Used Renault Megane vs Seat Leon vs Vauxhall Astra
Renault's striking new Megane is designed to steal company car sales from the Seat Leon and Vauxhall Astra. We find out which is best...
Our Verdict
If you’re a company car driver looking for an affordable diesel hatchback, our advice is to buy the Vauxhall Astra. It might not be the best car in every respect, but it’s an impressive all-rounder and, crucially, doesn’t let itself down in any particular area.
Where it really counts, in the affordability battle, it really stands out. Its low CO2 emissions and cheap list price push down company car tax, and the attractive leasing costs are where the Astra hits home. That it’s relaxing and responsive to drive, and has the most practical interior are welcome assets, too – we just wish it had better steering.
The Seat Leon is a likeable and recommendable alternative. It will please keen drivers the most. That it has space for four adults and is in the ballpark for affordability are also pluses. Its shortage of modern safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, let it down, though, as does the relatively basic infotainment system.
That leaves the 2016-2022 Renault Megane. Where the Astra is solidly good, the Mégane is consistently average, particularly in the way it drives. Couple that to poor rear-seat space and the highest running costs, and it has to come last. Yet there are positives. The interior is eye-catching with the standard digital instruments and the optional, but reasonably priced, larger infotainment screen, which can be configured to taste. The Mégane is also well equipped with plenty of luxury and safety kit, too, and automatic emergency braking is an affordable option; we’d absolutely recommend you add it.
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1st – Vauxhall Astra
For Low CO2 emissions; good to drive; decent performance; roomy interior front and back
Against Poor steering feel; no standard-fit alarm
Verdict A very solid performer, if not brilliant in any one area
Rated 4 out of 5
2nd – Seat Leon
For Sharp handling; performance; driving position
Against Poor safety and infotainment kit; road noise
Verdict Fun to drive, practical and fairly cheap to run
Rated 4 out of 5
3rd – Renault Mégane
For Well equipped; lots of safety kit; supple ride
Against So-so performance and interior; highest CO2
Verdict Costly to lease; cramped rear; so-so to drive
Rated 3 out of 5
2016-2022 Renault Mégane review
Specifications: Renault Mégane 1.5 dCi 110 Dynamique Nav
Engine size 1.5-litre diesel
List price £19,400
Target Price £17,463
Power 108bhp
Torque 192lb ft
0-62mph 11.0sec
Top speed 116mph
Fuel economy 47.2mpg (True MPG)
CO2 emissions 96g/km
Specifications: Seat Leon 1.6 TDI 110 Ecomotive SE 5dr
Engine size 1.6-litre diesel
List price £19,650
Target Price £16,758
Power 108bhp
Torque 184lb ft
0-62mph 10.3sec
Top speed 124mph
Fuel economy 56.0mpg (True MPG)
CO2 emissions 94g/km
Specifications: Vauxhall Astra 1.6 CDTi 110 Ecoflex Tech Line
Engine size 1.5-litre diesel
List price £18,345
Target Price £16,758
Power 108bhp
Torque 221lb ft
0-62mph 10.5sec
Top speed 121mph
Fuel economy 56.3mpg (True MPG)
CO2 emissions 88g/km
