Lighter, leaner and looking very modern, the fourth generation Renault Clio is re-inventing the brand’s best selling hatchback.
Over 11.5M Clio models have been sold since it was introduced in 1990 and the newest version from the styling studio headed by Laurens van den Acker, Senior Vice-President, Corporate Design is the first to embody the DeZir concept car’s styling cues including a bigger bonnet badge.
That sits on a completely new, flowing body style with wide, low stance, wrap-around light clusters using the latest LED systems and chromed detailing, while inside is a sweeping but simple fascia including sophisticated multi-media systems and options.
There is a single five-door bodystyle which is 100KG lighter than the predecessor and comes with a choice of smaller engines that have given rise to fuel consumption savings of up to 20 percent over their predecessors.
Two new engines debut. 0.9 TCe 90 and 1.5 dCi 90 – plus ‘ECO’ variants of both. ECO variant of latter provides class-leading 88.3 mpg and only 83 g/km CO2. TCe 90 in ECO guise offers impressive 65.7 mpg and 99 g/km CO2
Stop&Start standard on TCe 90 and dCi 90. Driver activated ECO mode to improve fuel economy by between 10-15% (standard on Dynamique MediaNav and above)
These figures are comparable with those of significantly more expensive hybrid cars.
Under the bonnet and skin of the new Clio is a very refined suspension, steering and braking system and it has already been praised for its five-star EuroNCAP safety standards.
It is worth mentioning that the Media Nav system comes with a seven-inch (18cm) touchscreen display and incorporates a 4×20-Watt audio system complete with the Bass Reflex System, plus comprehensive connectivity (Bluetooth®, USB, jack) which allows occupants to enjoy music stored on portable devices.
There are four trim levels: Expression, Expression+, Dynamique MediaNav and Dynamique S MediaNav. Core seller likely to be Dynamique MediaNav expected to account for 60pc of UK registrations.
New GT Line with TCe 120 EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) and Clio RenaultSport models will follow this year. The launch range is priced £10,595 to £16,095.
Standard equipment includes: driver/passenger/side and curtain airbags, Bass Reflex speaker system, electric front windows and door mirrors, Bluetooth radio with USB port and jack socket, ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and ETC (Electronic Traction Control), folding front passenger seat, Hill Start Assist, keyless entry and ignition, 7” touchscreen MediaNav infotainment system with integrated navigation (Dynamique MediaNav and above)
Wide range of new options from classes above, such as: panoramic fixed glass sunroof, rear parking camera, R-Link system including apps. Extensive range of personalisation touches inside and out.
Clio UK product manager Lianne Edgar said the decision to introduce only a five-door version in Britain reflected the fact that just 30pc of registrations in the Clio sector were for three-door models, and it was anticipated the 900cc petrol models will be the better sellers.
“In this sector the sports touring or estate sector is also declining and we have the Captur cross-over coming to build on the Clio’s success,” she added. “The decision to offer so many options and packs also reflects the take-up of these across our range and they reflect our customers liking for advanced and sophisticated entertainment and media systems.”
There has been a surprisingly high take-up of the coloured fascia and upholstery offered on some models as buyers seek to personalise their new Clio.
An increasing number of buyers are also choosing the Renault finance and personal contract plans.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Anyone familiar with Clio 3 will immediately appreciate the improved refinement and sophistication of the Clio 4.
The doors have a wider opening angle for better access, the seats are more comfortable and supporting and the ride is immensely improved.
Handling is sharper, grip good and the new Clio really soaks up bumps you can hear passing underneath the car.
The wider footprint of the latest Clio improves stability and makes it better handling and more predictable and it creates more room inside, particularly in the back.
The newest Renault Clio is particularly impressive with the latest sub-900cc engine as tested in a Dynamique MediaNav TCe 90 Eco.
Despite its three-cylinder configuration it’s surprisingly smooth even when pushed and its gearchanges are smooth and help make the most of the available performance. We averaged 42.7mpg over country roads.
The four-cylinder 1.4 diesel pushed out the same absolute power and with the use of Stop&Start it eased economy to 55.7mpg on test. This has good mid-range pulling power and is possibly better suited to carrying more people or loads.
The diesel did not seem to ride as smoothly as the smaller petrol stablemate and this may have been due to different wheels and tyres as well as spring rates to cope with the additional frontal weight.
VERDICT
The new Clio is a real step forward for the brand and will increase competition in the five-door hatchback sector in the UK and is even good enough to win over buyers from the class above if they don’t want to sacrifice refinement and room.
