Renault launched the fifth-generation Clio in 2019, though it only reached SA in 2022.
At first glance, the new model doesn't look remarkably different from the previous model, but there are plenty of new features to write home about and to set it apart to the keen eye, like the broader shoulders, lower roofline, and more sculpted lines. The radiator grille is also raised and broader, while the signature C-shaped LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) and Headlights add to its more assertive look.
And while it might not be chalk and cheese to the average consumer, it's because Renault says it's they've taken a winning formula and just refined it to create an even better little city car than before.
Same, same but different
In the week when Volkswagen has launched a brand new Polo range, with the GTI model being its range-topper, news that there'll be no Clio R.S model is a very bitter pill to swallow. But even more interesting is that A Life nomenclature also denotes Renault's entry-level model, much like VW.
It's crazy to think the Clio for sale is already more than three-decades-old, and the name still stirs some kind of excitement when hearing it. Despite the first Clio only arriving in SA in the year 2000, with the second generation model, it's one of those cars that get better with age, constantly evolving with the times to keep up with modern trends and needs.
Since its local introduction, more than 76 000 models have been sold here, while more than 34 800 of those were from the fourth generation from 2013. While the styling is not radically different to the previous model, it's inside where there have been significant upgrades. And, it's really this car's success story as the brand has kept its DNA by taking something from every generation before it, especially its robust design, which has set the tone for the brand's most recent models.
New premium materials are evident, along with better build quality and higher-spec equipment. The cabin is also more driver-orientated for more comfort and convenience, and the car comes in six body colours. There's a new 9.3-inch Easy Link infotainment touchscreen on the tech front, multi-sense driving modes, park distance control, and cruise control. Safety features include Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Auto High Beam Control (HBC).
It has a lot to go up against, namely the brand new VW Polo, but also the Hyundai i20, Mazda 2, Ford Fiesta, and the Kia Rio - all with competitive pricing too, and all outstanding cars. And this is where the Clio will have to fight really hard to make its mark in the local line-up with such compelling options on offer to South Africans. Perhaps in recent years, the Clio had an advantage for being such a forward-thinking and dynamic package, but everyone else has come to the party, all having their hands raised up high, saying, 'Pick me, pick me.
So what's it like to drive?
Under the bonnet is a brand 3-cylinder 1.0-litre TCe 100 (turbo) petrol engine delivering 74kW and 160Nm. Power figures see an improvement of 8kW and 20Nm compared to the Clio IV, with CO2 emissions of 132g/100km. Renault also says fuel consumption has been reduced by 10%, with a claimed figure of 5.7 litres/100km in a combined fuel cycle.
At first, you'd think the new Clio is a tad bit underwhelming, and you're probably more than likely to stall a couple of times with the manual transmission. Don't try putting your foot flat in the corner too, or you'll be disappointed, just like you'll be slumped going up a hill.
But here's the thing about the new Clio; driving it is like going on a first date - you can't possibly know everything about your new love interest at first glance; you need to take some time and get to know them better. The same applies here, and once you take the time to play with the throttle, it's hardly mundane at all.
The 1.0-litre engine is feisty, but you have to know how to lure that out. Power figures are only 74kW at 2500rpm. But you need to hit it at the sweet spot of 5000rpm and keep it in that power band to get the most out of this little hot hatch, and then it really comes out of its shell and holds its own on sweeping S-bends in any of the Cape's delectable mountain passes to hold its own.
Renault has hit the nail on the head with its smaller city cars like the Kwid, Kiger, and Triber, all selling really well for the brand and bringing in hundreds of sales numbers every month, consistently bringing in a tally of over 2000 units. It will be interesting to see if the Clio could move that many units too. If it does, Renault will make a killing and bump its ranking up from the fifth place in the automaker standings and market share.
.
.
.
Review compiled by https://www.news24.com/wheels/
