Car Buyers UK reviews the 4th Generation Clio

We just love the Renault Clio and with the 4th generation just launched in Europe, we share this review originally posted on http://www.carbuyer.co.uk/reviews/renault/clio/hatchback/review

"The fourth-generation Clio is bigger and more stylish than ever, as well as being one of the most affordable superminis to buy and run – if not the best to drive."

The Renault Clio is one of the more attractive superminis on sale, backed up by a range of efficient diesel and petrol engines, good refinement and comfort and a host of personalisation options. Rivals are plentiful and include the solid and classy Volkswagen Polo, the dependable Vauxhall Corsa and the best-selling Ford Fiesta

Unlike most of its competitors, the Clio is available as a five-door only, although thanks to clever styling, it could pass as a three-door. There's a Clio for everyone, from the person who just wants an urban runaround to the sports-car driver seeking an adrenaline rush.

Thanks to some glossy black plastic trim, the interior looks quite fresh and classy, while the Dynamique Nav version has a large tablet-style touchscreen display. However, it's all a bit rattly and there are some cheap plastics lower down in the cabin.

There's more than enough space in the front of the Clio, but rear-seat passengers will feel short-changed. There's not much space back there, a situation made worse by the sloping roofline and high-set seats. On the plus side, the Clio's boot is surprisingly large for a supermini, and easy to load.

The Clio comes in five trim levels, ranging from Play (replacing Expression+ trim) to GT Line Nav. We like the mid-range Dynamique Nav, which has alloy wheels, sat nav, a seven-inch touchscreen - now with a clearer, more sensitive screen - and air-conditioning as standard.

Reliability has never been the Clio's strong point, but indications are that the current model is a big improvement on its predecessors in this respect. Its safety credentials are very impressive. Euro NCAP awarded the car five stars for crash-worthiness, while standard equipment includes electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes and emergency braking assistance. [End of Review]

As South Africans we are lucky to have many Renault approved dealerships across the country, eg. Group 1 Renault in Stellenbosch, one of the best Renault Western Cape dealers on the block.

Originally posted on Joie de Vivre Vehicles

Renault could Change the Face of F1 Racing

Renault has always prided itself in its pedigreed racing heritage, but this has been taken one step further at the end of September 2015 with the well-established automotive manufacturer signing a letter of intent to purchase a controlling stake in Lotus, thereby creating a brand new Formula 1 team for 2016.

Talks with Renault Began at the Beginning of the Year

For over 7 months Renault have been in talks to buy Lotus. During this time however the Lotus team’s financial position has become precarious without a deal in place. But thanks to Renault this is all about to change, as a statement made on Monday the 28th of September says that the "first step towards the project of a Renault Formula 1 Team" has been taken.

Renault looks to Extend its Love Affair with Racing

Up until now Renault has had an engine partnership with Red Bull, but the move to buy the Lotus team not only signifies the end of this deal, but will also help ensure that Renault’s 38-year involvement in F1 is extended indefinitely.

An Established Renault History in F1

Racing fans will probably already know this, but Renault previously ran their own F1 team from 1977-85 and then again from 2002 to 2010. During this time they managed to win both the drivers' and constructors' championships not once, but twice in 2005 and 2006. In 2010 Renault sold the majority of shares in its F1 team, which became Lotus Renault and then Lotus F1. This means that there is already an established working relationship between the two parties, which bodes well for the future of Team Lotus, Renault Racing and Motor Racing in general.

As originally posted on: http://www.group1renault.co.za/

Copy and Images supplied by: Group 1 Renault