Perhaps prompted by last week’s leaked press shots, Renault has now released a whole slew of photos and pages of information on the new third-generation Megane.

The styling of the Megane III is a marked departure from that of the preceding model, with the rather, ahem, pronounced posterior of the current Megane hatch being ditched in favour of a smoother, more conventional tailgate. The glasshouse is less upright and the Megane III flaunts a much more elegant and aerodynamic shape than the current car as well.

The refinements continue in the cabin too. A new instrument cluster with a digital speedo and analogue tachometer give the Megane’s cockpit a sporting flavour, while redesigned seats also make it a more comfortable one. A revamped cruise control system, keyless entry and a Bluetooth-compatible DVD satellite navigation unit also add a hi-tech feel to the new Megane’s interior.

Safety has been upgraded for the new model too, with ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Emergency Brake Assist being fitted to all cars in the Megane range as standard. Dual-chamber head and thorax/groin airbags are also standard, however Electronic Stabilty Control and understeer control are only available on some of the upper-spec models.

The new Megane, despite being larger on both the inside and outside, also manages to be around 8kg lighter than the current model. That, in conjunction with its more aerodynamically slippery form and fuel-sipping engine range, makes the Megane III a much less thirsty vehicle than its predecessor.

The engine lineup comprises five petrol motors and four diesels, with power ranging from 63kW to 134kW and a five or six-speed manual or an automatic transmission taking power to the wheels. Nothing to write home about, sure, but a hi-po Renaultsport version should be making its way down the pipeline in the near future.

For now, Renault has only released pics of the five-door hatchback version of the Megane, although they say that six other bodystyles will be released over the next year that will largely mimic those that make up the current Megane range.

The Megane is scheduled to make its public debut at the Paris Motor Show, which begins on October 4 and runs through to October 19.

GALLERY » 2009 Renault Megane 5-door