The truth is, you have to look twice to play ‘Spot the Difference’. The first giveaway lies in the new age Renault daytime running lamps’ signature, which features the C-shaped motif. However, within a familiar outline, one that improved dramatically with the outgoing model, the evolution of Clio has resulted in a shorter, lower but wider machine. Peer inside and the judicious nip-and-tuck has resulted in significantly greater cabin space.
In fact, my focus was spent almost entirely on the interior. It is so beautifully assembled and consists of such a tactile and agreeable blend of soft-touch surfaces that you wonder why it has taken Renault so long to reach this point. The immediate impression imparted is one of top quality, notable for the first-class fit and finish of every trim fillet and moulding.
However, it is not just for show, as the revised seating is markedly more supportive and comfortable. A full range of adjustability of both seat and steering column creates a perfect driving position for all occupants. Ensconced in the driver’s seat, the orientation of switchgear and the (optional) 9.3-inch portrait touchscreen is so perfect that you get the feeling Renault’s mojo is buzzing like seldom before. First-rate levels of connectivity and switchable driver safety aids support a comprehensive package, which culminates in a class leading boot capacity of 391-litres. Earlier this year, I was incredibly impressed by the latest Audi A1; the new Clio has exceeded that quality with human warmth and user-friendliness. It is confident and thoughtful.
The range of petrol engines includes both naturally aspirated (74bhp) and turbocharged 1.0-litre (99bhp) triples, as well as a 1.3-litre (128bhp) four-cylinder that fulfils a sportier edge. The 1.5-litre turbodiesel remains in much modified form. The base unit is breathless but okay for city motoring. Personally, I still like the dCi unit, with its lovely trough of mid-range verve, but the midfield 99bhp turbo-petrol version is sure to be the most popular choice, even though its snickety-snick 5-speed manual gearbox needs to be worked hard to give of its best (0-60mph in 11.4s; top speed 116mph; 64.2mpg; 100g/km CO2).
While I was eminently happy with Clio’s on-road manners, I found it a little harder to come to terms with the electronic power steering. Fine in a straight-ahead position, the turn-in to bends lacks crispness, despite the intention provided by its higher gearing. To begin with, I felt that the fault may have lain with tyre pressures but they were correct; which suggests that the geometry may need further work. Body roll is well-suppressed but the lack of precision at the front-end does blunt Clio’s performance potential. Having said that, the new car is a refined and easy cruiser, its ride quality being among the finest in the class.