Renault Clio
The Renault Clio has been around for nearly nine years and in that time it has grown in stature from its early days as a plaything for Nicole and Papa into an established supermini.
In May 1998 the second-generation Clio was introduced; larger and safer than its predecessor, it achieved a four-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests, making it one of the safest small cars.
Take a close look at its rear styling and you will also see the first hints of Renault's radical new design themes that have reached fruition in the Avantime coupe and executive-class Vel Satis and now the latest Megane.
The Clio is one of the most chic little cars you can buy. It has a friendly open face but a stance that suggests it is hugging the tarmac. Behind the wheel you will find lots of headroom and plenty of seat adjustment, making it comfortable for nearly all drivers. The large front screen and deep side windows make the cabin light and airy and give great visibility.
Buyers can choose from three and five-door models; the five-door is more practical but the three-door looks much prettier. The 1.2 litre petrol engine has to work hard and timing belts and tensioners need changing frequently. The 1.4 and 1.6 litre motors are better bets: they offer more power yet both will still return 40mpg. For the best economy, however, the diesels are well-nigh unbeatable: the 1.9 drives well and will easily return more than 50mpg.
If you fancy something rather quicker then the 172bhp 2 litre Renaultsport version won't disappoint. It can put a smile on even the most jaded faces. The engine is free-revving and the sports suspension and wide-tyred alloys provide fantastic levels of grip.
In 2000 Renault introduced a range of new multivalve petrol engines and an exceptionally economical 1.5 litre diesel. At the same time the warranty for all new cars was extended to three years or 60,000 miles.
Specifications are reasonably good with a driver's airbag across the range and all but the base version having power steering. The RN variants get a sunroof and the RTs gain central locking and electric front windows. Top-spec Alizes also have air-conditioning. On recent cars trim levels have been renamed Authentique, Expression, Dynamique, Privilege and Initiale.
Most Clios are five-speed manuals, although you can get a four-speed auto on the 1.6; it's not the smoothest in the world but married to power steering it can make a fine town car.
While very strong under the skin, the Clio's trim can be a little delicate. Most owners complain of minor rattles and squeaks but generally these are annoying distractions rather than serious problems.
With good fuel economy and low insurance premiums (group 4 for the 1.4) all Clios are relatively cheap to own. Standard servicing is easy and once the car is out of its warranty it can be carried out by most garages.
While it is always desirable to get a used car with metallic paint, on a Clio it doesn't affect the value too much, and it's one of the few cars that look nice in white. But you'd be well advised to avoid examples with no history or signs of accident damage. Because the Clio makes an ideal courtesy or rental car some will have lived a very hard life. You are better off paying a little more and getting one with a known history.
Clio's are sought after second-hand but you should still find a good selection both privately and with dealers. Buying from a Renault dealer will guarantee that the car has a verified service history and a 12-month warranty.
Check out
Sunroof Check seals and look for signs of leaks.
Rear seat Most models offer the flexibility of a 60/40 split folding back bench.
Dashboard Trim rattles and squeaks are common, drive the car for a few miles and listen carefully.
Transmission Check for noise on automatics, they are more prone to failure than manual gearboxes.
Wheels Clios suffer from wheel trim damage through kerbing when parking.
Air-conditioning Optional on some models, standard on plush Alize and Initiale variants.
Engine Petrol 1.4 gives good economy but still feels sprightly.
Water pump Units should be changed regularly on the 1.2 petrol engine.
The one to buy
Renault Clio 1.4 RT three-door, 1999 S with 40,000 miles. £4,100 through a dealer or £3,800 privately.
© Jason Dawe Productions Limited December 2002