More Bonuses has always been at the cutting edge of technological advancement. Hands-free cards from the company are a case in point. Their plastic cases are minimalist and conceal sophisticated electronic components that continually 'communicate' with the car they are paired with.
They are prone to wear and wear and tear. They is also more difficult to use than traditional keys.
The Renault Megane
Renault is among the first companies to introduce a complete range of electric cars to its showrooms. Over 400,000 Zoes were sold across the world and they have been on the road for more than six billion miles. The brand has even built a cloud of data from this, with each car reporting back to the parent company every time they drive, so that Renault can monitor driver behaviour and battery usage. This kind of maturity has been reflected on the Megane too, which is a fine-looking and comfortable hatchback. The Megane isn't as thrilling to drive as the sporty petrol GTI but it has a calm and relaxed attitude, which makes it a great commuter car as well as a motorway cruiser. The 220bhp version's nippy performance and multi-link suspension combine for a smooth and responsive cornering, with the smooth and quiet ride.
The entry-level Expression+ comes with a number of features. It features an LCD display that is digital in place of analogue instruments, air conditioning, cruise control and Bluetooth connectivity. Upgrade to Dynamique Nav and you'll get power-folding mirrors, a 7.0in touchscreen that can be customized that includes sat-nav, dual-zone climate control and front seat height as well as lumbar adjustment and keyless entry. You can also add ambient lighting for the interior at night, and the Harman Kardon nine-speaker stereo system.
The driving modes of MULTISENSE can be selected to suit your mood. Each setting, ranging from neutral to Sport, changes the way your car performs. It also alters the steering feel and throttle response. The most striking feature of this system is that it can adjust the amount of regeneration that it makes to vary from nothing to moderate, medium, and aggressive. This system can save energy on long motorway drives, while still slowing down the vehicle to the point of a crawl.
People who want to maximize the Megane's green credentials will be delighted by its powerful plug-in hybrid system also. Its 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine offers zero-emissions motoring at a standstill and the addition of an electric motor raises the output to 178bhp. This combination provides a combined efficiency of 57mpg. It can also be driven in hyperdrive for more relaxing and economical motorway driving.
Families looking for practicality should check out the rear seats in the Megane as well. They're surprisingly spacious, although taller passengers might find their heads brushing the roofline in the rear. The boot is also a good size and offers plenty of space for luggage. It's a little smaller than competitors such as the MG4 EV or Cupra Born however it has a surprising amount of space: 491 litres. The Renault estate body style is available if you want to expand the space. It gives you an extra 183 cubic litres. This can be extended to 1,231 litres by folding rear seats down flat. Those wanting a more personalised setup can opt of a rear seat that can flip up and down to create a storage space in the floor of the boot. It's a useful feature but one that could raise the cost.
The Renault key card
Renault key cards have been around for quite some time and are a great means of opening and starting your car without needing to remove your keys from your pocket. They work by using RFID technology to communicate with the immobiliser system to issue a code that enables you to unlock the doors or start the engine. These keys are more secure alternative to traditional ones as they cannot be copied or manipulated.
Unfortunately, these innovative devices aren't immune to issues that can arise in time. As they are small and flimsy it's not uncommon to lose them or damage them as a result of normal wear and wear and tear. This is especially the case when they're stored in a pocket that is tight and then squeezed repeatedly or even sat on. This could cause the chip to slip off the card, preventing it from sending the signal to the immobiliser that allows your Renault to open or start.
Renault key cards can display messages like "card not detected" or cease to function completely. This is typically down to the internals of the card becoming damaged due to the constant use of the card or pressure being applied to the delicate circuit board inside. Locksmiths who specialize in Renault key cards can diagnose these issues, fix or replace the card if needed.
It's always a good idea to have an additional Renault key card in your possession in case you lose the one you normally drive with. You can then call locksmiths who can cut and program a brand new key card for your Renault at a fraction of the cost of the dealers.
Most automotive locksmiths who specialise in Renault vehicles will have a large selection of spare key cards in stock. They will generally able to exchange yours on the same day you contact them. You will save money by not having to wait weeks for the dealer in France to purchase the replacement key. These locksmiths are also able to repair damaged Renault cards, whether they were caused by an accident or previous attempts to repair. They are usually able to repair these cards and re-programme them to your Renault at up 70% less than the main dealer.