Renault will launch the Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet in July, just in time for summer. We were expecting to have driven the car by now, but the blasted volcanic ash scuppered the launch, so we'll have to wait a few weeks.
In lieu of offering a dynamic appraisal, Renault has unveiled a startling amount of detail about the newcomer - but not the final pricing or specification.
The latest CC is bigger than the
outgoing car and features a glass roof. Renault claims that this makes the cabin feel more spacious, improves visibility and: 'Acts as a symbolic link between the coupé and cabriolet versions.' It folds down in only 21 seconds, too.
A glass roof isn't light though, and the CC is 160kg porkier than the Mégane hatchback. To cope with the extra weight, the French firm has stiffened the springs, dampers, anti-roll bar and rear beam by varying degrees.
Six engines will be available, split evenly between petrol and diesel power. The diesels have 108-, 128- and 158bhp, and the most frugal of the three produces 130g/km of CO
2 and averages 56.5mpg. It will thus be labelled the eco2 version.
Petrol power comes from a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated unit with 140bhp, or two turbocharged options with 1.4- and 2.0-litre capacities. The smaller engine generates 128bhp and the larger is the range flagship with 168bhp.
A dual-clutch, six-speed automatic will be available, which shifts cogs in less than a third of a second - as will a CVT auto. There's also a conventional six-speed manual.
Standard specification isn't clear yet, but equipment includes hands-free engine start and locking, dual-zone climate control, directional bi-xenon headlamps, TomTom satellite navigation, daytime running lights and parking sensors.
Prices for the Mégane CC are expected to start at around £20,000.
Mark Nichol - 12 May 2010
