In recent years, Renault has done a cracking line in flamboyant styling, and the new Megane is certainly no exception. Stood next to the conservative and rather humdrum aesthetic offerings that fill the family hatchback class, the Megane really catches the eye. You might recognise the C-shaped headlamp design (complete with LED daytime running lights on every model) from other recent Renault models. There?s plenty more of interest besides, with all sorts of curves and creases, leading to the elongated tail lights that stretch almost right across the rear end. All versions of the car have alloy wheels and colour-coding for the bumpers and door mirrors, but aside from different sizes and designs for the wheels. Being a Renault, you?d expect the Megane to be one of the safest cars in its class, and, indeed, the car has earned the maximum five-star rating from Euro NCAP. All versions come with six airbags and tyre pressure monitoring, while all but the entry-level version also have lane departure warning and automatic high/low beam lights. Anyone who chooses a Megane will enjoy a generous amount of standard equipment. The entry-level Expression+ model comes with alloy wheels, cruise control, air-con, four electric windows and a DAB stereo with Bluetooth, while the upgrade to Dynamique Nav trim earns you nav (obviously!), climate control, automatic lights and wipers, keyless entry, rear parking sensors and part-leatherette upholstery. Black, £14,450