Renault’s Mégane II has been voted “Car of the Year 2003” by a jury of 58 motoring journalists from 22 European countries, scoring 322 points ahead of the Mazda 6 (302 points) and Citroën C3 (214 points).
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Thirty new models were in the running for the 2003 award.
The jury praised the “expressive” design of the Mégane II in what is usually a conservative market segment and also applauded its ride and handling and sophisticated passive safety system.
The Mégane II was launched on October 11 and will be on sale in the whole of Western Europe by the end of November.
Renault claims sales are well above forecasts with the five-door hatchback and diesel models both accounting for 70% of orders.
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By GlobalDataRenault also says that customers, particularly those for the three-door Sport Hatch, are considerably younger and were often previously owners of rival brands.
This is the fifth time that Renault has received the “Car of the Year” award having previously won with the 16 in 1966, 9 in 1982, Clio in 1991 and Mégane Scénic in 1997.
Renault will introduce five- and seven-seater MPV, coupé-cabriolet, saloon, sport tourer, and sports derivative models in the next 16 months.
