Renault is gearing up to give its Megane a striking “hot hatch” makeover in 2026, aiming to revitalise the electric vehicle’s (EV) dwindling sales. The current Megane, launched in 2022, was among the first of Renault’s new wave of electric cars. Initially successful, the model has seen a significant drop in sales, which plummeted by 67% in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year. The downturn coincides with the introduction of newer and more affordable EV models like the Renault 4 and 5, which have significantly outperformed the Megane in sales.
A Strategic Pivot at the Munich Motor Show
The announcement of the Megane’s transformation came from Renault CEO Fabrice Cambolive during the Munich Motor Show. Cambolive emphasised the need to reposition the Megane as a “hot car” to attract buyers. Reflecting on the vehicle’s launch, he noted, “Megane E-Tech was our first, real EV car since the beginning of ‘Renaulution’. It was launched at a moment where the EV [uptake] was not so high.” Cambolive’s remarks underscore Renault’s commitment to adapting to the rapidly evolving EV market.
Enhancements Under the Hood
While Cambolive remained tight-lipped about the specifics, he hinted at significant technical upgrades for the Megane, including a larger battery. The anticipated 91kWh battery pack, currently used in the larger Renault Scenic, could boost the Megane’s range to 379 miles, an 87-mile improvement over the most efficient current model. This enhancement aligns with Renault’s strategy to offer more competitive electric range options in their vehicles, addressing a critical consumer demand in the EV market.
Design Overhaul: A Bold New Look
Renault’s Group design chief, Laurens van den Acker, echoed the necessity for a fresh approach to the Megane’s design. “We need to sell more of it,” he stated, acknowledging the sales challenges. Van den Acker explained that simply upgrading the battery without a corresponding design refresh would not suffice to justify a price increase or attract new buyers. “We thought that what the world was missing was kind of a hot-looking EV. And so we thought we had nothing to lose, so we’ll just push that,” he added.
Although specific design details remain under wraps, sources suggest the facelift will feature a new grille, updated daytime running lights, and a lower, wider stance. These changes aim to give the Megane a sportier and more aggressive appearance, appealing to consumers seeking a dynamic and stylish EV.
Market Implications and Future Prospects
The revamped Megane is expected to debut in mid-2026, with a probable price increase from the current starting price of £32,495. This strategic move by Renault reflects a broader industry trend towards differentiating EV offerings through design and performance enhancements, as manufacturers vie for a more significant share of the growing electric vehicle market.
Renault’s decision to pivot the Megane towards a “hot hatch” aesthetic highlights the brand’s adaptive approach in a competitive landscape. As EV adoption continues to rise, the market’s appetite for innovative and exciting designs will likely grow. Renault’s ability to successfully execute this transformation could set a precedent for other automakers facing similar challenges with their EV line-ups.
The upcoming changes to the Renault Megane mark a pivotal moment for the brand, as it seeks to reinvigorate a model that once led the charge in Renault’s electric vehicle revolution. With a bold new design and enhanced performance features, the Megane is poised to re-enter the market with renewed vigour, appealing to a new generation of EV enthusiasts.