The third-generation Renault Megane 2008–2016, known as Mk3 (Type X95), marked a major step forward for the French brand with its sharp styling, diverse powertrain options, and spacious layout. In this guide, we dive deep into the Renault Megane 2008–2016 engines, transmission pairings, body dimensions, and year-by-year updates. We'll highlight aspects relevant to U.S. buyers, where fuel quality and highway driving play key roles – especially for gray-market imports. For exterior looks, interior features, trim levels, and common issues, check our other articles in the series.
The Renault Megane III launched in 2008 on the alliance's C platform, delivering improved body rigidity (+20%) and better noise insulation. European sales began late 2008, with production running through 2016 (including the 2012 facelift). Over 3.5 million units were built worldwide, and while not officially sold new in the U.S., imported examples occasionally appear on sites like classifieds and specialty dealers.
Engines and Transmissions
The Renault Megane engine lineup for the third generation offers plenty of variety: naturally aspirated gasoline units to turbo diesels with common rail injection. Options include gasoline K4M (1.6L), H4J/H4Bt (1.4 TCe), F4Rt (2.0 TCe), and diesels K9K (1.5 dCi), M9R (2.0 dCi). Power ranges from 90 to 220 hp in hot GT variants. Most are front-wheel drive (FWD), with all-wheel drive (4WD Extrem) rare and limited to certain 2.0 dCi models.
Transmissions: 5/6-speed manual (JR5/PK6), 4-speed automatic (DP0, uncommon), CVT (Jatco, gasoline models), 6-speed dual-clutch EDC (from 2010). Real-world fuel economy (mixed cycle, in mpg):
- Gasoline 1.6 16V (110 hp): 29–33 mpg
- Gasoline 1.4 TCe (130 hp): 35–40 mpg
- Diesel 1.5 dCi (90–110 hp): 42–52 mpg
- Diesel 2.0 dCi (150 hp): 39–47 mpg
| Engine (type, displacement) | Power, hp | Transmission | Drive | Fuel Economy (mixed, mpg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gasoline, 1.6 16V (K4M) | 110 | 5-speed manual / 4-speed auto / CVT | FWD | 29–33 |
| Gasoline, 1.4 TCe (H4Bt) | 130 | 6-speed manual / EDC-6 | FWD | 35–40 |
| Gasoline, 2.0 TCe (F4Rt, GT) | 180/220 | 6-speed manual / EDC-6 | FWD | 27–31 |
| Diesel, 1.5 dCi (K9K) | 90/105/110 | 6-speed manual / EDC-6 | FWD | 42–52 |
| Diesel, 2.0 dCi (M9R) | 130/150/160 | 6-speed manual / 6-speed auto | FWD / 4WD | 39–47 |
Table covers 2008–2016 models, including facelifts. Diesels shine on long highway drives with premium unleaded or ultra-low sulfur diesel.
Dimensions and Weight
The Renault Megane III is a solid C-segment compact emphasizing comfort: length around 169 inches, ground clearance 5.9 inches (decent for varied roads). Body styles: 5-door hatchback, 3-door coupe, Grandtour wagon, CC convertible. Curb weight from 2,650 lbs (gasoline) to 3,100 lbs (diesel 4WD). Trunk space: 14.3/43.8 cu ft (hatch), 18.5/56.6 cu ft (wagon). Fuel tank – 15.9 gallons. FWD standard, 4WD optional on select GT/diesels.
| Parameter | 5-door Hatchback | 3-door Coupe | Grandtour Wagon | CC Convertible |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Length, inches | 169.4 | 169.3 | 179.9 | 172.1 |
| Width, inches | 71.0 | 71.0 | 71.0 | 71.0 |
| Height, inches | 57.9 | 56.0 | 59.0 | 56.3 |
| Wheelbase, inches | 104.0 | 104.0 | 104.0 | 105.3 |
| Ground clearance, inches | 5.9 | 5.9 | 5.9 | 5.5 |
| Curb weight, lbs | 2,650–2,980 | 2,600–2,910 | 2,870–3,200 | 3,090–3,420 |
| Gross weight, lbs | 3,920–4,230 | 3,880–4,190 | 4,145–4,455 | 4,300–4,630 |
| Trunk volume, cu ft (min/max) | 14.3/43.8 | 12.1/41.4 | 18.5/56.6 | 8.5/36.7 |
| Drive | FWD / 4WD | FWD | FWD / 4WD | FWD |
| Transmission type | 5/6-speed manual, EDC-6, 4-speed auto, CVT | 5/6-speed manual, EDC-6, 4-speed auto, CVT | 5/6-speed manual, EDC-6, 4-speed auto, CVT | 6-speed manual, 6-speed auto |
Figures for main variants; GT models lose about 0.4 inches clearance. Wagons appeal for utility on longer trips.
Updates by Year and Facelift
The Renault Megane III received a facelift in January 2012 (Phase II), with further tweaks in 2014 (Phase III) including LED daytime lights. Pre-2012 focused on launching the 1.4 TCe (130 hp) and EDC. From 2012: new engines like 1.2 TCe (115/130 hp) with Stop&Start (-15% fuel use), updated 1.5 dCi 110 hp, and 1.6 dCi 130 hp (cleaner emissions). Chassis upgrades: stiffer subframe, revised springs/dampers for sharper handling, refined EDC. In 2014: 1.2 TCe 130 hp standard, 2.0 TCe 220 hp for GT.
Post-facelift models (2012+) offer better efficiency (about 2–3 mpg gain) and modern features, making them preferable for highway-focused driving.
What to Know When Buying: Ownership Notes for U.S. Imports
Owning a Renault Megane III as an import can be rewarding, but parts sourcing requires European specialists. Gasoline 1.6 16V models are reliable (300k+ miles potential), no turbo, but expect 25–30 mpg city on premium unleaded. 1.4 TCe is peppy but watch timing chain (replace 60–90k miles, ~$400) and rare coolant/oil mixing issues. Diesels 1.5 dCi excel in efficiency (400k+ miles) but need quality ultra-low sulfur diesel; EGR/DPF cleaning every 30–50k miles (~$150), turbo ~$300k miles.
Transmissions: Manuals are bulletproof (250k+ miles). EDC dual-clutch needs fluid changes every 40k miles (~$100) and can overheat in traffic; clutch packs last 50–75k miles (~$800–$1,200). CVT suits city driving but belt replacement ~60k miles (~$600). 4WD clutch pack reliable with regular fluid swaps.
Parts are available via online importers (40–60% off OEM). Use premium unleaded (91+ octane) for best performance. Check compression, DPF/EGR condition, EDC shifting, and underbody rust protection. Annual maintenance for high-mileage examples: $500–$1,000.
Bottom Line: Top Pick on the Used Import Market
Orientative market price for the United States (imported used examples): $4,000–$9,000. Best spec – 1.5 dCi 110 hp diesel + 6-speed manual + FWD (2012+). Why: 42–52 mpg (savings ~$400/year vs gasoline), strong longevity, solid resale among enthusiasts, service ~$300–$500/year. Gasoline alternative: 1.6 16V + manual for simplicity. Avoid early EDC with 1.4 TCe. Great for daily commuting or road trips: comfortable, affordable to run, and well-suited to premium fuel and interstate highways. For longer hauls with all-weather grip: 2.0 dCi + manual + 4WD, though +15% running costs.
Renault Megane III – a mature European compact with 300–400k mile potential when properly maintained.
