Renault Megane Coupe Cabriolet review

The new Renault Megane Coupe Cabriolet is the final model in the range to receive the pinched, smoothed and Botox-like updated front end. To the pleasure of the fake-tan brigade, it also features a folding glass roof.

Its bug-eyed face and generously proportioned rear are more attractive than those of the rather frumpy predecessor. It also looks better than competitors such as the Focus CC and 308 CC, both of which appear like trolls lurking beneath a hard-top bridge.

Renault Megane CC styling and chassis

That matters greatly because the Megane CC is not especially entertaining to drive. To compensate for the roof removal and the extra 160 kg it brings, Renault has added considerable structural reinforcement to the hatchback. Front springs are 13 per cent firmer and rear springs 17 per cent firmer, while the dampers, anti-roll bar and rear axle beam have also been stiffened. Even so, its body control remains rather floaty.

With the roof folded away, taking the CC along narrow country roads predictably exposes scuttle shake and a substantial dose of understeer. On turn-in, the front tyres gain purchase gradually and slowly, but ask too much of them and the car runs wide. It never becomes seriously wayward, although it is short on delicacy.

Roof in place, the Megane CC delivers respectable grip and feels solid, hushed and stable, yet it still lacks accuracy. Once more, understeer and a modest amount of body roll signal that you are nearing its limits.

Ride comfort and engine choices

Keep engine speeds low and it becomes an agreeable cruiser with a comfortable ride. However, the steering feels indistinct around the straight-ahead position, while its response through corners lacks both smoothness and progression. Alongside the ride, this can make the experience feel detached.

The engine range includes a 130bhp 1.4-litre petrol, 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre diesels, and-best of the selection-a 2.0-litre diesel producing 160bhp. The latter has sufficient torque to potter about in a single gear for much of the day.

Choose the 2.0-litre 140bhp petrol and Renault's new EDC automatic is fitted as standard. It is a dual-clutch transmission, similar in principle to Volkswagen's DSG, designed for rapid shifts. Yet it is nowhere near as impressive as the DSG. Changes are made with the gear lever, as there are no steering-wheel paddles, and it pauses to consider matters before selecting the next ratio. That is frustrating when driving briskly, but unlikely to trouble its intended buyers, who are more inclined towards unhurried cruising.

Renault Megane Coupe Cabriolet cabin

That relaxed frame of mind is the right way to enjoy the Megane CC. The cabin offers plenty of room, its seats are supportive, and there is a small amount of space in the rear for children. An integrated TomTom system is standard, while wind buffeting remains minimal with the roof down at speeds of up to 97 km/h, leaving the cabin pleasantly calm.

Therefore, despite Renault's claims of firmer springs and precise handling, the result is a reassuringly soft and, most importantly, very handsome convertible.