The fourth generation of Renault Clio is a declaration of French sensuality and good taste.
Besides the modern design that is radically changed from the previous generation,
Clio keeps the good stuff inherited from the family, such as some engines.
So we face a car where the modern shakes hands with the traditional in a very
elegant way.
The car has a very fresh design. Renault finally managed to make a very big step
towards new design principles. Clio has four doors, coupe shape and pronounced hips.
At the same time, it has very well defined proportions and the design lines give some
interesting shadows on the body, especially with this paint.
To make sure they will not fail with Clio, Renault guys have not been stingy when it
comes to technology. The test drive version is Dynamique and includes in the standard
equipment the Media NAV tablet, 16 inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running light (DRL),
front power windows and center armrest for the driver and the passenger.
Six airbags are standard, and the 5-stars rating at Euro NCAP are here to confirm that
the money spent on this car are not only for the looks and for the big Media NAV screen,
without CD, but also for safety. So Clio is both well equipped and safe.
I have a plus for steering system, which has been completely redesigned and now offers
some more natural reactions than the older model. It is not a perfect steering, but it is
much, much better.
Of course, I have also found some shortcomings. For example, the tailgate
squeaks when the the body is torsioned, and on the streets paved with cubic stone you
realize that the assembly could have been better than it actually is.
But the most disturbing detail is linked to the automatic air conditioning. Even without
disabling the compressor from the button, it becomes inactive anyway once the cabin has
reached the desired temperature. And this means that in maximum 30 seconds you have
a humidity smell inside the car, and the compressor still does not start until the moist
air becomes warm as well.
As a conclusion, it's impossible to have a decent thermal comfort in the summer time,
with new Clio’s automatic air conditioning. At least it's optional - 350 Euro - and you will
definitely make a better choice if you keep the manual adjustment air conditioning that is
fitted as standard.
The car in the video has the well known 1.5 dCi diesel engine with 90 PS/HP. Clio with this
engine is a very nice car. The engine has decent power resources and urban
consumption will not pass above 6.5 l/100 km. In addition, the reliability of this engine is
proven and perhaps it is one of the best small capacity turbo diesel engines on the market.
Clio 1.5 dCi of 90 PS/HP reaches 100km/h in 11.7 seconds.
Along with a firmer steering, the engine gives the car a dynamic ride, but softened by the
slightly soft suspension.
With a list price of about 15,000 Euros with VAT for the tested version, Clio IV has
tradition and reliability on his side, garnished with modern technology and excellent design.
Probably it is not the best B class model on market, but definitely it is a car that deserves
to be on the city car buyer's short list.