Renault Clio

Ever since Papa and Nicole first graced our TV screens, the Renault Clio has been a good second-hand buy.

The latest model arrived in 2005, and it’s the biggest so far, with a spacious interior that makes it ideal for growing families. On the road, its capable chassis is secure and comfortable, and it has a five-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating, too.

However, the current Clio is a fair bit more expensive than its predecessors, so a second-hand or nearly new one has never made so much sense.

History
The third-generation Clio arrived in August 2005, with a wide variety of engines and a choice of three or five-door models. Under the bonnet, buyers could pick 1.2, 1.4 or 1.6-litre petrol engines, or a 1.5-litre dCi diesel in 68, 86 or 106bhp form. With the firm’s heritage of fast hot hatches, it was no surprise that a Renaultsport Clio 197 followed in May 2006.

The talented 138bhp Dynamique S arrived in October for those after a less frantic experience. Both of these sporty Clios were three-doors only. A new base model was introduced in December 2006, dubbed the Freeway, and the turbocharged 1.2-litre TCE petrol engine arrived last May.

What to look for
THere’s little difference in price or performance between the 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre petrols, but the latter has slightly higher running costs, so think carefully before choosing.

The normally aspirated 1.2-litre struggles for pace, so it’s best avoided. For the ultimate blend of pace and economy, go for the mid-range or top-spec 1.5 dCi units. And although the Dynamique S has ordinary looks, enthusiasts shouldn’t ignore it, as its 138bhp engine makes it a genuinely sporty hatchback.

Optional extras include a speed limiter, headlamps that turn with the steering and keyless entry. The latter allows you to get into the car and start it without having to take the key card out of your pocket. Useful when you are loaded down with shopping!

Alternatives
The combination of practicality and reliability offered by the Honda Jazz is hard to ignore, but it’s pricey, expensive to maintain and the ride is hard. Also on your shortlist should be the first Skoda Fabia, which is cheap to run and good on the road, but smaller. If you value low running costs and reliability, check out the Toyota Yaris, Hyundai Getz or Fiat Panda, all of which are better to own than they are to drive.

Links
Club Clio: www.clubclio.co.uk
ClioSport: www.cliosport.net
Renault UK: www.renault.co.uk
Renault Owners’ Club: www.renaultownersclub.com
Renaultsport: www.renaultsport.co.uk

Verdict

There’s more to the latest Clio than a practical interior and low running costs. Build quality has also taken a step forward, and the current model is more refined than previous generations. As if all that wasn’t enough, the Renault is competitively priced on the second-hand market and comes in a wide variety of trim levels and engine sizes. As a result, there really is a Clio for everyone.

Extra Info

Buyer beware!

• Erratic brake lights can be traced to control switch that’s been fitted upside down
• Air-con isn’t very efficient; even when working properly it struggles to cool the car

Recall history
Oct 2006: Automatic gearbox electronic control unit may malfunction on cars built between March and May 2006.
Apr 2007: The brake light switch can fail on cars built between December 2005 and February 2006.

Driver power 2007 Comment
The Clio finished in 49th place in our top 100 – the sixth highest placing for a supermini on the list, and the best Renault in the survey. This was a much better performance than its predecessor managed – the previous-generation Clio was a disappointing 90th.