Renault Megane E-Tech EV40 130hp

Overview

The Renault Megane E-Tech EV40 130hp, marking its final production year in 2025, is a chic French electric SUV that shook up the compact EV scene. This entry-level EV40 trim packs style and decent urban performance into a desirable package. It’s all about accessible electric motoring with a dose of Gallic flair. As a now-discontinued model, it represents excellent value on the pre-owned market, with examples like this trim available for around €21,990. It’s a strong contender if you’re after a fashionable and compact electric daily driver.

What's New for 2025?

For its 2025 swansong, the Megane E-Tech EV40 130hp largely carries forward its established package. Don't expect massive overhauls as Renault winds down production. The focus remains on the successful formula of a stylish design, Google-powered infotainment, and a comfortable ride. This model year solidifies its position as a well-rounded, albeit now outgoing, electric hatchback offering proven technology. Any updates would likely be minor software tweaks or slight revisions to option packages, rather than groundbreaking changes for this particular trim as it concludes its production run.

Design & Exterior

Phwoar, the Megane E-Tech EV40 130hp is a proper head-turner! It sports a sharp, modern SUV silhouette measuring 4200mm long, 1768mm wide, and 1505mm tall. Its distinctive C-shaped LED daytime running lights and sculpted bonnet give it real presence. Even this EV40 trim, likely riding on stylish (though perhaps smaller than top-spec) alloy wheels, boasts flush door handles and a sleek, coupe-like roofline. The design is undeniably cool and makes many rivals look a bit, well, boring. It’s a compact SUV that’s big on style!

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the EV40 130hp, and you're greeted by a surprisingly premium and modern cabin for its class, seating five. The dashboard is dominated by Renault’s OpenR Link infotainment system, usually featuring a crisp central touchscreen and a digital driver’s display, even on this trim, with snappy Google integration including Maps, Assistant, and Play Store apps. Material quality is generally good. Boot space is a practical 440 litres, expanding to a generous 1332 litres with the rear seats folded. Sadly, there's no frunk for your charging cables.

Performance & Driving Experience

The EV40 130hp delivers a zippy urban experience! Its front-wheel-drive setup is powered by a single EESM electric motor, churning out 96 kW (around 130hp) and a useful 250 Nm of torque. This translates to a 0-100 km/h sprint in a respectable 10 seconds, perfectly adequate for city driving and nipping through traffic. The ride is generally comfortable, soaking up bumps well, and handling is neat and tidy. Regenerative braking is on hand to claw back some energy, making one-pedal driving a breeze in town.

Range, Battery & Charging

Powering the EV40 130hp is a 40 kWh (usable) battery pack, offering a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of around 259 km – ideal for daily commutes and city adventures. Its efficiency is rated at a decent 6.48 km/kWh. For charging, it uses the European standard CCS Type 2 port. AC charging is handled by a standard 7.4 kW on-board charger (a 22 kW optional upgrade slashes home charging times). When you need a quick top-up, it can DC fast charge at up to 85 kW.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is a strong suit for the Megane E-Tech, scoring a full five stars in Euro NCAP crash tests. The EV40 130hp trim comes equipped with a solid base of safety kit. You can expect essentials like automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition, and multiple airbags. More advanced features such as adaptive cruise control or a full 360-degree camera system might be part of optional packs or reserved for higher trims, but the core safety offering is reassuringly comprehensive.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Renault typically offers a competitive warranty package in Europe. Expect a general vehicle warranty often around 2-3 years with unlimited kilometres, or a set mileage cap like 100,000 km. The crucial battery warranty usually spans 8 years or 160,000 km, guaranteeing a minimum state of health (often 70%). As an EV, maintenance is generally lower than petrol cars, focusing on tyres, brakes, and cabin filters. Check with your local Renault dealer for the precise terms applicable at the time of purchase or for pre-owned models.