Nobody can accuse Renault of not making the most of the Megane platform. From the five distinct body styles (six if you include the estate which isn’t available here), there’s a model to suit most tastes. This Coupe represents the sporting end of the range, of course, and nothing in the line-up comes sportier than the 2.0 IDE. Its 140bhp comes from Renault’s direct injection petrol engine (the first European power unit of its kind) that boasts a smoother and more muscular torque curve than its predecessor. What it lacks in refinement – it’s boomy mid range and at high revs – it makes up for by providing brisk initial acceleration, followed by a fiery thrust from 4000rpm onwards. Adding to the fun is a smooth and co-operative (if slightly long-throw) gear change.

Most people will give Renault credit for this Megane’s makeover from holdall to sporty looking roadholder. It’s quick, soundly built and safe, with a fair amount of driver entertainment value. Yet somehow, its humdrum origins still show. Unlike the Puma, this Megane doesn’t capture the more discerning driver’s total involvement or enjoyment. Colourful but not a classic.