Every once in a while something really special comes along that sets new standards in its class. Something like the New Renault Mégane small family car which, as well as its futuristic styling, brings 21st century technology to the mass market.

That means to you and me.

And you don’t have to be a high-tech geek to appreciate the technology on offer.

The car is the latest stunning expression of Renault’s new design philosophy, reflecting many of the design features of its Executive class contender, Vel Satis.

Major accolades have come the way of this ‘Son of Vel Satis’ which was only launched in Europe in October in bare time to compete for the much-coveted European Car of the Year 2003 award - which it won, beating off no fewer than 30 new models. It has also achieved a top rating of Five Stars in the most recent Euro NCAP crash tests; the first car in its class to have done so.

It all justifies Renault’s huge leap of faith in introducing such a radical new design to what is Europe’s best-selling car segment5.

This headturner is available in both 3-door Sport Coupe and a five-door Hatch, both of which look equally good.

To most observers though, it is the unusal shape of the car’s rear end that has set tongues wagging. Everyone has a take on the futuristic look. You either love it, hate it, or feel well, maybe it will grow on you.

The car certainly grew on me during the short test drive up the scenic route from Killarney to Moll’s Gap and on to Kenmare after its launch to motoring journalists here. So much so I opted to drive it all the way back to Dublin rather than have it ferried back to Renault HQ on the back of a transporter. A while longer to become better acquainted.

The love affair blossomed as we travelled up through the country on roads that took in major towns and small villages. A good, varied mix to test the road worthiness of any car.

It was the total quietness of the engine and the comfort of the cabin that impressed most. And of course the great driving position which leaves you feeling in total control.

Astonishingly, no road noise came through at all. This lack of engine sound became even more apparent when stuck at traffic lights in Listowel. I wondered if the blessed thing had cut out. But no. It’s just engineered that way for ultimate passenger comfort.

There was plenty of poke from the engine which was still quiet even when revved up. We quickly learned there was no need to be continually changing up and down gears as the engine just picks itself up. It even picks up climing a moderate hill in top gear.

Up there too was the 39.1mpg we achieved driving the 1.4-litre petrol version taking the long ‘scenic’ route home. Expect to better this substantially after a new engine has been run-in.

And yes, size does matter. My 6ft 2ins travelling companion was mesmirised by the amount of head and leg room available and the huge comfort of the seats which, besides being sublimely supportive, also come with a little give in them. Seat backs can be adjusted by a handy adjuster lever placed just under the front seats - much easier than reaching behind for a knob or lever to do the job.

Megane II offers the largest standard safety equipment range in its sector including six airbags, ABS with EBD and EBA emergency brake assist, and three-point seatbelts on all five seats. Security is looked after with deadlocking, engine immobiliser and RAID Renault Anti-Intruder Device as standard.

Like the award-winning Laguna and the VelSatis, the New Megane uses the high tech Renault Card for vehicle locking and ignition. Simply insert the card into the dashboard, press the starter button to ignite the engine, and away you go.

Other goodies include automatic headlamps and automatic windscreen wipers; the ‘See me home’ function which allows headlamps to remain on after the car is locked to light the way to your front door in the dark; the F1-style integrated fuel filler cap; the unusual cockpit style handbrake (It’s great. Your hand just falls to it) and all the information given on the trip computer.

But neither of us much favoured the use of red instrument lighting at night which can be a bit glary and hard to read. They looked so much better in daylight with white figures against a darker background.

Other impressive features include the well positioned arm rests on the doors which are set at exactly the right level for comfort and their integrated cubbies. And the big area under the main arm rest will even hold your CDs if you don’t want to store them in the big deep glove compartment or in door bins.

And a surprise! There are also easily accessible storage areas hidden under the front floor mats.

The Megane is currently only here with a 1.4-litre petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel. Prices start from E19,000.

Go take the scenic route home like we did. Perhaps you’ll discover a few surprises of your own!