Renault should be pleased; new Clio is a corker!

Growing from a lineage that commenced with the original Renault 5, reports Iain Robertson, the latest Clio can be said to have ‘come of age’ in its latest iteration, which is smaller but bigger, more defined but softer, yet totally right for purpose.

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.


MSG Summary

It is clear that Renault has tried very hard and succeeded in producing an incredibly competent small hatchback. Roomy, luxurious and impeccably detailed, it is sure to command strong sales for Clio’s future.

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