It's kind of hard to believe that the Renault Clio nameplate has been around since 1990, when the model took over from the iconic R5, writes Brian Byrne. This is still the fifth generation of Clio introduced in 2019, but with a substantial mid-life refresh that is most evident in a very snazzy new front. That brings an edge to what has traditionally been a 'cuddly' styling of the car.
In size the current Clio fits in the middle of a pack of competitors where the Toyota Yaris is the shortest and VW's Polo offers more length. Trendy thinner headlights, and a more substantial grille help to turn heads. A very prominent blue and silver badge on each side ahead of the doors on the review car denoted the new 'esprit Alpine' grade that tops off the variants as part of the refresh. There are other bodywork details and the sharp 17-inch alloys that come as part of the Alpine treatment. The styling of Clio includes an upshift in the bodywork over the rear wheels suggesting maybe more power than actually exists.
Inside, the finish, as has been the case in Clio for a couple of iterations now, provides a good feeling of quality and a decent level of style. The esprit Alpine grade additions include larger centre infotainment screen and driver information cluster, and there are blue-theme accents around the trim as well as in the stitching of the artificial leather steering wheel and edging on the seatbelts. I have previously complimented the physical switchgear and climate controls in the Clio.
Extra storage between the front seats comes in the form of a deep bin under an armrest. That same rest may have been the reason for my passenger commenting on what felt to her to be a narrowish car. But in fact, the Clio is the widest car in its B-segment hatchback space. The rear seats are best for two adults, maybe three youngish teens who don't have to be there for very long runs. But adequate for the segment, and comfortably finished. The 340L cargo capacity would be generous except that in the review car it was significantly less because of the hybrid powertrain.
Which is an appropriate point to talk about the engine. Essentially a 1.6 petrol with two electric motors and a transmission that is evolved from that Renault use in their F1 cars. This gives the model the prefix designation E-Tech, Renault's identification of electrified power. A different take on the 'hybrid' systems we're used to from Toyota, Renault claims that 80pc of driving in towns will be under electric power. Most of my time in the car was on main roads and motorways, so I didn't get the hybrid fuel efficiency benefit that a normal use owner probably would.
The driving experience was noticeably comfortable, as well as being smooth and relatively quiet. There's 143hp on tap, but despite the Alpine grade designation reflecting a sporty heritage, the Clio hybrid is not specifically meant to be a hot hatch. That said, acceleration is more than adequate for worry-free overtaking.
Since it was first launched, Clio has been a mainstay model for Renault, including as a car for a young driver or for older people who want to downsize. Last year it was the best selling car in France. In Ireland it is Renault's second best selling model, very closely followed by the related Captur crossover. This generation refresh will continue to play its part in keeping the French brand relevant.
PRICE: From €24,485; review car €34,035. WHAT I LIKED: Style and smoothness in a traditional small hatchback.
