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Hatchbacks, SUVs, hybrids, electric cars: Renault makes them all, in a variety of shapes and sizes, meaning&nbsp;it has a line-up designed to tempt pretty much everyone.

From the roadside, the standout feature of all its cars is design, with them instantly recognisable as members of the Renault family, without being so similar that they fall&nbsp;into the Russian doll trap. However, in terms of ability they're a mixed bag,&nbsp;ranging&nbsp;from very good to no better than average.

Models that fall into the former camp include the Clio small hatchback and Megane E-Tech electric car, while the smaller Zoe electric car is also impressive in most respects; it's just a pity Renault omits key safety kit.

On the other hand, the Captur, Arkana and Austral SUVs are all outclassed by several rivals.

Renault has some exciting new models planned, including a new Scenic (this time it will be an electric SUV instead of a conventionally powered MPV) and two cars that reimagine classic Renaults: the 4 and 5.

RENAULT

MEGANE

The Renault Megane Estate is no beauty, but it will carry large loads

Used Renault Megane Sport Tourer 2002 - 2009

Servicing shouldn't be too much of a problem. The work is mostly straightforward and intervals are variable – on-board sensors decide when the oil needs changing and the brakes could use a look at - so you can help to keep your own costs down.

Likewise, you can avoid the steep main-dealer labour rates by using a good independent garage. However, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/renault">Renaults</a> aren't the most reliable of cars, so as yours gets older, it'll make sense to budget for surprise repairs.

Fuel economy is also strong, with the diesels averaging 60mpg and the 1.6 petrols 41mpg. The 1.4 is slightly thirstier overall than the 1.6.

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The Renault Megane Estate is no beauty, but it will carry large loads

Compared with the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/megane-e-tech/hatchback/review/n24175">Renault Megane</a> hatchback and the Renault Scenic, this isn't a big seller. So you'll need to stay flexible over which used model you buy - or wait an age before you find the right one. Most buyers go for the 1.6 petrol or 1.5 diesel engines and pick Expression trim, which is the cheapest option.

The diesels pull hardest from low revs, which is something you'll appreciate when driving with a load aboard. However, these models are dearer to buy second-hand, so you'll only make a saving overall if you cover plenty of miles. Do the sums and then decide.

There's also a 1.4 petrol, which struggles in such a big car, a punchy 2.0 and a 1.9 130bhp diesel. You can also go for sporty Dynamique trim or plush Privilege.

Out of that lot, we'd stick with Expression trim and either the 1.6 petrol or 1.5 106bhp diesel.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter <a href="https://pages.haymarket.com/whatcar/wcar-form.html">here</a>

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<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Huge boot and excellent practicality</li> <li>Plenty of interior space so you can carry passengers as well as luggage </li> <li>Strong engines to pull a heavily laden car</li> <li>Comfortable ride, especially on the motorway</li> <li>Low running costs for company car drivers</li></ul>

If you’re after bags of space but you don’t want to commit to the van-like dimensions and styling of an MPV, there are some great estate cars on offer that should do the job.

Tricks to look out for include an electric tailgate&nbsp;that opens automatically when you wave your foot under the rear bumper; this is&nbsp;particularly handy if you’re trying to load in a heavy or&nbsp;bulky item. You should also look for handles in the side of the boot itself that can drop down the rear seats; these are much more convenient than having to walk around the side of the car to do it.

Renault has had a regular spot among the bottom 10 makes in the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/news/2021-what-car-reliability-survey/n23397">What Car? Reliability Survey</a>. That said, Meganes are by no means the worst offenders in Renault's line-up, and repair costs are cheap.

Electrical faults are the car's main weak spot, particularly if damp enters the fuse box - check all the gadgets work and that every instrument and warning light responds correctly. There are also isolated reports of problems with the handbrake not releasing properly.

Diesels can suffer turbo failure - an expensive job if the warranty has expired and you're paying the bill.

There have only been a few recalls to correct safely-related faults, but 2004-registered Meganes may have needed work to re-route front brake hoses - check if yours has had this done.

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You've considered buying a Scenic, but its high-up driver's seat doesn't feel right. So, the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/megane-e-tech/hatchback/review/n24175">Renault Megane</a> Sport Tourer is better: it will carry as much, but it doesn't drive like an MPV.

The Sport Tourer name suggests it's more about style than substance, but that's not the case. In fact, this is a conventional estate. True, it's no beauty, but it does have one of the biggest load areas in the class.

If you've stepped from a <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/focus/hatchback/review/n37">Ford Focus</a>, the Megane feels limp to drive. It rides softly and handles competently but the steering gives little feedback.

However, the cabin provides good space and keeps out most road noise, while the stylish dash is easy to use - although the U-shaped handbrake and credit-card ignition key are gimmicky.

Even the cheap models are loaded with standard equipment, including six airbags, air-con and a CD player. Only the top-end models have alloy wheels as standard, though.

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Used Renault Megane Sport Tourer 2002 - 2009 reliability

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Used Renault Megane Sport Tourer 2002 - 2009 review

Renault has had a regular spot among the bottom 10 makes in the What Car? Reliability Survey. That said, Meganes are by no means the worst offenders in Renault's line-up, and repair costs are cheap.,Electrical faults are the car's main weak spot, particularly if damp enters the fuse box - check all the gadgets work and that every instrument and warning light responds correctly. There are also isolated reports of problems with the handbrake not releasing properly.,Diesels can suffer turbo failure - an expensive job if the warranty has expired and you're paying the bill.There have only been a few recalls to correct safely-related faults, but 2004-registered Meganes may have needed work to re-route front brake hoses - check if yours has had this done. 

What to look for when buying a Renault Megane 2002 - 2009, covering common problems to check for and overall vehicle reliability.

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