2003 RENAULT Megane Coupe – Cabrio 2.0L 16V Turbo 6MT FWD (163 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Renault Megane was in its second generation, and the French automaker tried to offer it in as many versions as possible; moreover, it joined the coupe-cabriolet arena.

In the mid-2000s, many European automakers started to join the coupe-cabriolet trend. Besides Peugeot and Mercedes-Benz, who were the firestarters of this segment, Renault tried its luck too. Thus, it could provide the coupe and the open-top versions in a single vehicle. Convertibles were appreciated in the sunny sides of Europe, while coupes were demanded by those living in Northern areas. That was easy to understand. Yet, those from the colder countries could sometimes enjoy an open-top vehicle, but not so often. In addition, a solid roof could better protect a car from elements and provide better thermal insulation.

Sporting the same front fascia as the rest of the Megane range, the Coupe-cabriolet version came with a different styling from the A-pillars rearwards. They also had to serve as a protective safety arch and, in addition, allow for a raked windshield. Since there was no B-pillar, the overall profile looked clean and elegant. At the back, Renault carried over some parts from the rest of the Megane range.

Inside, customers could enjoy both open or closed-top trips. Moreover, Renault offered a panoramic glass roof, so the cabin was warmed by natural lights on cold but sunny days. When retracted, the greenhouse disappeared behind the rear bench, with limited room for two adult passengers. Unfortunately, the car had to be stopped to open or close the roof. Yet, it took only 20 seconds to complete any of these two operations.

Under the hood, Renault provided a wide choice of diesel or gasoline engines. But unfortunately, the car was quite heavy, so fuel efficiency was not exactly one of the vehicle’s qualities.