Renault Megane E-Tech Esprit Alpine locked for Australia

The facelifted Renault Megane E-Tech is set to arrive in Australia in 2027, and now it’s been confirmed the sportier Esprit Alpine variant of the electric SUV will be made available to local buyers.

Speaking to media, Renault Australia General Manager Glen Sealey has revealed the Megane E-Tech Esprit Alpine will begin arriving in local dealerships in the first quarter of 2027.

With a 160kW/300Nm electric motor driving the front wheels, the Esprit Alpine comes with exterior highlights and 20-inch alloy wheels.

The 67kWh battery has a claimed WLTP range of up to 500km, while the 0-100km/h sprint is said to be covered in 7.6 seconds.

Inside, there’s a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 12-inch infotainment touchscreen, plus unique trims and upholstery.

The updated Megane also features maximum DC fast-charging at up to 165kW – up from 35kW – and vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability.

As part of the Megane E-Tech facelift, the vehicle receives sportier styling including new headlights and tail-lights, a slightly larger battery, and 20mm-higher suspension.

Renault discounted the outgoing Megane E-Tech to $49,990 drive-away earlier this year, equating to an approximate discount of up to $12,000, which Mr Sealey says has been a successful strategy for the model.

“The current Megane, we have a handful of cars left in dealer stock, and that’s it,” Mr Sealey said.

“The new Megane, which we’ll bring out in H1 next year, will be an Esprit Alpine specification, [with] pricing yet to be confirmed.

“But we think that [lower pricing strategy] will work better for us.”

While the new version will be a higher grade, the Renault Australia boss says the company is working on keeping pricing competitive.

“We realise that you have to compete in the marketplace. It’s a dynamic marketplace, it’s a disruptive marketplace, and if you can’t compete with some level of attainability, you’re not going to compete,” he said.

“So, yes, we will be competitive on the car, but will we be at the same level as today? No.”

Exact pricing and specifications for the 2027 Renault Megane E-Tech Esprit Alpine will be announced closer to the model’s Australian launch.

MORE: Explore the Renault Megane E-Tech showroom