Renault Megane Coupe Concept Unveiled

Renault used the Geneva Auto Show to debut their new Megane Coupe Concept, which hints at a future production model. Styled in an attempt to bring out character and dynamism, the concept symbolizes Renault’s idea of a perfect compact sports coupe.

The exterior features aluminum finished air-intakes which flow into the concept’s headlights, meant to convey the impression of movement. A series of crystal-like light strips act as turn signals and daytime running lights, while gull-wing doors provide access to the cabin. 21” wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport tires combine with the sports suspension to create an engaging driving experience.

On the inside Renault took influences from modern furniture to create an upscale driving environment. Independent asymmetric front seats seem to float due to the clever ingenuity of designers. The center console flows into the rear cabin, creating separate seating for two individuals. Featuring the latest technology, the cabin has a central screen which is divided into three separate views. The main screen activates the concept’s various systems such as navigation, radio, and Bluetooth while the two side screens display exterior side views via cameras incorporated into the mirrors. Rear passengers are well accommodated, as the concept has four-zone climate control and a Samsung P2 multimedia player.

Powering the Megane Coupe is a 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine which produces 200 horsepower and 280Nm of torque. Using a six-speed manual transmission, drivers can get the coupe from 0-100 km/h in 7.2 seconds. Fuel consumption is estimated at 6.5 liters per 100km.

Renault previews new Megane Coupe-Cabriolet

TC Eurokars Sdn Bhd had a public preview of four Renault models at its Jalan Semangat showroom on the weekend of the 21st to the 23rd of March 2008. The models displayed were the Renault Megane R26 Renault Sport, the Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet, The Renault Clio RS and the Renault Grand Espace. Reader Al Maarof shares with us some photos snapped of the cars.

The Renault Clio RS has a different 2.0 engine than the one found in the normal 2.0 liter Clio III. While the Clio III used new 2.0 liter Renault M engine (essentially the Nissan MR20DE), the Renault Clio RS uses the F4R – an older 2.0 liter engine in the Renault stables, but one that revs high and produces 197 horsepower at 7,250rpm, and 215Nm of torque at 5,550rpm. Matced to a 6-speed manual, it hits 100km/h in 6.9 seconds

The other hot hatch is the Renault Megane R26 with a torsion beam rear, powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged engine making 230 horsepower at 5,500rpm and 310Nm of torque at 3,000rpm. 0 to 100km/h takes 6.5 seconds with a 6 speed manual. If you look after the jump you’ll see the car’s huge brakes at the front. TC Eurokars indicates this one will come in at about RM235,000 in the second half of 2008.

The less hot Megane you will see after the jump is the Megane Coupe-Cabriolet which features a foldable hard top. It’s 2.0 liter normally aspirated engine makes 135 horses at 5,500rpm and 191Nm of torque at 3,750rpm, paired to a 4-speed auto.

The last car is an MPV – the Renault Grand Espace. This is a replacement model of the NGV-powered third generation Espace used as KLIA taxis we see here in KL. Its turbocharged 2.0 liter engine puts out 170 horses at 5,000rpm and 270Nm of torque at 3,200rpm. It features 6 airbags and seats 7 with independent seats for all passengers.

2011 Vauxhall/Opel Meriva

What was pretty clear from the onset was that the Opel/Vauxhall Insignia would at least inspire, if not set the tone for the next-generation of Opel cars. Evidently this has happened with the upcoming Astra's interior which the company itself says was penned with the Insignia in mind. Nothing wrong there, the Insignia has been applauded for its design, inside and out.

What gives the Astra the edge especially in its segment is the utilisation of space and some of the innovative solutions applied to enhance the experience from a passenger point of view. Designwise we see the Insignia's wing and blade motifs being applied consistently throughout the car. It comes out in places like the gooseneck-shaped door handles and on the gearshift moulding trim.
Opel did a survey among customers to find out how they utilise their interior spaces. The result showed that people generally store twenty common items (not all at once) in their cars, items like cellular phones, CDs, magazines, paper tissues, cups, bottles and even gloves. So they came up with what they call simple, but effective storage solutions. They include the centre console which can take up to nine CD cases while swallowing up two cups at the same time.

For the driver's comfort the Astra's speedometer and tachometer pods angled towards the driver. The seats can be raised by up to 65mm in height, while their fore and aft range goes up to 280mm.

The all-new Opel/ Vauxhall Astra will be shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September and begin selling at UK dealers later in the year.

Mitsubishi Galant Ralliart

Mitsubishi Introduces New 258-HP Galant Ralliart To Spearhead Restyled, Refined 2007 Galant Model LineMitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) has introduced the new high-performance 2007 Galant Ralliart model at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show. Powered by a 258-hp 3.8-liter V-6 engine. Mitsubishi Galant Ralliart @ allcarnews Mitsubishi unveils sketch of 2007 Galant RalliartMitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) today announced that it will be showing new Galant Ralliart at Chicago Auto Show 2006.