I have downed and driven the Megane 1.9RN (Diesel) for three years and up to 95,000 miles. I used it for towing a caravan up to 1300kg as well with absolutely no problems at all.

Brakes: Superb! They work well and the ABS option is a must on this car.
Steering: Very good but as the front tyres wear past 15000 miles from new the balance goes out quickly. Any apparent balance problem will be down to the tyre wear.
Cornering: Excellent. This car corners at speeds that make other cars protest!
Economy: The diesel option is good. Even when driven very hard and at speed 390 miles per tank (40 litres) is what you can expect.
Reliability: 10/10 never a problem in three years excepting door problems. (See below)
Best Value For: Towing power, cornering and road holding ability, braking from speed with safety on bad surfaces including corners, dogged reliability.

Down side: Basic model is poorly fitted out. Without the split rear seat option the use of the extra load space is hampered and awkward to use. The door closing mecanism is poorly made and prone to failure.

I would have this car again but with all the extras.