Renault Clio 2014 Review

We've been punting this cute little number around the streets and highways near home  for the past three months, making irregular visits to the servo and making a big impression on the neighbours. One was so impressed they went out and bought one -- in the pale blue.

Our top of the range black car (about $25 grand) with pale blue highlights including the wheels wouldn't be our choice -- too hot, too difficult to keep clean but Clio is a crackin' good car in the light segment -- different, responsive, well appointed, good looking and practical.

DESIGN AND FEATURES

It's a five door hatchback more in small car dimensions rather than a tiddler size light car. That means it's useable as a family vehicle as well as for singles and couples. The cleverly disguised rear door handles give a coupe look. Interior room is good in the front, OK in the back with headroom an issue for people over 180cm. Boot space is useable and expandable with the rear pew folded.

It gets plenty of kit including satnav, cruise with speed limiter, keyless ignition,  some driver assist features, Bluetooth phone and audio, multi info screen, multi-infotainment options and in the case of the test vehicle-- six mode exhaust sound effect inside the car. Kids love that one.

DRIVING

This car is a style leader inside and out with those striking large headlights and Renault badge front standing out in the crowd. We also like the pumped out rear guards and the Alfa style tail lights. Inside is functional and modern with a new take on the centre console -- like and iPad, and a cluster of chrome rimmed instruments in front of the driver. The chunky wheel has multi-functions but there's still a satellite stalk controller for some functions which we don't like .

In terms of the drive, the Clio TCe120 has a 1.2-litre turbo four cylinder petrol engine with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing that achieves 88kW/190Nm -- plenty for a car this size and weight. Fuel economy is claimed at 5.2-litres/100km on 95 octane but we could only squeeze 6.2 out of in in mixed driving, which is pretty good.

The six speed transmission is a dual clutch Manumatic (auto) providing quick changes and smooth operation . But you have to expect it to roll when you lift off the brake unlike a conventional auto that will transmit some power to the wheels. It can catch you out...
The Clio TCe120 offers a sporty and comfortable drive with flat cornering and strong brakes coupled with responsive acceleration thanks to the turbo engine.

VERDICT

Clio is an impressive new entrant into the segment - a benchmark in some respects.

RANGE

Clio Authentique TCe 90 0.9-litre petrol five-door hatch: from $16,790 (manual)
Clio Expression TCe 90 0.9-litre petrol five-door hatch: from $17,790 (manual)
Clio Expression TCe 120 1.2-litre petrol five-door hatch: from $19,790(automatic)
Clio Dynamique TCe 120 1.2-litre petrol five-door hatch: from $23,290(automatic)

Renault Clio 
Price: from $16,790-$23,290
Capped servicing: 3 years
Service intervals: 12 months/15,000km
Engine: 0.9L turbo 3-cylinder, 66kW/135Nm; 1.2L turbo 4-cylinder, 88kW/190Nm
Transmission: 5-speed manual or 6-speed dual clutch auto, FWD
Thirst: 4.5L/100km (0.9L engine), 5.2L/100km (1.2L engine)
Dimensions: 4.06m (L), 1.73m (W), 1.45m (H)
Weight: 1019kg-1104kg
Spare: Temporary