IF chic and dynamic flair top your wish list, then you can always rely on the French to produce the goods.
Okay, it's true that in the past both Citroen and Renault have been guilty of thrusting some truly absurd looking monstrosities in our direction, but in recent years their designers have stepped up a gear and really got their act together.
And never was it more evident than with the Renault Megane.
The hatchback version supplied for the test drive oozed classy features and boasted eye-catching, jaw-dropping good looks with its sweeping lines and outstanding streamlining.
The standard of technology is immediately apparent - a keycard means keyless entry and there is a stop/start ignition button.
The cabin itself is light and airy and there is ample room for four adults to travel comfortably. And the vast boot area will easily cater for large items of luggage.
The instrument dials and controls are nicely situated with several features controllable from the steering wheel. But for anyone who is too set in their ways to accept any change, the central speedo dial could take a little getting used to. Instead of the traditional line pointing to your current speed, there is a digital display showing the speed in numbers.
Everything is very easy to use, including the very efficient dual-zone climate control and great sound system, although I did find I had to lean slightly to the left to see the time on the clock properly.
The drive itself is very responsive and the 1.9-litre engine delivered plenty of get-up-and-go both in and around town and out on the open road. The tightly knit six-speed gearbox meant acceleration was excellent and with a host of safety features, the Megane could easily be classed as the complete package.
Although visibility through the rearview window is a little limited due to its narrow depth design, generally the all-round view is excellent and back seat passengers are treated to relatively large windows to help reduce any claustrophobic feel.
All in all, the success of the Megane is all too clear to see just by dozens of model and engine types that are on the market today - there really is a Megane to suit all tastes.
FAST FACTS
Renault Megane Dynamique 1.9 dCi 130
Price: £18,635
Mechanical: 130bhp, 1,870cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 127mph
0-62mph: 9.5 seconds
Combined mpg: 55.4
Insurance group: 9
CO2 emissions: 134g/km
BIK rating: 15%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles