Renault Clio 2014 Car Auto Review

The Renault Clio hasn't really cut it for a while against rivals like the Ford Fiesta and Peugeot 208. But then the new generation Clio burst through the floodgates of the super-mini market with a completely reworked look. It has slash lines down the flanks to make it look slimmer, a menacing front-end and hidden rear door handles, which make it look like a more attractive three-door. So we like it's styling, but is it worthy elsewhere? The Clio’s interior has a quirky youthful feel about it, with loads of glossy highlights, although there are a few toggles and switches that feel a bit outdated.

Storage is really good though, with numerous cabby holes and shelves. Entry level kit keeps up with the crowd, offering Bluetooth, cruise control and USB compatibility, but unfortunately no air-con. We have the mid-range Dynamic Media-Nav model which comes with a few stylish tweaks like gloss black surrounds on the speakers and steering wheel, grey inserts on the upholstery and, most importantly, a seven-inch touchscreen with sat-nav.

If you splash out and get Renault’s optional R-Link system, you will have the option of connecting to Renault’s app store and downloading applications for your car – one of which can alter the sound of the engine. So, if you want it to sound like… Space in the rear isn’t great, as leg room is very limited – certainly not as comfortable as the Ford Fiesta. Boot size however is baffling due to its sheer size. It offers 300 liters with the seats in place – trumping the Fiesta and Peugeot 208 – and up to 1,146 liters with the seats down – which is bigger than the VW Polo.

There are two petrol and one diesel to choose from. Now, as this is a super-mini, the three-cylinder petrol options are definitely worth checking out, but if low running costs are your aim, then go for the 1.5-liter diesel we are driving. This emits as low as 83g/km of CO2 and, in real world driving, returns an average of around 80mpg. Even though it is incredibly economical, you can still have great fun with its 89bhp and 220Nm of torque, especially in first, second and third gear. The diesel option is quite noisy though, and although it has a rather comfy and supple suspension, it is no great shakes when it comes to fun, as the steering could do with a bit more weight behind it. Although it is responsive and direct. The highlight however has got to be its grip, which is just brilliant.

If you want a bit more va va voom, and you have some extra cash to spare - then go for the Renault-sport Clio. The Clio is by no means perfect, but it definitely has enough about it to make super-mini buyers think twice although you will have to pay a slight premium over the likes of the Fiesta. But would you opt for this chic French alternative?