Renault Megane convertible 2005 review: snapshot

Convertibles, cabrios, roadsters, call them what you will, are OK for Aussie conditions but definitely not the go on hot days.

The notion of "fun in the sun" driving is wrong because it ain't fun blistering away in a car under a searing sun.

This issue and being caught in a flash thunderstorm have been addressed by fast opening and closing roofs of either metal or vinyl.

It's cool to have a roofless car that's for sure, great for the ego, an image maker. And on cooler days, in the evening or early morning they are a treat.

Renault has entered the fray with something different – a glass roof cabriolet.

The Megane Coupe-Cabriolet's roof is in two pieces and folds quickly into the boot leaving minimal luggage space. With the roof up, the boot is a good size.

It's a four seater of sorts with the rear pews suitable for kids due to a lack of legroom.

Access is by large doors and there's plenty of room inside the Megane for two and head clearance is good thanks to a manual a seat though head clearance could be an issue for taller drivers or people with a bouffant hairstyle.

The Megane shares its face with other Meganes (sedan and hatch) but pretty well all other body panels are unique on the Coupe-Cabriolet.

Underneath, it's all standard Megane – a 2.0-litre four cylinder petrol engine, five speed manual or four speed auto transmission, front wheel drive, electric power steering, strut and torsion beam suspension, all mainstream stuff.

Power output is 98kW with 191Nm of torque. It is adequate to push the 1430kg Megane along at a decent clip with the manual obviously having more punch.

Safety is a high priority these days and the Megane doesn't fall short with a five star European NCAP crash test rating – the highest.

And Renault has ensured Megane Coupe-Cabriolet buyers will be pampered with an extensive range of luxury equipment like leather upholstery, rain sensing wipers auto headlights, good audio, climate control and plenty more.Renault persists with the annoying card and push button ignition system.

It is a stylish car from all angles but the consensus around the office was that women more than men would like the styling.

And that's precisely where Renault is pitching this $47,990 cabrio – at wealthy women. Just like most of the other players in the market.