This is the fifth version of the Renault Clio small hatchback – a staple of the French brand’s model line-up - and the bestselling car across Europe (but not the UK).
Unusually for such a style-led brand, the new model looks remarkably similar to the outgoing version. Clearly, Renault doesn’t want to mess around too much with a successful recipe.
There are differences, though. There’s far less black plastic trim, the window surrounds have been chromed and the headlights get new LED ‘tusks’ first seen on the new Mégane hatchback. It’s a great-looking small hatchback.
Despite the visual similarities, the 2019 model is almost completely new, inside and out. Renault has focused on addressing the old car’s shortcomings, chiefly its mediocre trim quality and lack of space in the back.
The engine range is new, too. Three petrols – a 1.0-litre three-cylinder with either 72hp (SCe 75) or 100hp (TCe 100), and a 130hp 1.3-litre four-cylinder (TCe 130), are offered alongside a single diesel: a 1.5-litre developing 85hp.
The three-cylinder petrol models are fitted with a five-speed manual gearbox, while the diesel gets six speeds. A twin-clutch automatic gearbox is available, but only in conjunction with the 1.3-litre petrol engine, which isn’t offered with a manual transmission. The TCe 100 is also available as an automatic, but uses a continuously variable (CVT) transmission. All models are front-wheel-drive only.
Since the Clio’s launch, a 1.6-litre petrol hybrid version, badged Clio E-Tech, has joined the range. It produces a combined power output of 140hp, making it the most powerful model in the range (not excluding forthcoming Renaultsport hot hatch variants).
Four trim levels are available: Play, Iconic, S Edition and RS Line. Standard equipment includes cruise control, LED daytime running lights, air conditioning, DAB digital radio and Bluetooth phone connectivity.
You'll need to choose Iconic trim if you want a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system in place of the standard radio. You'll also get sat nav, rear parking sensors, alloy wheels, keyless entry and tinted rear windows.
S Edition cars add to the tech tally with front parking sensors, rear-view camera, upgraded stereo, 9.3-inch touchscreen and, most significantly, a crisp, customisable seven-inch digital driver's display, which replaces the conventional dials.
The range-topping RS Line replaces the GT Line trim of the outgoing generation Clio – a change that will slowly filter through to other Renault models. They're fitted with a unique grille and front and rear bumpers, as well as 17-inch alloy wheels for a more athletic look. The interior benefits from sports seats, a chunky leather-wrapped steering wheel, contrasting red stitching and pedals finished in aluminium.
A number of options packs are also available, although the Traffic and Motorway Assistance package, which includes adaptive cruise control, active lane-keeping and blind-spot monitoring, can only be fitted to TCe130 models in RS Line trim.