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Still being tested in advance of its debut later this year, the third generation Renault Megane was picked up by a spy photographer this week. These photos seem to be of the Megane 5-door hatchback. Speculatively based on the Renault Altica concept car from the 2006 Geneva Motor Show, the new Megane should take on several different incantations, including 3-door, 5-door, sedan, and coupe models. A convertible, crossover, and station wagon could also be in the pipeline.

The current generation of the Megane is already six years old, having received a facelift in 2006. Although Renault gave the car a new nose that year, we never really liked the rear of the car. We're hoping this year Renault refreshes the car all around, so that we can feel proud when we drive one. Our artist's rendering, in the gallery at right, shows this cleaned up look. We would also like to assume that the RenaultSport trim level sticks around, with improvements to the trim's 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol engine, getting 225 horsepower.

Supposedly coming out at the Paris Auto Show this September, the Renault Megane Mk3 will be competing against a crowded field, with the Fiat Bravo, Ford Focus, Opel Astra, Peugeot 308, and VW Golf all battling for market share.

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