Likes
- RS models are superb to drive.
- Even non-RS models are highly entertaining to drive.
- Gorgeous styling.
- Among the largest boot in its class.
Like its big brother Megane, Renault’s Clio city car has long been the darling of Aussie drawn to French flair and a fun driving experience but has never enjoyed anywhere near the popularity locally as it as in Europe, let alone its native France. But it fourth generation, debuting in 2012 if hitting Australian showrooms in September 2013, built on a groundswell of interest for the nameplate anchored off the popularity of the go-fast RS version much loved by petrolheads after a fit on a relative budget.
‘Clio 4’ was bigger than its gen-three forebear, a growth spurt added by its long wheelbase improving roominess and boot space (300 litres). Renault also ditched time-honoured three-door option that somewhat compromised packaging, its novel five-door-only body offering practicality while embodying clever and fetching styling that appeared to have two fewer doors, with the rear door handles hidden in the C pillars.
Initially, the line-up tipped in with the Authentique manual, powered by a modest 900cc turbo three pot of 66kW and 135Nm and offering few frills but, clocking in at under $17k, it was chips-cheap to buy and run – 4.5L/100kms – and brought a heap of charm to the bargain. The Dynamique was the staple mid-ranger, bringing an 88kW and 190Nm 1.2-litre turbo four backed by a six-speed dual-clutch auto shoehorned into a well-appointed package – semi-digital instruments, sat-nav – for its handy sub-$25k ask. In 2014, an affordable Expression version would split the difference between two established variants in both 0.9L man ($18k-ish) and 1.2 auto ($20k-ish) formats.
But most of the buyer and critically acclaimed media attention focused on the RS (Renault Sport) stuff. The halo versions’ importance appeared in the numbers: four different Clio RSs were offered, the tree-topping Cup Trophy Auto, at just under $37k, over twice the price of the entry Clio.
Clio RS’s linage, reaching back to the Renault 5 Alpine of the ’70s, is a rich one, and the third generation to wear the RS badging flaunted tradition by offering a newfound level of smarts to what’s traditionally been a fairly tech-humble hot hatch format.
Controversially, no manual was offered. Instead, the French-built ‘200 EDC’ quartet brought 147kW (200 horsepower, hence the name) and 240Nm exclusively via a sport dual-clutch gearbox in a body-kitted and big-wheeled package offering launch control, an electronic LSD, big brakes (pinched from Laguna V6 sedan), multi-downshift functionality, ‘R Link’ track day data logging, some Nissan GT-R parts binning (shifters) and fancy hydraulic bump suspension. It’s certainly some piece of fun kit.
Performance was 6.7 seconds for 0-100kmh, but the real party trick was in dynamics. Buyers could get the feisty Sport ride and handling tune or a lower-sat, 20-percent stiffer Cup chassis with specific damper settings. For the die-hards and completists, fancier Trophy versions were offered above the standard-tier Sport and Cup.
Buyers up for a bit of driving enjoyment without the RS excess could, from 2014, opt for a Clio GT, offered in regular ($25k-ish) or leather-dipped Premium ($28k-ish) guises, pairing the 88kW/190Nm 1.2 engine with a specifically sporty handling package and a decent standard equipment fit-out.
A face-lift arrived in 2017, complete with fresh variants nameplates in the low-spec Life ($19k), nicer Zen ($21k) and mid-spec Intens ($23k) trims, all of them 1.2L autos. But the big news for gearheads was the arrival of a more powerful ‘220’ RS Trophy, plying 162kW and 280Nm from the familiar 1.6T while prying $39k from the hip pockets of buyers. The regular RS 200 continued alongside the range-topper in Sport, Sport Premium and Cup forms.
In 2019, Renault debuted its fifth-generation Clio replacement. But Renault Australia’s decision to ditch the compact hatchback from local showrooms means that the Clio nameplate is now on hiatus Down Under. And perhaps permanently.
It depends on which Clio and who you’re buying it from.
When talking non RS Clio’s, for what they’re asking on the used market, there are other alternatives that come with a far better and proven reliability record, that offer an equivalent driving experience and may not offer the same levels of “Euro cool”, but if a budget hatch is what you require, maybe it’s best to look past the image and focus on the realities that, the generally lower maintenance and running costs, and superior resale value of Japanese and South Korean hatchbacks, will do more for you in the long term than this sexy little French option.
In terms of the RS models, should you buy one of these? Well that all comes down to who owned it before you.
There is no denying the Clio RS models, all of them, even when used are fantastic to drive and Renault Sport time and time again seem to set the standard for hot hatches.
But because of how great these are to drive, and thanks to the generation 4 has appealed to a wider demographic, many owners have proven that some people just shouldn’t have nice things.
A faultless and thorough service history is absolutely vital as these engines work their lubricating oil quite hard and whatever you do, make sure you have an experienced mechanic go over the whole car for a pre-purchase inspection before you hand over your cash.
Plus various Clio RS models are commonly seen
It depends on which Clio and who you’re buying it from.
When talking non RS Clio’s, for what they’re asking on the used market, there are other alternatives that come with a far better and proven reliability record, that offer an equivalent driving experience and may not offer the same levels of “Euro cool”, but if a budget hatch is what you require, maybe it’s best to look past the image and focus on the realities that, the generally lower maintenance and running costs, and superior resale value of Japanese and South Korean hatchbacks, will do more for you in the long term than this sexy little French option.
In terms of the RS models, should you buy one of these? Well that all comes down to who owned it before you.
There is no denying the Clio RS models, all of them, even when used are fantastic to drive and Renault Sport time and time again seem to set the standard for hot hatches.
But because of how great these are to drive, and thanks to the generation 4 has appealed to a wider demographic, many owners have proven that some people just shouldn’t have nice things.
A faultless and thorough service history is absolutely vital as these engines work their lubricating oil quite hard and whatever you do, make sure you have an experienced mechanic go over the whole car for a pre-purchase inspection before you hand over your cash.
Plus various Clio RS models are commonly seen hammering around race circuits at track days and even though these cars may have been maintained well, a car that has been used on track with such enthusiasm is probably best avoided for most used buyers.
Unless that is you’re buying one as a track hack yourself, if you see any signs that it has seen a race circuit or two, like maybe on the owners social media accounts, avoid it.
The Clio is an incredibly enjoyable car and the one to get is an RS 220 Trophy, but unfortunately, Clio’s can become fragile in the wrong hands and it’s up to you if you want to take that risk.
Overall, because finding a good one relies on so many variables, sorry but we’d recommend going with something more logical and sensible, that is unless you’re happy to take the risk and can afford to throw money at one.
In that case, sure, buy one.
It depends on which Clio and who you’re buying it from.
When talking non RS Clio’s, for what they’re asking on the used market, there are other alternatives that come with a far better and proven reliability record, that offer an equivalent driving experience and may not offer the same levels of “Euro cool”, but if a budget hatch is what you require, maybe it’s best to look past the image and focus on the realities that, the generally lower maintenance and running costs, and superior resale value of Japanese and South Korean hatchbacks, will do more for you in the long term than this sexy little French option.
In terms of the RS models, should you buy one of these? Well that all comes down to who owned it before you.
There is no denying the Clio RS models, all of them, even when used are fantastic to drive and Renault Sport time and time again seem to set the standard for hot hatches.
But because of how great these are to drive, and thanks to the generation 4 has appealed to a wider demographic, many owners have proven that some people just shouldn’t have nice things.
A faultless and thorough service history is absolutely vital as these engines work their lubricating oil quite hard and whatever you do, make sure you have an experienced mechanic go over the whole car for a pre-purchase inspection before you hand over your cash.
Plus various Clio RS models are commonly seen hammering around race circuits at track days and even though these cars may have been maintained well, a car that has been used on track with such enthusiasm is probably best avoided for most used buyers.
Unless that is you’re buying one as a track hack yourself, if you see any signs that it has seen a race circuit or two, like maybe on the owners social media accounts, avoid it.
The Clio is an incredibly enjoyable car and the one to get is an RS 220 Trophy, but unfortunately, Clio’s can become fragile in the wrong hands and it’s up to you if you want to take that risk.
Overall, because finding a good one relies on so many variables, sorry but we’d recommend going with something more logical and sensible, that is unless you’re happy to take the risk and can afford to throw money at one.
In that case, sure, buy one.
Body Styles
Engine Specs
Transmission
Fuel Consumption
Body Styles
Engine Specs
Transmission
Fuel Consumption
Length
Width
Height
Wheelbase
Kerb Weight
Towing
Ancap Ratings
Body Styles
Engine Specs
Transmission
Fuel Consumption
Length
Width
Height
Wheelbase
Kerb Weight
Towing
Ancap Ratings
Warranty
Servicing
Have ultimate peace of mind when buying a used car by purchasing an official PPSR report.
Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of Apr 08, 2024.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
Read our full terms and conditions here.
You are the best, the content in your videos is so helpful, delivered in a great way. Please keep going as for sure you are unique in every way. All the best from Guatemala
L. G. - YouTube
You guys have truly found something wonderful… Loved this channel ever since from the beginning… Will support you guys as long as you guys keep making these wonderful car reviews…
Calvin - YouTube
This is probably the best channel I have ever seen when reviewing vehicles. New or old. The honesty is so appreciated. I’ve been a mechanic for 20 years and I find it very informative when looking for a vehicle for my daughter. Keep up the awesome work.
Jason T. - YouTube
© 2024 ReDriven All Rights Reserved