Driving

Press the starter button and the Clio's 2.0-litre unit only emits a slight exhaust rasp, and the unit itself doesn't sound particularly special. In fact, below 5,000rpm the Renault's powerplant is fairly ordinary, so making the most of the performance available isn't particularly easy. Horsepower peaks at 7,250rpm, while maximum toque of 215Nm comes in at an equally high 5,500rpm. But when pushed to the limit the engine and exhaust sound superb. However, despite this, acceleration isn't superb. A 1,240kg kerbweight doesn't help; while it has more power than the Clio 182, it's slightly slower than the old car. But where the 197 comes into its own is on twisting roads. The chassis is extremely nimble, and the car carries a lot of speed around corners. While the steering is fine, feedback can feel slightly artificial at times, but along with the positive six-speed gearbox, it combines to make a hatch that is happy to be pushed hard. The stiffened suspension banishes body roll, but while the ride is compliant enough to soak up most bumps, the buzzy engine and modest refinement mean long journeys can be tiring.

Marketplace

Renault's pedigree for building storming hot hatches stretches back to the original 5 GT Turbo. So the 197 has a lot to live up to. From the outset, it's obvious the designers have gone for the 'less is more' approach. Crucially though, it's distinctive enough to make it appear different from the standard car. The 197 is powered by the 2.0-litre engine from the previous-generation Clio 182, but despite its name, it actually delivers 194bhp: the 197 refers to power output in PS. The junior hot hatch sector is an active one, with the MINI Cooper S, Ford Fiesta ST, VW Polo GTI and Set Ibiza Cupra all providing competition. But the Clio is the most powerful of the lot; with its higher list price, it is able to also compete with bigger models such as the Golf GTI, Ford Focus ST and Vauxhall Astra VXR too.

Owning

The cabin tweaks are as subtle as those on the outside, and while the interior lacks the individuality of some rivals, it is still stylish. Sporty cues include aluminium pedals, chrome-zinc console, bold figures on the dials and sports seats, which provide excellent support. One of the biggest criticisms of the Clio 182 was the high driving position, but the 197 is spot-on. The steering adjusts for rake and reach, while the pedals are positioned perfectly. This has made a huge difference, not only to comfort but to the whole driving experience - you immediately fee more at home in the car as a result. As for economy, it averaged 24.3mpg in our hands - some way short of the official combined average of 31.7mpg. Retained values aren't bad for a mainstream car though, and equipment levels are very generous. Don't look for a spare wheel though; the venturi-style rear diffuser means there is no room for one.