A fine buy with a huge choice of models, specifications and prices.

The Megane has been a major success story for Renault. Keen pricing, good levels of standard equipment, roominess and strong build quality have all helped, as have clever and constant TV advertising. The range of models on offer has also played a large part in the success with the closely related Scenic (now a separate range in its own right) in particular opening up a whole new market sector, that of the compact and affordable people carrier. For the used buyer, there's never been a better time to pick up a well-priced Megane, with all models on the market in substantial numbers. As a family car, the five-door hatchback and saloon offer a lot for the money, while the less common coupe and convertible offer distinctive looks for those who want sporty cars at a value price.

RENAULT MEGANE HISTORY

The Renault Megane was launched in April 1996 as a five-door hatchback with a choice of 1.4, 1.6 and 2.0-litre eight-valve petrol engines, plus normally aspirated and turbocharged 1.9-litre diesels. The Coupe version was also launched at the same time, with a choice of 1.6, 2.0 or 2.0 16v engines. In December 1996, a four-door version dubbed 'Classic' was introduced, based around the 1.6-litre petrol engine. In May 1997, the groundbreaking mini-MPV Scenic version was launched, with a choice of 1.6 or 2.0-litre petrol power or the 1.9-litre turbo diesel. A month later saw the introduction of yet another Megane derivative, the Convertible, available with the same engines as the Coupe. In February 1998, the turbo diesel engine was replaced by a more advanced 1.9-litre direct injection unit in both the five-door and the Scenic models. 'Easy' versions of the saloon, five-door and Scenic were also introduced with clever clutchless gearboxes but these were not popular and the option was soon dropped. A top-spec Monaco version of the Scenic was also made available. The Second Generation Megane arrived in April 1999 with a rather dubious restyled nose and revised tail light treatment, plus a restyled interior with extra equipment and twin front and side airbags on all models. Though the base diesel and 1.4-litre engines remained, the bulk of the range was now made up with more advanced units: a 95bhp 1.4-litre 16v and the 110bhp 1.6-litre 16v engine borrowed from the Laguna. This restyle affected only the five-door, Classic, Coupe and Convertible models: the Scenic was re-launched as a model in its own right in the Autumn.

WHAT DO I GET FOR MY MONEY?

A value-for-money compact family-sized car that's the safest thing in its sector. It doesn't feel as classy as some of the alternatives you'll find from, say, VW or Rover, but it's better equipped.

WHAT PRICE AM I LOOKING AT?

If you're looking for a bargain Megane, the 1.4-litre five-door is your car. Early RN N-platers start from about £1,600, with the better-specified RT about another £150. Second generation cars with the 16-valve engine and RT trim start on 99T plates at about £2,825. The cheapest 1.6-litre five-doors will date from 1996. For these N-platers, expect to pay from around £2,100 for an RT or about £2,400 for a plusher RXE. Second generation prices start around the £3,500 mark for the new 16-valve engine and RT trim. As for 2.0-litre and diesel five-doors, budget for a minimum of £1,700 for the cheapest N-plate 2.0 RXE, while you'll be looking at about £1,800 for an RN D or roughly £1,900 for the turbo-engined RT TD. Second generation diesels start at about £3,100.

WHAT SHOULD I LOOK OUT FOR?

Very little goes wrong though automatic transmission problems have been known so make sure the 'box changes up and down properly on your test drive. Watch for thrashed 16 valve Coupe or convertible models and for the usual family interior damage on Scenics.

HOW DOES IT DRIVE?

On the road, the emphasis once more has been placed upon practical user benefits - refinement and ride quality to be specific, both of which set class standards. If you want ultimate handling and performance, you need to try one of the affordably priced Coupe models.

BY JONATHAN CROUCH

PARTS INFORMATION

(Based on a 1996 Megane 2.0 RXE) A new clutch will be about £140 and a full exhaust system, excluding the catalyst, should be around £250. Brake pads are about £40 a set, an alternator is close to £135, a starter motor should be just under £125 and a headlight is about £65. A replacement radiator (with aircon) is about £150.