Skip advert
Advertisement

Renault Megane CC vs. A3 Cabriolet

Is new metal-top Renault Mégane C-C the summer’s hottest cabrio? We pitch it against Audi’s fabric roof A3

Renault Megane CC vs. A3 Cabriolet

WITH summer in full swing and temperatures soaring, convertible models are all the rage. And there’s never been more choice, with buyers able to opt for anything from two-seater sports cars to luxuriously appointed open-top cruisers.

Competition is fiercest in the compact cabrio class, where mainstream and premium rivals go head-to-head in the battle for drop-top honours. The latest addition is Renault’s new-look Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The second generation inherits the folding metal hard-top of the original, but promises an extra dose of style and refinement. Even in £23,095 entry-level Dynamique TomTom trim, the Renault is loaded with equipment, while its 128bhp 1.9-litre diesel promises to blend strong performance with low running costs.

Don’t underestimate the draw of a prestige badge, though. On paper, Audi’s A3 Cabriolet Sport is at a disadvantage. It’s pricier, at £23,570, has a smaller engine, less kit and a fabric roof – but claws back ground with its low emissions, agile handling and build quality. So, which car lets a little sunshine into your life?

Verdict

We expected this battle for four-seater drop-top honours to be closely fought. But it proved remarkably one-sided. The new Renault takes up where its predecessor left off, delivering a desirable folding metal roof and offering decent value for money. And its punchy 1.9-litre diesel serves up a decisive performance advantage, with no real shortfall in fuel economy. But it’s hard to overlook the model’s flaws. The styling comes down to personal taste, yet there’s no getting away from the cramped cabin and the reduction in luggage capacity when the heavyweight hard-top is stowed. In contrast, the Audi is a perfect cabriolet companion. Pert looks, an agile chassis and refined fabric hood underpin its appeal, while the roomy cabin, beautiful build quality and premium image are the icing on the cake.

1. Audi A3 Cabriolet 1.6 TDI Sport
THE Audi puts in a polished performance to take victory here. The combination of classy looks, a fast-folding hood and composed driving dynamics makes it hugely desirable. Sealing the deal are its efficient 1.6-litre diesel, excellent predicted residual values and versatile cabin. Only limited standard kit marks the A3 down.

2. Renault Megane C-C dCi 130 Dynamique
GIVEN Renault’s strong tradition for making drop-top four-seaters, the latest Mégane C-C is a disappointment. With its awkward looks, tightly packaged cabin and higher running costs, it can’t match the desirable Audi. Still, it’s overflowing with standard kit and has strong performance.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,672 off RRP*Used from £16,000
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £3,158 off RRP*
MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £7,800 off RRP*Used from £12,200
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £2,474 off RRP*Used from £15,920
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Dacia’s baby EV due in 12 months with a tiny £15k price tag
Dacia £15k EV design render

Dacia’s baby EV due in 12 months with a tiny £15k price tag

Dacia's new model will be developed in double-quick time, and it'll be built in Europe to avoid China tariffs
News
24 Jul 2025
Renault will “stick to the plan” as it hits number 2 in Europe
Renault 5 - front static

Renault will “stick to the plan” as it hits number 2 in Europe

Renault has no plans to fight Volkswagen for sales supremacy, despite huge growth in EV sales due to new Renault 5
News
23 Jul 2025
New MG IM6 review: the EV to finally tame Tesla
MG IM6 - front

New MG IM6 review: the EV to finally tame Tesla

The new MG IM6 boasts a dual-motor set-up with an astonishing 741bhp
Road tests
23 Jul 2025