The term “coupé” originally referred to a closed 2-door, 2-seater vehicle. The term “coupé de ville” was used for vehicles open at the front and closed at the back.

In the 1930s, keeping pace with changing lifestyles and technologies, the coupé became a small two-door model with a quality finish and feisty engine.

In the post-world war 2 period, priority was given to rebuilding and to commercial vehicles. This was the heyday of the “1,000 kg” van, ideal for shopkeepers. It was only in 1957, with the return of prosperity, that Renault once more began to dream of speed and more “frivolous” projects. That year, the brand launched Floride, a new coupé and cabriolet, based on the celebrated Dauphine. Sold under the name Caravelle on the US market, this eminently French coupé caused a major stir at the New York Motor Show in 1959. Praised by Brigitte Bardot in person, Caravelle was a runaway success.

The first version of Floride was designed by the celebrated Italian coachbuilder Ghia. Tasked with designing the vehicle, Italy’s Pietro Frua came up with a sensational design: slender, curving body lines, timeless elegance… Floride looked so good that a third version – a convertible – was launched alongside the cabriolet and coupé. It was a little rocket with an engine to make its rivals turn pale with envy: the 4-cylinder Ventoux carried over from Dauphine developed 40 hp. An engine delivering a fast - very fast - ride.

In 1968, after an 11-year career and a number of upgrades, Renault’s elegant coupé withdrew from the market, after notching up sales of no fewer than 117,113 units!

In the 1990s, the keywords were engine quality, low consumption and improved environmental protection. In 1995, Renault responded with Mégane Coupé, a vehicle featuring a direct-injection diesel engine. An elegant two-seater that built a reputation for both sporting performance and low fuel consumption.

It was followed in 2003 by Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet, with its sensational folding panoramic roof. In just 22 seconds, the closed coupé peels off its roof to become an alluring, open cabriolet. A nod to the legendary Floride. Sexy and safe, this model obtained the top score of 5 stars in EuroNCAP tests.

The story continued in 2008 with the arrival of Laguna Coupé, a sporty and elegant two-door vehicle. No wonder it was ravealed at the Cannes Film Festival! New Mégane Coupé made its debut shortly afterwards. A trailblazing model featuring a sporty chassis and truly dynamic lines.

A real feast for the eyes and senses... while waiting the next Renault two-door stars!