Renault Megane to switch from front-wheel drive and target 750 km range
Renault is preparing a major technological shift. The next-generation electric Megane will switch from front-wheel to rear-wheel drive, gain a more powerful electric motor and could travel up to 750 kilometres on a single charge. The new platform will also support all-wheel drive and range-extender hybrid versions. The first Renault models using this technology are expected to reach the market in 2028.
Rear-wheel drive to change the Megane's driving characteristics
According to British publication Auto Express, Renault is developing a new RG EV Medium 2.0 platform suitable for cars measuring 4.3–4.8 metres in length. The architecture uses rear-wheel drive as its default layout, moving away from the current Megane E-Tech's front-wheel-drive design.
Renault's chief technology officer Philippe Brunet says front-wheel drive has limited the scope for tuning the handling and suspension of the Megane and Scenic to date. The issue becomes even more significant with more powerful electric motors.
The new platform's rear electric motor is intended to produce approximately 202 kW and 350 Nm. By comparison, the current Megane E-Tech offers 160 kW and 300 Nm.
Rear-wheel drive allows steering and propulsion duties to be split between the two axles. This reduces the load on the front wheels under acceleration and gives engineers more scope to tune steering feel and the chassis.
The architecture also allows a second electric motor to be fitted to the front axle to create all-wheel-drive versions.
Up to 750 km on electric power or 1,400 km with a range-extender
Renault aims to achieve a WLTP range of up to 750 km with the new platform. This is a significant improvement over the Megane E-Tech updated in 2026, whose 67 kWh LFP battery provides a range of more than 500 km.
The new architecture also supports range-extender powertrains. In this configuration, a petrol engine generates electricity, while electric motors drive the wheels. Renault promises a WLTP range of up to 1,400 km with this setup.
These figures, however, represent the platform's maximum intended capabilities, rather than confirmed specifications for a particular Megane.
Megane could become larger and sportier
The new platform will also bring different body proportions. A longer wheelbase, shorter overhangs and a lower body will allow for a more aerodynamic design.
Renault is considering a comprehensive redesign of the Megane but has yet to confirm the body style for its next generation. The same architecture will definitely underpin the next Scenic and Rafale models.
In Europe, the new Megane will have to compete with the Volkswagen ID.3, Cupra Born and Kia EV4. If Renault decides to make the model significantly larger, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Tesla Model Y could also join its list of rivals.
Renault's biggest challenge, however, is not simply increasing range. The new Megane must combine better handling, fast charging and a competitive price. Rear-wheel drive could make it more enjoyable to drive, but to win over buyers, Renault must also bring the new technology to market at a reasonable price.
