Renault Megane revealed in official photos

All models wear C-chaped running lights that frame the headlights and dip into the front bumper while the rear lighting reaches deep into the tailgate to create a wide, planted visual effect.

The Renault Megane GT is also bringing the special badging, the Dark Metal touches found on the side mirror caps, the rear diffuser, the double chrome exhaust tips and the 18-inch wheels with a Renaultsport design. It makes the vehicle look much sportier than before, and should help it compete with design-focused competitors like the SEAT Leon and Audi A3.

It remains to be seen if the estate variant also gets a Renault Sport trim.

Lead designer Laurens Van Den Acker told Auto Express he wanted the new Megane to be “aspirational”, with the brand benchmarking its new family hatchback against high-quality rivals like the Volkswagen Golf and Peugeot 308.

It didn’t take long for the dam to break, but after yesterday’s leaked images, Renault has released the first offical pictures of its new Megane small hatch.

Interior photos reveal the model will be equipped with big central display, just like in the Talisman and the Espace, sports leather seats (probably in the GT version), automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, fully digital instrument cluster and a dual-zone automatic climate control.

While official engine options have yet to be revealed, it’s likely the new Megane will be powered by tuned engines from Renault’s current Megane range. Expect a range of turbocharged petrol and diesel units – and while details are scarce, a Renaultsport model is sure to follow. There are plenty of styling cues from Renault’s performance cars, such as the low front grille, which is reminiscent of the Renault Clio RS hot hatchback.