Renault Clio

CLIO EMBODIES RENAULT’S ACCLAIMED REPUTATION

The fourth generation Renault's Clio returned its maker to credibility in the supermini sector. In this improved guise, its appeal is kept current. Jonathan Crouch explains why

Ten Second Review

It's called 'New Clio' but this Renault supermini is actually a smarter slightly more sophisticated version of the existing MK4 model. Highlights include smart new full-LED headlights, a higher-quality interior and extra infotainment options. Plus, as before, there's one of the widest powertrain line-ups in the segment.

Background

In some respects, the fourth generation Clio was one of the cars that saved Renault. It arrived in 2013 at a time when the brand's gamble on all-electric car development was failing. Billions of euros had been poured into new battery-powered models that customers simply weren't buying. Dealers needed a characterful, class-competitive product that would sell in decent numbers. This was it.

The styling offered a curvy sense of esprit that buyers really liked, hence Renault's reluctance to change it too much for this revised version, though this updated model does gain a smarter LED-lit front end that brings its look into line with the brand's latest Megane family hatch. That's the most obvious in a whole stream of detail revisions that aim to keep this car amongst the top three players in the supermini segment.

Driving Experience

The dynamic recipe on offer here hasn't much changed. This MK4 model proved that you didn't necessarily have to stretch to a Renaultsport Clio to get a version of this car that might be good to drive. As ever, it isn't quite as taut as a rival Fiesta, but that's OK: if you're like us, you instinctively expect French cars to roll a little more - almost want them to for the payoff of silken low speed ride. Which is delivered here in a way that no rival can better. Just one of the many reasons you'd like to drive this Clio around town. The others? Well-weighted steering that facilitates a tight 10.6m turning circle. And torquey engines you don't have to row around with the gear lever.

There isn't much change here, though it is now possible to order the most powerful petrol and diesel units - respectively the TCe 120 and the dCi 110 variants - with manual transmission as well as an automatic. Most Clio buyers though, will continue to choose either the volume dCi 90 diesel or the 0.9-litre three cylinder TCe petrol unit. There's also a base 1.2-litre 75bhp petrol powerplant. At the top of the range, the Renaultsport Clio 200 hot hatch continues but, as before, must be ordered with an automatic EDC ('Efficient Dual Clutch') automatic transmission that some don't want.

Design and Build

'Simple, sensuous and warm' were the three design keywords used to create the original version of this MK4 model and that concept has been carried forward into its updated replacement. This facelifted version gets a smarter nose, with an eye-catching full-LED lighting signature, including C-shaped daytime running lights in the case of certain versions. At the front, the grille which houses the Renault diamond has been redesigned, as has the lower part of the grille which is wider to add a more modern feel to the front end. At the rear, the skirt has been redesigned too. Inside, 'New Clio' benefits from the use of finishing materials previously reserved for Renault's higher-end models. All the upholsteries used certainly feel more up-market and special attention has been paid to the tactile and visual quality of the plastics' grain-effect finish.

Otherwise, things are much as before. Since there's still no three-door model, it's just as well that the five-door does a good impression of one, coupe-like styling emphasised by hidden rear door handles. So visually and practically, you get the best of both worlds.

Market and Model

Prices haven't changed much, sitting in the usual £11,000 to £22,000 bracket typical for Fiesta-sized superminis. Whichever mainstream five-door Clio you choose, there are kit items included that will cost you more on many rivals. Virtually all Clios get alloy wheels, air conditioning and front foglights. And absolutely all of them get daytime running lights, cruise control with a speed limiter, a trip computer, a height-adjustable driver's seat, power front windows and mirrors, Bluetooth 'phone compatibility, a decent quality USB-compatible CD stereo with punchy Renault 'Bass Reflex' speakers and fingertip control, plus Hill Start Assist to stop you from drifting backwards on uphill junctions.

To provide customers with a range of options, the 'New Clio' comes with three different connected multimedia systems, namely Media Nav Evolution, Renault R-Link Evolution and the new, smart R&GO system which is available on entry trim levels. This is also the first B-segment Renault to be available with a BOSE audio system. In addition to its reverse parking sensor, and depending on the version, this Clio offers a front parking sensor and a reverse parking camera. Available for higher-end versions, Handsfree Parking allows the driver to fully delegate the completion of parking manoeuvres. Four new body colours have been added and there's a more extensive personalisation programme.

Cost of Ownership

Renault has made a firm commitment to driving down the cost of motoring and the Clio continues to demonstrate some impressive economy and emissions figures. In fact, for more than half the range, there'll be no annual road tax to pay thanks to the way that sub-100g/km CO2 emissions figures grant exemption.

Take the dCi 90 variant many will want. It manages 85.6mpg on the combined cycle and 85g/km of CO2. Go for the 1.2 TCe 90 variant and those figures fall to 61.4mpg and 104g/km, though that's still pretty good for a three cylinder petrol model. Even the automatic Renaultsport Clio 200 hot hatch doesn't do too badly, returning 47.9mpg and 133g/km.

Summary

So, with this 'New Clio', it looks like Renault has maintained its position amongst the class leaders in the supermini segment. Let's leave the final words to Renault boss Carlos Ghosn: 'there's nothing wrong with any car company that good cars won't fix'. He's absolutely right. And so is this Clio.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

CAR: Renault Clio range

PRICES: £11,915- £22,425

INSURANCE GROUPS: 3E-28E

CO2 EMISSIONS: 83-135g/km

PERFORMANCE: [1.5 dCi 90] 0-62mph 11.9s / Max Speed 112mph

FUEL CONSUMPTION: [1.5 dCi 90] 85.6 mpg (combined)

STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: ESP, ABS with EBA, six airbags

WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height mm 4063/1732/1448mm

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