WHEN the first pictures of the new Renault Megane were released last year, a straw poll around the office drew a mixed reaction to the car's wild shape.
I was among the doubters, yet hoped - and still hope - the model will prove a resounding success.
Just think about it. How many other manufacturers would gamble on a rear-end like that on one of their niche products, let alone their biggest seller?
The roads are stiff with small hatchbacks that look pretty similar. The Megane is instantly recognisable and owes its shape to the larger, far more expensive Vel Satis and Avantime models.
But the design team didn't stop at the car's profile. The inside is also full of refreshing touches that make the Megane stand out.
For instance there's an aircraft-style handbrake that looks more sensible and is easier to use than a conventional lever.
The dash layout is neat and tidy, its lack of clutter making the cabin look more spacious. And outside there's an F1-type cap-free fuel filler - simple yet effective.
Even the seats feel better than in the old models, and the credit card keyless entry system which originally appeared in the Laguna has been carried over. The only niggle with this is the delay between pressing the start button and the engine actually firing up.
Of course it's not all sweetness and light. Rear space may be a common problem in many cars in this class, and the problem's certainly present in the new Megane.
The 'transmission' tunnel means it is a leg either side for whoever is perched in the middle. Worse still, if the driver needs his seat slid fully back then there's no legroom for whoever may be directly behind, and that goes for kids too. The boot is deceptive though, and certainly adequate for the class of car.
Safety-wise, the Megane is out on its own as the first lower medium sector vehicle to achieve the maximum five-star rating in the EuroNCAP crash tests.
There are four trim levels and a choice of petrol engines as well as a pair of diesels. With prices starting at £10,500 for a 1.4 16v Authentique you really don't need to shell out the extra five grand for the test model.
That said, the 1.9 dCi 120 diesel is a magnificent unit. Linked to a standard six-speed gearbox it's quiet, smooth, strong and exceptional on the motorway. And thanks to a re-working of the chassis, the Megane's ride and handling feels nicely refined too.
Standard spec includes power steering, double optic headlamps with 'See Me Home' function, keyless entry, trip computer and warning system, front underfloor storage, smart rear wiper, five height adjustable headrests and three-point seatbelts.
FAST FACTS
Renault Megane 1.9 dCi Privilege 5-door
Price: £15,600
Mechanical: 120bhp, 1,870cc 4 cyl turbodiesel engine driving front wheels via 5-spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 122mph
0-60mph: 9.7 secs
Combined mpg: 52.3
Insurance group: 7
CO2 emissions: 144g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 12yrs anti-rust; 3yrs paint