The Renault Clio is a small hatchback that combines stylish looks with a practical interior and fuel-efficient engines – some diesel versions promise mpg of nearly 90. It’s also good value and many models have lots of standard features, including sat nav. It feels solid and comfortable on the motorway, making it one of the better small cars to go for if you regularly drive long distances.
Renault Clio range and updates
The latest version of the Clio has been sold new since 2019, when it replaced one sold from 2012 to 2019. The latest version is almost entirely different from the older car, although they do look quite similar. The main difference in appearance is in the front lights – the latest version has daytime running lights that form a ‘hockey stick’ shape below the main headlight. Both are only available with a five-door hatchback body.
Both versions of the Clio covered here are available with fuel-efficient petrol and diesel engines. Some models have an automatic gearbox but manuals are much more popular. The latest version is also available as an ‘E-Tech’ hybrid, which combines a petrol engine with an electric motor and an automatic gearbox. If you want a high-performance, sporty Clio, look out for Renaultsport models of the older version. Unusually for a small hot hatchback, it also has an automatic gearbox.
There are many trim levels to choose from. What Renault calls ‘Dynamique’ is the most popular package on older versions and ‘Iconic’ is most popular on the newest version.
Renault Clio tech and features
Standard features fitted to the latest Clio include air con, cruise control and Bluetooth. Many models also have sat nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, parking sensors, and a digital driver’s display.
If you go for an older version of the Clio, you’ll find many models have air con, Bluetooth, cruise control and sat nav.
Renault Clio running costs and value
The latest version of the Clio can give you an official average fuel economy of 49-54mpg in models with a petrol engine, while diesels can give up to 67mpg and hybrids can give 55-68mpg, according to official figures.
The older version of the Clio can give up 47-67mpg with a petrol engine and 70-88mpg with a diesel engine. If you’re wondering why the older car appears, on paper at least, to be more efficient it’s because the method used to measure fuel economy changed more recently to better reflect real-world driving conditions. The latest Clio’s fuel economy was measured using the new method. You can read more about how fuel economy is measured in our guide.
Other costs, including the annual Vehicle Excise Duty (car tax), are very low across all Clio models.
Renault Clio vs rivals
Other small hatchbacks like the Clio include the Ford Fiesta, the Skoda Fabia and the Volkswagen Polo. These cars are all very closely matched but there are differences that may swing your decision. For instance, the Ford is more fun to drive than the Renault, the Skoda is more spacious and the Volkswagen has more of a premium feel. However, the Renault’s style, fuel efficiency and value may clinch it for you.
