5th Gear reviews one of Europe’s hottest hatches at the moment, the RenaultSport Megane 265 Trophy. The car currently holds the record for the fastest lap around the Nürburgring by any front-wheel drive car. 

The new range of Renault Sandero’s are now available and come with a number of improvements on the previous range. As always though Renault cars South Africa focuses on affordability, value and spaciousness, with particular emphasis on spaciousness, something that is not always present in other hatchbacks in the segment. The new Sandero has the best-in-class interior accommodation and luggage space, a factor that should set it apart in its class.

The engine options available for the 2011 Sandero include:

The 1.4 Ambiance, which is the only car in its category to be fitted with ABS brakes, with electronic brake force distribution as well as driver and front passenger airbags. The 1.4 litre 4 cylinder engine produces 55kW at 5 500 r/min allowing it to complete 0-100km/h in 13 seconds and maxing out at 161km/h. The average fuel consumption comes in at 7 litres/100km and its CO2 emissions run at 164 g/km.

For some extra oomph, the 1.6 Dynamique is also available. It is the only car in its category to come with 15 inch alloy wheels as standard and has the largest dimensions in its class. It is powered by a 1 598cc 8-valve multi-point fuel injected engine that produces 64 kW at 5 500 r/min, this results in a 0-100km/h time of just 11.5 seconds and a top speed of 175km/h. The average fuel consumption is only slightly higher than the 1.4, clocking in at 7.2 litres/100km.

Topping off the range is the more stylish 1.6 Stepway. Compared to the Dynamique; the Stepway’s ride height is increased by 20mm, the wheels are 16 inch alloy, front fog lights have been included along with black/satin chrome roof bars. Additional satin chrome finishes round off the door mirrors, door handles, front and back skid plates and exhaust outlet.

These 3 models are available with the following prices

1.4 Amiance R104 900
1.6 Dynamique R124 900
1.6 Stepway R149 900

Source: Renault

Renault showcased their new Wind earlier this year and now have a full release. Renault are marketing the Wind as a fun, funky, compact run-around 2 seater coupe-roadster. Which is quite a combination but Renault feel like the Wind should fit in perfectly in their list of models between the Clio and the Twingo.

Obviously the Wind’s biggest drawing point is the electric powered roof system which can open in just 12 seconds. A lot of effort has been made to keep the car small, light and yet still obviously good looking with some pace on the side. The Wind comes in 2 engine types; the TCe 100 and a 1.6 16V 133hp. Renault note that the Wind has the best weight to body rigidity ratio in a coupe roadster, which provides a smooth ride, low CO2 emissions and increased fuel economy.

Another motivation for Renault when making the Wind, was they felt that “wind in the hair” driving should just be reserved for the luxury segment and sports cars. The Wind is however still made with function in mind, including the boot space which is equal in size to the Renault Clio. Renault have said that part of the lure of the Wind as a compact coupe-roadster was it’s price and keeping it affordable, else it would have lost it’s competitive edge. Renault haven’t announced it’s expected price yet or if it will be released in South Africa but we wait and see.

The Renault Wind will go on sale in the United Kingdom in July this year and later the rest of Europe.

Source: Renault

The ever-popular Renault Megane is back but this time in a Coupe’ Cabriolet 2010 version that is bound to be a hit with anyone looking for a styling ride with the top down. With over 170 000 units sold of the previous Renault Megane Coupe Cabriolet it’s already a very popular car, and the 2010 model is sure to pick up where the previous model left off.

There have obviously been styling changes with the 2010 model, for starters it is 13cm longer than it’s predecessor as well as having a longer wheel-base. There are some subtle changes to the headlights, rear and front but they are nothing to write home about. Regarding the drop-down roof, one of the praises for the previous model was the amount of light that was let in, this remains the same and has now become the segments largest folding glass roof.

Unlike some cabriolet car, the Megane is actually designed to carry 4 passengers as well as their luggage. As to just how comfortable they will be, space wise and just how much luggage they can bring with them is another story. With the roof down, the boot can carry 3 luggage cases, which is probably fair enough.

As with most new cars, the Megane is available in a range of petrol and diesel engines as well some sport versions. The 2 sport versions available are the GT Line and GT. These sport versions come with slightly different styling on the exterior as well as different sport tires and performance engines.

When it comes to the safety features, the Megane seems quite loaded, including: Seatbelt warning lights, tire pressure warning system, automatic headlight and wiper activation. The 2010 Renault Megane Coupe Cabriolet is said to go on sale in Europe in 2010.

Source: Renault

Fluence Z.E. Concept is a statement of Renault’s intention to produce a range of zero-emission vehicles that meet the needs of all types of customer. Fluence Z.E. Concept is a genuine family car which demonstrates that attractive styling, comfort and space can go hand in hand with respect for the environment.

Electric mobility with a passion

Luxury, harmony and… energy efficiency

Fluence Z.E. Concept’s warmly welcoming and refined interior is based on a combination of flowing forms, the use of soft, supple materials and a mottled ambience. Passengers are comfortably seated in four enveloping seats robed in light leather upholstery. The feet rest on a light blue translucent gel mat, while the brake and accelerator pedals, too, are covered in gel for a greater sense of comfort. When the doors open, the courtesy lighting recalls the luminous blue signature of Renault’s electric vehicle range.

Technology dedicated to environment

Fluence Z.E. Concept is not respectful of the environment simply because it runs on electricity. Indeed, the entire car has been thought through to optimize energy use: