Renault Clio 2014 Review

It's not perfect, but it does a lot of things very well and certainly puts segment leaders like the Hyundai i20, Mazda Mazda2 and Toyota Yaris on notice, not to mention critically acclaimed models like the Volkswagen Polo and Ford Fiesta.

Keyless entry on our test car means one can saunter over, hit the rubber button on the door handle and it automatically unlocks -- handy when you've got your hands full with child or shopping. Once seated in the supportive driver's chair, the view of the road is not the only pleasant one. The instrument cluster is trendy and concise, an analogue tachometer and fuel gauge bisected by a large digital speedo, the latter of which is of great advantage in Australia's hard-line speed enforcement environment.

The centre stack that houses a touch-screen system and HVAC controls is also minimalistic in its design and intuitive in operation, all of which ties together the cockpit in a neat and tidy way that should be the benchmark for compact cars.

Powered windows and mirrors, cruise control, and a nifty colour touch-screen infotainment system also work well, and connecting an iPhone 4S via Bluetooth was quick and easy. There's a USB port to connect or charge your phone as well, and the Arkamys stereo is pretty good considering it has only got four-speakers.

Satellite navigation is part of this sub-$20K package and it works fine, and touchy-feely bits like the leather steering wheels and gearstick knob are pleasant additions.

As Bronwyn mentioned in this long-term test car's opening gambit, it's an attractive runabout, the stylish design neither too busy nor too dull. The LED daytime running lights look good but also mean the car won't be missed by many motorists -- a safety boon if you will -- and is not offered on some cars in this segment.

It's also comfortable and spacious inside and the boot is surprisingly accommodating too.

There's no climate control on this model (upgrade to the $23,290 Dynamique model for that) but it wasn't really missed, as the air-conditioning was responsive and effective even on tyre-meltingly hot 40-degree days.

What I really liked about this particular model is that if you buy it with a five-speed manual for $17,790 you get a very efficient 0.9-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol (66kW/135Nm engine). And it's a great little engine with loads of character. But opt for the auto model (as we did, and most will) and you get the auto, and a more powerful 1.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine worth 88kW/190Nm.

Granted, the EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) transmission is not the smartest of shifters on the planet, but it gets the job done and is a relatively smooth operator in slower moving commuter traffic.

While throttle response is very good and the engine one of the best in class, every now and then the tranny leaves you in the lurch. When seeking full steam ahead from low speeds, sometimes it seems to dawdle, taking its time to choose a gear as you pump the accelerator. It's especially annoying when reversing, as it engages languidly, making small reverse movements frustrating.

At speed, such as on the freeway or on country roads, the cog-swapper does a fine job, and with the gutsy little direct-injection spinning away, the Clio overtakes slower moving cars with ease.

The Clio feels more suited to speed above 60km/h and is entertaining too, particularly in combo with its nimble chassis. The chassis is set up in a way that makes cornering fun and involving, but without sacrificing ride quality.

Whether zipping through roundabouts, dozy traffic or up a winding hill, the Clio feels lively and responsive, and when the transmission is set to manual mode it responds to gear changes more promptly. If you're after a car that's more than just an appliance that'll take you from A to B, something that's fun to drive, the Clio should be top of your list.

I found it to be very fuel efficient too, using a commendable 6.2L/100km after three weeks of use. It's not quite the 5.2 litres quoted, but in my experience it seldom is.

This long-term Clio test car is fitted with the optional 'electric pack' which for $300 adds auto headlights and wipers, which I found very handy (mainly because I'm lazy, but it does let you focus more on the road instead of adjusting wiper speeds), plus power windows all round, electric folding door mirrors and hands-free entry and push-button start.

It's good value, but I'd be happy to pay double if parking sensors were added, as the rear window is small and elevated, making it hard to gauge rearward proximity when parking.

As mentioned the keyless engine start is a good feature, and means the key fob can never has to be seen; which would be a good thing were the 'key' not the size of the Hindenburg.

The 7mm thick credit-card sized key fob is large and pokes at your thigh when (barely) concealed in your pocket. My wife reckons it wouldn’t be a problem for some female drivers, who may find the larger-sized key fob easier to locate in a cluttered handbag.

For mine, when the chunky key card is added to my regular set of house keys it barely fits in my pockets alongside wallet and phone.

Apart a few niggles the Renault Clio is hard to fault. It has a sporty three-door look with its hidden rear door handles, is functional, practical and good value too.

It's ethos of stylishly simple works a treat, from the way the touch-screen system operates to the feeling you get turning the wheel. It's a charming car to drive and I always looked forward to taking it for a punt, whether an enthusiastic drive down the coast or just to work.

More of this please Renault!

2014 Renault Clio Expression pricing and specifications:
Price: $19,790 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 1.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol)
Output: 88kW/190Nm
Transmission: Six-speed dual-clutch
Fuel: 5.2L/100km (combined)
CO2: 120g/km (combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP

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