09/12/2006
The Renault Clio has long been a familiar sight on UK roads, and for good reason. This stylish supermini has evolved through four generations, consistently offering a compelling blend of attractive design, comfortable interiors, and capable driving dynamics. For those considering a used car, the Clio often garners positive owner reviews, particularly for its reliability and overall value. But is it truly a good car? Let's delve deeper into what makes the Clio a perennial favourite in the competitive supermini segment.
Practicality and Style
One of the Clio's most significant strengths, especially for a car in its class, is its surprisingly spacious and comfortable interior. Even taller adults can travel in relative comfort, making it a viable option for families or those who frequently carry passengers. The cabin is thoughtfully designed with ample storage solutions to help keep things organised. You'll find deep door bins perfect for stowing away drinks bottles and personal items, while the front offers two cup holders and a convenient tray with USB ports for charging your devices. An AUX connection is also typically available, allowing you to connect your smartphone to the infotainment system. Boot space is another area where the Clio often outperforms its rivals. Petrol variants typically offer around 391 litres of cargo capacity, while diesel models provide slightly less at 366 litres. The hybrid version, due to the integration of its battery and electric motors, offers a more modest 301 litres. Even with this reduction, the Clio's boot space frequently surpasses that of key competitors like the Ford Fiesta. Renault has also focused on practicality with a low boot lip and a wide opening, simplifying the loading and unloading of luggage.
Engine Options and Fuel Economy
The Renault Clio is renowned for its efficient engine line-up, catering to a variety of driving needs and preferences. You'll commonly find small, turbocharged petrol engines that offer a good balance of performance and economy. For instance, a 1.0-litre, 98bhp engine typically achieves around 54.3mpg and can accelerate from 0-62mph in approximately 11 seconds. A slightly less powerful 70bhp 1.0-litre petrol engine offers similar fuel economy (around 52.3mpg) but takes closer to 16 seconds to reach 62mph. For those seeking a bit more zest, a 1.3-litre petrol engine, producing around 128bhp, can achieve 0-62mph in a brisk 8.7 seconds, while still returning a respectable 49.6mpg. For drivers who cover significant mileage, particularly on motorways, the diesel engine options are often a compelling choice. The 1.5-litre diesel, with an output of 83bhp, is a standout performer in terms of fuel efficiency, often achieving figures as high as 67.2mpg. The introduction of hybrid technology has further enhanced the Clio's appeal. The 1.6-litre E-Tech Hybrid, paired with electric motors and a 1.2kWh battery, provides instant torque for brisk acceleration, delivering a combined 138bhp and completing the 0-62mph sprint in 9.6 seconds. This powertrain also boasts an impressive official fuel economy of around 64.2mpg. Here's a look at the official fuel economy figures for different generations:
| Generation | Engine | Official NEDC/WLTP MPG | 0-62mph (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 - 2013 | 1.2 | 47.9 mpg | - |
| 1.2 16V | 47.9–48.7 mpg | - | |
| 1.2 TCe | 47.9–52.3 mpg | - | |
| 1.5 dCi 88 | 70.6–78.4 mpg | - | |
| 2013 - 2019 | 0.9 TCe | 56.5–67.3 mpg | - |
| 1.2 TCe 120 | 53.3 mpg | - | |
| 1.5 dCi 110 | 80.7 mpg | - | |
| 1.5 dCi 90 | 70.6–88.3 mpg | - | |
| 2019 - onwards | 1.0 SCe 65 | 54.3 mpg | 15.2 secs |
| 1.0 SCe 75 | 52.3 mpg | 15.1 secs | |
| 1.0 TCE 100 | 54.3 mpg | 11.8 secs | |
| 1.0 TCE 90 | 49.6–54.4 mpg | 11.8 secs | |
| 1.3 TCE | 49.6 mpg | 8.7 secs | |
| 1.5 dCi | 67.2 mpg | 14.3 secs | |
| 1.6 E-Tech Hybrid | 64.2 mpg | 9.6 secs |
Note: Official MPG figures can vary depending on driving conditions, vehicle maintenance, and specific trim levels.
Running Costs and Road Tax
When considering the overall cost of ownership for a used Renault Clio, running costs are an important factor. Generally, used Clios fall into insurance groups ranging from 10 to 18, making them a relatively affordable option for many drivers. Higher specification models, especially those with hybrid powertrains, may occupy the upper end of this range. In terms of road tax, the standard UK car tax rate is currently £180 per year. It's important to note that this rate can be influenced by a car's emission levels. For used Renault Clios, you can typically expect the road tax to be in the region of £170 to £180, depending on the specific engine and its associated CO2 emissions. Always check the specific tax band for the vehicle you are interested in.
Driving Experience and Handling
The Renault Clio is designed to offer a pleasant and engaging driving experience. The steering is responsive, and the car generally provides a good level of grip, contributing to a feeling of confidence behind the wheel. The suspension is tuned to deliver a smooth ride, effectively absorbing imperfections in the road surface, which enhances overall comfort, particularly on longer journeys. While the smaller petrol engines are focused on efficiency rather than outright speed, they provide adequate performance for daily commuting and city driving. The Clio holds its own against strong rivals like the Ford Fiesta in terms of handling prowess, offering a well-balanced and enjoyable drive.
Safety Features
Safety is a key consideration for any car purchase, and the Renault Clio has consistently performed well in safety assessments. The Clio has achieved a full five-star rating from Euro NCAP, reflecting its robust safety structure and the comprehensive suite of safety features available. Depending on the trim level and model year, you can expect features such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition, all designed to assist the driver and enhance safety on the road. For families, the rear seats are equipped with ISOFIX mounting points, ensuring the secure installation of child seats. The Clio has historically scored highly in adult and child occupant safety tests, often achieving scores in the high 90s for adult safety and the high 80s for child safety.
Trim Levels and Features
The Renault Clio has been offered in a variety of trim levels over its generations, each offering a different blend of features and styling. Here's a general overview of some popular trims: * Expression: Often the entry-level trim, providing essential features like keyless entry, push-button start, LED daytime running lights, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, and electric door mirrors. It’s designed to be well-equipped for everyday use. * Expression+: Builds upon the Expression trim by typically adding manual air conditioning and 16-inch alloy wheels. * Play: As a base trim for newer generations, it usually includes air conditioning, cruise control, electric heated mirrors, and sometimes satellite navigation. A rear spoiler often adds a touch of sporty styling. * Dynamique MediaNav: This trim often features 16-inch alloy wheels, an enhanced audio system (sometimes with Renault's Bass Reflex Sound system), a hands-free key card, and satellite navigation. Additional conveniences can include a leather steering wheel, automatic lights, and wipers. * Dynamique S MediaNav: Stepping up, this trim might offer larger 17-inch alloy wheels and a more premium look with features like body-coloured rear parking sensors and automatic climate control. * Iconic 25: This trim level often introduces aesthetic enhancements such as part-leather upholstered and heated seats, tinted rear windows, and distinctive decals. * RS Line: Focused on a sportier driving experience, this trim usually includes upgraded upholstery, larger alloy wheels (often 17-inch), and sportier styling cues. It also typically features cruise control and a larger touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity. * SE Edition: This trim often bundles popular features like cruise control, speed limiter, satellite navigation, front and rear parking sensors, and a rear camera. Driver assistance systems like lane departure warning and lane keep assist are also common. * GT Line Nav: Combining practicality and sporty styling, this trim usually features a glossy-black centre console, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment display with smartphone connectivity, and 17-inch alloy wheels with sporty body kit elements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are Renault Clios generally reliable?Yes, used Renault Clios generally receive positive owner reviews for their reliability. While individual experiences can vary, the Clio has a reputation for being a dependable and well-built car, especially in its more recent generations. Q2: What is the typical fuel economy of a Renault Clio?Official figures suggest that the Renault Clio's fuel economy ranges between 53mpg and 67mpg, depending on the engine choice and generation. Diesel engines typically offer the highest MPG, while hybrid models also provide excellent efficiency. Q3: Is the Renault Clio a good car for city driving?Absolutely. Its compact size, comfortable ride, responsive handling, and typically good fuel economy make the Renault Clio an excellent choice for navigating urban environments and city driving. Q4: What are the main rivals to the Renault Clio?The Renault Clio competes in a crowded segment and its main rivals include the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, SEAT Ibiza, and Peugeot 208. Q5: Is the Renault Clio expensive to insure?Most used Renault Clios fall into lower to mid-range insurance groups (10-18), making them generally affordable to insure. However, this can vary based on the specific model, engine, trim level, and your personal insurance profile. In conclusion, the Renault Clio stands out as a strong contender in the supermini market. Its combination of style, practicality, efficient engines, and a commitment to safety makes it a compelling choice for a wide range of drivers. Whether you're looking for an economical city car or a comfortable companion for longer journeys, a used Renault Clio is certainly worth serious consideration.
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