Renault launches facelifted 2014 Megane range in Australia
Renault has introduced the updated 2014 Megane to Australian showrooms, with revised styling, new equipment and a starting price of $20,990 for the entry-level Authentique hatch.
Renault has brought its facelifted 2014 Megane range to Australia, with the first examples now available to order. The revised line-up spans from the entry-level Authentique hatch at $20,990 to the GT Line Premium diesel wagon at $35,490, offering buyers updated styling and new equipment across the range.
The 2014 Megane update, first unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, brings the Australian model in line with Renault’s global design direction. The most obvious change is the front-end styling, which now features a larger Renault diamond badge and revised headlights. The update also introduces new wheel designs and equipment tweaks throughout the range.
Equipment and pricing breakdown
The Megane Authentique hatchback forms the entry point at $20,990 with a manual petrol engine. Standard equipment includes Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, cruise control with speed limiter, a multi-function steering wheel, smart key card with push-button start, digital speedometer, cloth upholstery, USB input, air conditioning, daytime running lights, fog lights and 16-inch alloy wheels. Safety features include six airbags.
- Megane Authentique hatch (manual petrol): $20,990 AUD
- GT Line hatch (petrol automatic): $26,990 AUD
- GT Line Premium hatch (diesel automatic): $33,490 AUD
- GT Line Premium wagon (diesel automatic): $35,490 AUD
The GT Line sits above the Authentique, with the petrol automatic hatch priced at $26,990. The range-topping GT Line Premium adds further equipment, including Viso Lane Departure Warning, automatic high and low beam headlights, heated front seats, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, leather trim, carbon fibre-effect dash, electronic parking brake, satellite navigation, Renault’s R-Link infotainment system, 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights and wipers. The GT Line Premium hatch is $33,490, while the diesel automatic wagon tops the range at $35,490.
Position in the market
With the 2014 update, Renault aims to strengthen the Megane’s position in the competitive small car segment. The new pricing structure undercuts some European rivals and brings a higher level of standard equipment to the lower end of the range. The introduction of advanced safety and comfort features at the upper end is designed to attract buyers considering more premium offerings.
Renault’s updated Megane faces competition from other facelifted models entering the Australian market in 2014, such as the Volkswagen Scirocco R and the Hyundai Sonata. The Megane’s facelift and equipment upgrades follow the pattern seen across the segment, where manufacturers are adding technology and safety features to maintain relevance and value.
For more details on the Megane’s design changes at launch, see our coverage from the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show at Renault Megane Unveiled With New Look at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.