Driving Renault’s Megane E-Tech SUV – a small French SUV with a difference, setting it apart from the look alike new breed of Chinese electric cars. At $54,990 plus on-road costs more than competitive, cheaper than Volvo’s EX30 and in a way more charming. The styling impressive, hatch like with large 20-inch wheels tucked into the corners. Step inside and it breathes clever design, quality materials and individuality. With a lightweight 60kWh battery feeding a single electric motor driving the front wheels it offers a driving range of 454Km which I found accurate. Relatively light for an electric car with a slim lightweight battery under the floor I found the energy consumption excellent at 14.1 kWh/100km. Electric cars tend to ride harder` due to battery weight – not so for the Megane E-Tech, extremely comfortable helped by great seats although disappointing only with manual adjustment. Welcome five-star safety plus four available drive modes that noticeably change the complexion of the drive, while steering feel is a high point. As I said earlier, it feels more premium in all it does apart from some tyre roar on courser road surfaces. I came away very impressed with this electric Renault Megane – appealingly different and a classy small French SUV. I’m David Berthon

IMAGE CREDIT / Renault Australia

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