Renault’s spectacular supermini, the Renault Clio, is as popular as ever. The Clio entered its fourth generation in 2012, with Renault continuing to manufacture the third generation up to this year. So what’s changed in the new Renault Clio? Well, the driving is still pretty smooth and it’s definitely still one of the most affordable superminis on the market. The car’s been going strong since its conception way back in 1990, so Renault has clearly gotten the recipe right with this one – and in today’s Renault Clio review, we’re taking a look inside this famous French oven.
Original image by NRMA Motoring and Services
Design
One of the first things about the new Renault Clio that’s worth a mention is that it’s no longer available as a three-door – now being offered exclusively as a five-door car. Although it isn’t the roomiest of the superminis, there’s still enough head and leg room for four adults to travel in superior comfort – and the 300 litres of boots pace is a nice bonus too. We’ve always considered the Renault Clio sportier than most of its competitors, and this generation is no exception. If you like some style with your substance, the Clio won’t let you down.
Performance
In the standard range, you get to choose from a line-up of four engines: three petrols and a diesel. The 1.5-litre diesel boasts some seriously low emissions and is nicely refined, while even the entry level 1.2-litre petrol gives you 74bhp. The next step up (the 0.9-litre TCe) offers a bit more punch – but in the petrol engine range, it’s with the turbocharged three-cylinder engine that the Renault Clio truly shines. It’s smooth, agile and lovely to drive, even in heavy traffic – and it’s a lot cleaner than the non-turbocharged alternatives.
Features
Depending on what you want, the end of the Clio line is either the Renault Clio Dynamique or the Renault Clio Sport 200 Turbo. The Dynamique adds a whole bunch of technology to the hot little hatch, including a hands-free keycard, sizeable seven-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system, Satnav and air conditioning. The Renault Clio Sport focuses less on the tech side of things and more on drivers looking for a supermini with some extra oomph. The EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) automatic gearbox on this model makes the drive a bit less choppy, and the car will provide 108bhp – not bad at all for a supermini in this price range. Whatever way you decide to go, the Renault Clio comes with the coveted Euro NCAP five-star rating, meaning safety is well and truly accounted for.
Original image by NRMA Motoring and Services
The Renault Clio has something to offer for any type of driver, and it’s no surprise this nippy little beauty is still such a popular choice. If you need some help financing your Renault Clio or just want some help picking the option that’s right for you, look no further. Check out our dedicated Renault finance page to find the funds for your own Renault Clio – or try out our car loan calculator now for an instant quote.
