Both the Renault Mégane and Ford Ka get a major makeover and Ferrari gets shirty with the FIA
French fancy
The famous backside is slimmer, but the new Renault Mégane is actually roomier
One of 2008’s most eagerly anticipated unveilings was Renault’s new Megane, shown off for the first time at the Paris Show.
The company tells us this version features impressive driving dynamics, high levels of quality and new technology, an extensive range of diesel and petrol engines and improvements in environmental impact and safety.
Playing it safe for broadest market appeal, Renault hasn’t made any revolutionary changes, but the new model is fresh and appealing. The controversial rear end has been slimmed down and designers have injected styling cues from motor sport and the new Laguna. Shorter front and rear overhangs, broad shoulders, a wide track and a steeply raked roofline have resulted in a car that is more robust, sporty and dynamic looking than its predecessor. At 4.3m in length, with a
2.64m wheelbase, it’s slightly larger and roomier overall, even though it’s about 8kg lighter, which will contribute to efficiency.
The cabin looks durable and well equipped, with chrome- rimmed dials, easier to read instruments, Carminat Bluetooth CD navigation system and a custom audio system. There’s also hands-free entry and ignition and automatic locking as the driver walks away from the car.
A range of dCi and TCe engines, combining performance with efficiency, will be available, including four diesels with a CO2 output of 120g/km or less. Renault claims revisions to the steering and overall dynamics will make the cars easier to drive. In terms of safety, features such as double side-impact sensors and the Laguna’s dual-chamber airbags will be included.
The five-door hatch is the first of six new Megane models to be released. The rest of the range will be launched by 2010 and is expected to include a three-door coupé and Renualtsport models. Prices start at €18,400.
Ford goes funky with new Ka
All new model bags a role in latest Bond movie
Ford’s funky new Ka is grabbing the headlines as the Bond Girl car of choice. In Quantum Of Solace it’s driven by Camille, the leading lady, played by Olga Kurylenko. It’s certainly pleasingly chunkier and more robust than its predecessor. Aimed squarely at a young, image- conscious audience, it’s eye- catching both inside and out.
Remarkably roomy despite its compact proportions, and bold in its styling with fabrics splashed with kindergarten colours, this new Ka is available in four trims: Studio, Style, Style+ and Zetec. Entertainment option packs are also available.
Heated windscreen and seats are offered – a first in the small car sector – and the body shell combined with an Intelligent Protection System (IPS) that integrates airbags, restraint systems and seating technologies is said to provide a highly effective occupant safety system.
In the all-new Ka the suspension, chassis and steering have all been fine tuned to deliver, Ford claims, the most exciting driving experience of any small car. Efficiency is extremely good, as you’d expect, with engines like the first Ka diesel – a 1.3ltr Duratorq TDCi – delivering
67.2mpg. Most of the engine outputs fall below the crucial 120g/ km CO2 mark. Available early 2009, prices will start at about €9,300.
In the news
Ferrari may quit F1 over engines
It’s been quite a year for team Ferrari, with a number of problems costing them the individual championship for Felipe Massa, but not the team prize. Now the Italian giant is considering pulling out of Formula One altogether in 2010, if plans announced by the FIA to standardise engines in an effort to cut costs becomes a reality.
Ferrari agrees with the need to reduce costs of competing in the sport, but in a recent statement said the company has “major reservations”. It went on to explain: “F1 is based on technological development and, thanks to these elements, Ferrari has been an integral part. If these elements were to become obsolete, we reserve the right to evaluate whether we would want to continue in F1.”
Bernie Ecclestone continues to play down fears that manufacturers might quit the sport over the standardised engine issue. “I don’t see why they should leave,” he said. “We are saving them an awful lot of money. All the technical things will still be there, so they can show all their talent…”
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