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
