Given the rise of SUVs, the only segment that remains in struggle is that of compact cars. All brands want to be in it and generalists know that it is an important workhorse, so the options to choose from are many and varied. We are looking for a good compact to buy in 2023 and today we are going to choose between the Kia Ceed and the Renault Mégane.
Design
The first element on the list, what enters through the eyes and, simply, something so subjective that it depends on the taste of each one, but it is true that there are certain elements that can be evaluated with a certain objectivity.
The first is the fact that both the Kia and the Renault are already models that, in their current generation, have been around for several years and, therefore, their design language is not so in line with that of the latest releases of their respective marks.
Does that mean they are outdated? Not at all and, in fact, both are holding up well over time, which speaks volumes about the work put in by the design teams.
Measurements and versions
Both models are virtually identical in size, although the Mégane is slightly larger. It has a length of 4,359 mm, a width of 1,814 mm and a height of 1,447 mm, with a wheelbase of 2,669 mm. The Ceed reaches 4,310 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width and 1,447 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,650 mm.
Where the French does make a difference is in terms of the trunk, with 473 liters for the 357 liters of its rival, which by folding down the rear seats becomes 1,367 and 1,253 liters, respectively.
With regard to versions, the balance falls on the side of the Korean because, in addition to as a compact five-door, it is also available as a family car (Ceed Tourer), with the exclusive Proceed bodywork and, although it already counts almost as a separate model, in SUV form with the Kia Xceed. By comparison, the Frenchman is content with just the ranchera format.
Engines
In this section it is noted that the current Mégane is at the end of its life cycle and it is that, in addition to having fewer options than its rival, the electrification is merely testimonial.
The only such variant is only available for the Mégane Sport Tourer and is a 160PS plug-in hybrid. For the five-door, the offer is limited to a 115 CV diesel, a 140 CV gasoline and, exclusively with the RS variant, another 300 CV gasoline power.
In comparison, the Ceed has a much broader offer, and this despite the fact that its only PHEV variant (141 hp) is also exclusive to the family body. Despite this, the compact can mount a gasoline block with 100 and 120 HP, a microhybrid variant of the latter, another 160 HP MHEV gasoline and a 136 HP diesel engine with the same electrification.
Prices
The price is another element in which the Kia Ceed marks a considerable distance from its rival, since its access fee is 19,600 euros, while the cheapest Renault Mégane starts at 25,594 euros.
