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