds of Renault Megane Sports Tourer sales, so it is vital that the car boasts certain attributes that aim to make fleet drivers' long hours on the road as effortless as possible.
Like any fleet workhorse, load ability is important, as is comfort and ease of use. And after a few weeks behind the wheel of a Megane Sport Tourer, I found it behaved so well that it overcame my irritation when it got too clever for its own good.
I'm not particularly a big fan of the workhorse appearance of many estate cars, but the Sport Tourer is a good-looking vehicle that has quite a presence on the road. I like the look of the funky Megane hatchback but this is more sensible in appearance.
So, while not being particularly flash, it gives the impression that you still care about your appearance.
The 2.0-litre petrol engine was certainly more than adequate, even if its mid-range response fell a little short when compared with the torquey 1.9 dCi unit.
The interior is impressive too. The seats are comfortable and the cabin roomy, with a nice, clean instrument layout and uncluttered centre console.
Rear seat passengers in particular were amazed by the amount of legroom and were delighted with the overall comfort of the car.
Now to one of its shortfalls. I found the steering too light. Although it makes parking manoeuvres a breeze, I prefer a weightier feel at speed on the road. Our car also had a very light interior which didn't take too well to dirty shoes.
Neither did I get on so well with the key card. On more than one occasion I exited the car only to find I'd left the engine running.
I found out when it wouldn't lock using the door handle button, which works in conjunction with the key card.
Maybe it's me being inept and I admit I got used to it the longer I spent with the car but I never really got on with this.
Although the standard audio system was good, the on/off button was quite annoying as it was small and my finger was constantly drawn to the volume button instead.
My overall impression of the car was that it is well-equipped, distinctive and offers good value for money. And it's safe too, with a five-star Euro NCAP rating – giving company drivers peace of mind when using it for work or to transport the family.
It's just a bit too clever for a workhorse though.
Make: Renault
Model: Megane Sport Tourer Privilege
Engine (cc): 1,998
Power (bhp/rpm): 134/5,500
Torque (lb-ft/rpm): 141/3,750
Max speed: 123
0-62mph: 9.7
Fuel consumption (mpg): 35.3
CO2 emissions (g/km): 191
Fuel tank capacity(l/gal): 60/13.2
Transmission: 6-sp man
Price (OTR): £15,813
