Three decades since the iconic French supermini’s introduction, the eagerly-anticipated fifth-generation version of the Renault Clio has taken to British roads.
Since it first arrived back in 1990, the automotive icon has gone on to become the top-selling French car in the world, notching up more than 15 million sales in the process.
Revealed at this year’s Geneva International Motor Show, the new car is wider, sleeker, more hi-tech and more upmarket than its predecessor, while at the same time boasting more space for both passengers and luggage.
But it’s how the latest Clio drives and handles which impresses most, with the new car both agile and very refined on the road.
We tested the 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbo-charged 100bhp in Iconic trim at £16,295 - one Renault expects to the biggest seller.
As soon as you hit the road you can see why it’s expected to be the most popular because, despite its diminutive engine, it punches well above its weight and never feels lacking.
In fact, it exhibited quite sporty characteristics when it came to handling, and its suspension set-up coped with the worst British roads have to offer in handsome fashion.
On the road the new Clio is quiet and refined, with work done to reduce noise and vibration, and the car is far more civilised whether out on motorways or trundling through heavy city traffic.
Performance figures are 0 to 62 in 11.8 seconds, a top speed of 116mph and official fuel economy is 54.3mpg with emissions of 99g/km.
There’s plenty of tech on offer, even as standard - entry Play models do without touchscreen infotainment but get DAB radio, cruise control with speed limiter, remote central locking, auto-folding mirrors and a host of active safety features including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist and traffic sign recognition.
Iconic trim brings a seven-inch infotainment screen and an uprated stereo along with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, plus keyless go and rear parking sensors.
Boot space has improved too, with an increase from 330 litres to 391 litres - about the best in class - and this increased to 1,069 with the rear seats folded down.
One of the safest superminis on sale, the latest Clio achieved a full five stars when tested by industry body Euro NCAP, with impressive adult, child and assistance ratings of 96, 89 and 75% respectively.
In summary, the latest Clio is a star of the supermini class - well built, good to drive and packed with tech.
FAST FACTS
Renault Clio Iconic TCe 100
Price: £16,295
Engine: 1.0-litre three-cylinder, 100bhp
0-62mph: 11.8secs
Fuel consumption: 54.3mpg
Co2: 99g/km
