2018 Renault Megane Intens Sedan Review

This is our last look at a model from the impressive Renault Megane range, finishing the journey with the Intens sedan.

It is one of two variants in this body type, the Zen being the other, and unlike the Megane hatch and wagon, is most peculiarly constructed in Turkey.

The Megane sedan is priced from a sensible $28,490, the upper spec Intens is valued at $33,990.

External

All other specifications, inside and out, are the same as the wagon and hatch except of course for the tail end.

The boot in the sedan has adequate dimensions being deep but not so wide. Most bigger items would have to place inside lengthwise.

Internal

The dashboard is well presented and attractive, not being overly cluttered and practical but classy.

I was again happy to see the changing ambient lighting on the door panels, switching colour with the choice of drive mode. For natural light the standard sunroof overhead will do the job controlled by a dial instead of a switch.

Features

Renault’s R-Link interface is installed on the large 8.7” vertical aspect touchscreen, though as in all other variants, making quick air conditioning adjustments on screen can get irritating.

No electric seats can be found in the Megane line up however they are leather in the Intens grade.

Drive and Engine

Both the Intens and Zen come with the same 1.2 litre turbo petrol engine and seven-speed auto and dual clutch transmission.

That’s the same motor as the one found in the lower grades of the other Megane models producing 97kW of power and 205Nm of torque.

While this is no powerhouse, especially with <100kW of power, it does give the Megane adequate strength for quick acceleration and easy overtaking.

Once again, there are five drive modes to choose from, as well as other driver supports like auto start/stop, adaptive cruise control, speed limiter, and park assist.

It displays a great deal of enthusiasm, and obviously more punch in sports selection all achieved while the driver sit in a quiet cabin.

Handling is brilliant and like I said in my review of the Megane wagon, almost feels like steering the smaller hatchback.

It was definitely a pleasure to drive all week.

What got me head scratching was the high displayed fuel consumption of 11.3L/100km, considerably more than my drive the 1.6L Megane GT.

Safety

The Intens comes standard with front and rear parking sensors with rear view camera, AEB, lane departure, distance warning and blind spot monitoring.

However, the Megane sedan does not yet have an ANCAP safety rating.

In the rear seats ISOFIX ports are found, now a common inclusion in the majority of new cars.

What isn’t standard is their presentation, with many manufacturers opting for the easy option of shoving them between the seats forcing you to stick your hand in like searching for loose change down the back of the sofa.

Renault places their anchors in neat plastic housing with a flap making them not only easy to find but a child seat easy to install.

Good Bits

• Enthusiastic drive
• Good handling
• Large touchscreen with R-Link
• Ambient lighting
• Driver assist systems
• Easy access ISOFIX
• Great family car

Not So Good

• No powered seats
• Narrow boot

Facts and Figures: 2018 Renault Megane Intens Sedan

• Engine: 1.2L turbo petrol four-cylinder 97kW/205Nm
• Transmission: Seven-speed sports auto dual clutch
• Warranty: 5 Yrs
• Safety: Not yet tested
• Origin: Turkey
• Price: From $33,990