Papa, the Clio's all grown up - page 2

Looks | Looks Inside | Practicality | Ride and Handling | Performance | Gallery
Running Costs | Reliability | Safety | Equipment | X-Factor

6. Running Costs

The Clio, for the most part, is a cheap car to buy, and very cheap to run. Insurance starts at group 2, making it ideal for first-time drivers, rising to 10 for the top spec models, and 15 for the hot 197 RenaultSport models.Most models can return good fuel consumption figures too. Renault quotes an average figure of 47.9mpg for our 1.2 TCE-equipped model, although our week-long commute consisting of fast A-roads and torturous London rush hour traffic saw that dip to around 35mpg. Road tax for our test car falls into band C, which currently costs £115 a year. Residual values are reasonable too, largely thanks to massive demand for used examples.

8/10

7. Reliability

The Clio we tested felt well built, with tactile materials in the cabin and solid-fitting trim out. The only exception was some fraying on the drivers' seat back. To date there are no anecdotal reoccurring problems and many of the car's components are proven. The Clio scores well in the Reliability Index for the cheapness and rarity of breakdowns.

8/10

8. Safety

The Renault Clio scored a maximum five stars in the EuroNCAP crash tests thanks to six airbags on all but the most basic models. All Clios have ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist and electronic stability control as standard.

9/10

9. Equipment

All models receive remote central locking and a CD player, while all but the entry level vehicle features alloy wheels and electric front windows. Further up the range, air-con, 'see me home' headlamps, a bodykit, sidelights which illuminate while turning and sports upholstery can be had as standard depending on which of the huge amount of models are specified.

7/10

10. X-Factor

It's one of the UK's favourite superminis; and with good reason. It blends good looks with great driving dynamics and low running costs – and this, the third generation is roomier and more refined than ever.

8/10