Insurance Group: 12
MPG: 36.2
CO2: 179
0-62 Mph: 12.2 secs
BHP: 111 BHP
Range: 438 miles
PROS: The automatic gearbox is rare in the Clio range, but this is well suited to the 1.6 litre engine, and the level of equipment means it is a comfortable car to drive with a few luxuries.
CONS: As with any car with an automatic gearbox, the fuel economy is affected, and many people will find that the price will be a big sticking point when looking at this car.
The Clio is a small car that is very good for driving around town, and the steering is light and responsive, but this light steering remains when driving at speed, making it a little skittish. The ride is comfortable and there is plenty of grip meaning that driving the car is generally quite fun once you get used to the deft touch needed with the light steering. The adjustable driving position means that most people should find a comfortable driving stance, and visibility to the front, side and rear is all very good.
One area in which the automatic gearbox has a big impact is in performance, dampening the acceleration of the Clio significantly. Going from 0-62mph is something which takes 12.2 seconds, although the top speed of 116mph is not a problem. These figures combined with the poor fuel efficiency means that the manual is a much more attractive option unless the automatic gearbox is absolutely necessary.
The Renault Clio has been on our roads for many years now, and when it comes to the look of the car the developments have been evolutionary rather than revolutionary. This is no bad thing, with the front end being attractive enough, especially with the addition of interesting foglight mounts. The rear end is also tidy and looks very much like the Clio has done for a long time. Inside the large steering wheel is very nice, and the layout is very good, apart from the preference for small buttons which seems to be a trait of Renault designers.
As the name suggests this version of the Clio is delivered with a TomTom satellite navigation system, and also has Bluetooth connectivity and a CD stereo. Air conditioning and cruise control are included as standard, but one desirable addition is the electric panoramic sunroof, which is on the optional extras list.
Although the Clio is a small car, it is quite practical with reasonable space available in the front, and rear legroom being quite good, although taller people may struggle. The boot space is also good rather than great. Renault have also developed a good reliability record with the Clio, with each generation becoming more dependable.
In terms of the safety of the Clio it has been awarded five stars in the Euro NCAP safety tests, and the range of airbags including a curtain airbag to look after rear passengers is very good. ABS is included as standard, but those looking for traction control and ESP will find they are only optional extras.
The addition of the automatic gearbox does push this version of the Renault Clio up towards the higher prices in the range, and the list price of £14,515 is quite significant. There are cheaper options, but this is generally the best Clio that is equipped with this gearbox.
The running costs on an automatic are also significantly increased, with the 1.6 litre engine delivering fuel efficiency figures comparable with a sporty coupe. The average 36.2mpg is very disappointing, but this blow will be cushioned by the low insurance group. Depreciation can also be a big problem for automatic Clio owners, but the car is delivered with Renault’s impressive three year warranty and roadside breakdown assistance, which is better than that which is on offer from many similar vehicles in this class.
The new-face Renault Clio Expression is one of the most popular super minis in the UK. It is keen on the road and delivers big-car driving experience. It is an all-round car that gives satisfactory...
The Clio is a great little car although this Expression 1.6 VVT 111 Auto model isn't the one to go for. The trim level is a little basic and the performance isn't up to much thanks to the gutless e...
The Renault Clio Expression dCi 88 ECO is a good car and should be extremely cheap to run. It also looks good, both inside and out, although the level of standard equipment is a little basic. If yo...
The Renault Clio still has good reviews and is on par with some of its more popular and expensive rivals. The 1.2 Turbo Dyamique Tom Tom is probably one of the finest Clios around as it’s comfortab...
Those who are looking for a Renault Clio with an automatic gearbox will probably find that this is the best option for them, and there is no doubt that this is a very good car. However, the price ...
You might want to read reviews for other Small Family cars that you can then compare to the Renault Clio. Here are some popular Renault Clio alternatives:
