The fourth-generation Renault Megane may not have been the sales success that Renault was hoping for but that doesn't mean that it's a bad buy. Find out why the model didn't succeed and which model is the best to go for if you're in the market for a used car.
Mentions the name Megane and most will immediately think of the RS performance models that were known to give the odd GTI a hard time at the lights. The fact is that the Megane has been with us for quite a while and we’ve seen all four versions of the model. Most have been hatches, especially locally, but the Megane name was also applied to sedans, estates and folding hard-top CCs (Coupe Convertibles).
Current market trends and a booming SUV uptake did little for the last generation of the Megane and despite being packed with amazing technology and some wonderful engines, the model line was discontinued in 2021, citing slow sales as a result of a market that is centred around SUVs.
Model Range
The fourth generation Renault Megane was offered in a variety of flavours. Engine choices consisted of 1.2-litre turbocharged units to high-power 1.8-litre turbocharged engines producing over 220 kW. Not all models were released simultaneously though and we first saw the fourth generation Megane in 2016. The model range was expanded in 2018 and then the RS Trophy models followed in 2020.
| Model | Year | Engine |
| Megane RS Trophy EDC | 2020 | 221 kW 1.8 Turbo |
| Megane RS Trophy Manual | 2020 | 221 kW 1.8 Turbo |
| Megane RS 280 Lux | 2018 | 205 kW 1.8 Turbo |
| Megane RS 280 Cup | 2018 | 205 kW 1.8 Turbo |
| Megane GT | 2016 | 151 kW 1.6 Turbo |
| Megane GT-Line EDC | 2016 | 97 kW 1.2 Turbo |
| Megane GT-Line Manual | 2016 | 97 kW 1.2 Turbo |
| Megane Dynamique EDC | 2018 | 97 kW 1.2 Turbo |
| Megane Dynamique Manual | 2018 | 97 kW 1.2 Turbo |
| Megane Dynamique Manual | 2016 | 85 kW 1.6 |
| Megane Expression | 2018 | 85 kW 1.6 |
Depreciation
With a fairly short run for some of the models, primarily the RS models, the depreciation hasn’t taken full effect. Older models, those introduced at the launch of the fourth generation are feeling the pinch a little more than others. Some models were also so unpopular that current data isn’t extractable on their current market value. These models may still be in circulation though.
We’re looking at their current market value and comparing that to their original list price when released. That means that the older models, those released in 2016 and 2018 may show a higher depreciation as the years rack on. This calculation also doesn’t take into account the condition of the individual vehicles and is based on an average market value.
| Model | List price | Market value | Depreciation (%) |
| Megane RS Trophy EDC | R 799 900 | R 700 000 | -12,49 |
| Megane RS Trophy Manual | R 774 900 | NA | |
| Megane RS 280 Lux | R 549 900 | R 476 000 | -13,44 |
| Megane RS 280 Cup | R 549 900 | R 483 333 | -12,11 |
| Megane GT | R 449 900 | R 280 000 | -37,76 |
| Megane GT-Line EDC | R 354 900 | R 264 000 | -25,61 |
| Megane GT-Line Manual | R 339 900 | R 248 250 | -26,96 |
| Megane Dynamique EDC | R 344 900 | R 278 000 | -19,40 |
| Megane Dynamique Manual | R 314 900 | R 212 000 | -32,68 |
| Megane Dynamique Manual (2016) | R 279 900 | NA | |
| Megane Expression | R 274 900 | R 245 000 | -10,88 |
Verdict
The biggest loser is the fairly uncommon and seemingly unpopular Renault Megane GT. Despite having a peppy 151 kW 1.6 turbo engine, this trim level has depreciated by over 37%. The RS models fare well, losing approximately 12% over the years but the winner is the entry-level model, the Megane 84 kW Expression which has only lost 10.88% over the years that it’s been on the market. The low initial purchase price and ever-increasing used car prices show that the Expression model is retaining its value rather well.
Chad LückhoffWith over 18 years of motorsport commentary and a passion for 90s Japanese Sports Cars, Chad Lückhoff is happiest when surrounded by drift cars and smoking tyres. His experience as the Technical Editor of the country’s top tuning magazine means that it’s the nuts and bolts of motoring that tickles his fancy. As comfortable in front of the camera as he is behind it, he’ll take you behind the wheel with his video reviews, written recounts, and invoking photography. One of the first to join the AutoTrader fray, Chad has been living his passion at AutoTrader for over 7-years.View News & Reviews
Keyword: Which Renault Megane trim depreciates the fastest?