The 2020 Renault Megane (Phase 2 Facelift) is the hatchback for those who find the VW Golf too boring. This 4th Generation model originally launched in 2016, but the 2020 update is the one to target. It refined the interior digital screens and, most importantly, solidified the use of the 1.3L Turbo engine—the exact same unit found in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. It brings German engineering with French flair.

The partnership with Daimler pays off here:

• 1.3L TCe (H5H): 138 HP / 240 Nm. RECOMMENDED This 4-cylinder turbo is a gem. It is quiet, punchy, and reliable. It pairs with a 7-speed EDC (dual-clutch) transmission that shifts lightning fast.
• 1.5L dCi (Diesel): 115 HP. The legendary K9K engine. Known for extreme durability and 20+ km/l economy. Best for long-distance commuters.

• Portrait Screen: The huge 9.3-inch portrait touchscreen looks like an iPad glued to the dash. It controls everything, which looks cool but can be distracting.
• Ambient Lighting: The "Multi-Sense" system allows you to change interior lighting colors. It feels much more premium than a Corolla inside.

• Consumption: 15–17 km/l (1.3L Petrol). The engine shuts off cylinders when cruising to save fuel.
• Service: Parts are available via Renault Kenya (Urysia) or specialist importers. It is not as cheap as a Toyota to service—requires synthetic oil and specific filters.
• Resale: Like most French cars, it depreciates quickly. This makes it an amazing value used buy (you get a lot of car for the money), but don't expect to sell it for what you bought it.

Comfort vs Clearance: The suspension is beautifully tuned—it absorbs bumps better than a Mazda Axela. However, at 145mm, it is low. You must be careful. It is a car for the highway and the city, not for "shags."

5-Star Euro NCAP rating. The 2020 model includes active emergency braking and lane departure warning. Reliability of the 1.3L engine is proven (thanks to Mercedes), making this one of the most reliable French cars in decades.

The following are average showroom prices for fresh imports in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.

Who is this for? The discerning driver who wants European build quality and Mercedes power without the "German tax." Who is it NOT for? The conservative buyer who gets anxiety if spare parts aren't available at the local duka.