2023 Renault Megane E-Tech Electric edges closer to Australian showrooms

The 2023 Renault Megane E-Tech Electric has appeared on a Federal Government database, ahead of an Australian launch due in late 2023.

The Megane small SUV – which adopts the name of Renault's iconic hatchback – will offer up to 450 kilometres of claimed driving range (WLTP test cycle) from a 60kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

All Australian models at launch are set to feature an electric motor sending 160kW and 300Nm to the front wheels, for a claimed 0-100km/h sprint time of 7.4 seconds.

Overseas, the 60kWh battery can be optioned with a less-powerful 96kW/250Nm electric motor, allowing up to 470km of driving on a single charge (claimed, WLTP test) – however this isn't expected to be available initially in Australia.

MORE: 2023 Renault Megane RS Ultime revealed as send-off special, due in Australia mid 2023

While specifications have yet to be confirmed by Renault, information currently available suggests Australian buyers will only be offered the larger 60kWh battery with the two e-motors. Overseas markets also get the option of a 40kWh battery with a 300km driving range.

There are expected to be two model grades in Australia, Techno and Iconic.

The Megane E-Tech Electric is capable of DC fast charging at up to 130kW, which can deliver between 200 to 300 kilometres of driving range in 30 minutes, depending on how the vehicle is being driven.

As reported earlier, the SUV debuts Renault's new 'Open-R' infotainment system, which integrates the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 9.0- or 12-inch touchscreen, integrating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and running through a nine-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.

Autonomous emergency braking has been confirmed for Australian models, while overseas variants feature adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane following assist, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic parking, a digital rear-view mirror, and 360-degree cameras with 3D view.

MORE: Renault Group unveils future plans: 24 new models by 2025, electric-only Alpine to replace Renault Sport

The small SUV measures in at 4200mm long, 1768mm wide, 1500mm high, and with a wheelbase of 2685mm.

Local pricing hasn't been announced at this stage, but if overseas models are a guide, the electric Renault may be priced from about $60,000, depending on options and specifications.

Stay tuned for more announcements on the 2023 Renault Megane E-Tech Electric ahead of a local launch later this year.