1997 RENAULT Megane Cabrio 2.0i 4AT FWD (109 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Renault introduced the first Megane lineup in 1995 but waited for another two years before unveiling the Cabriolet version.

When Ford introduced the first open-top version for the Escort, it became an unexpected fashion item. Renault tried the same with a rag-top model 19, but it didn’t reach that status. After a few years, when the Megane was already a real success, the French carmaker tried again. It took the little Megane Coupe, reinforced its structure, and cut its roof resulting in the Megane Cabriolet.

With its already known front fascia that sported the bird-beak design with an arched, vertical slat on the grille, the Megane screamed for attention. However, its short hood and very raked windshield were adequate for an open-top version. Moreover, the short cabin meant that, apart from the windscreen, the car didn’t need any other roll-cage to protect its occupants. Renault worked hard to make room for the canvas roof behind the rear seats. After the passenger area, the car featured a short, double-bubble deck and the trunk lid.

Concealing the rag top might be a good idea for a longer car, but on the Megane coupe, that came with the cost of two unusable rear seats. It wasn’t kind to put a person there or any animal larger than a golden fish in a bowl. But Renault knew that its customers wouldn’t use that space for anything else other than a storage area for a shopping bag or two. So yet, it provided comfortable, high-bolstered front bucket seats with velour upholstery on the standard version and an option for a leather-clad interior.

Under the hood, the carmaker axed the 1.4-liter base engine from the Megane lineup and offered the Cabriolet version with a choice of three gasoline engines. These ranged between 90 hp and 150 hp, making the little open-top vehicle an excellent daily driver, especially in cities. But unfortunately for the French carmaker, that version wasn’t as successful.