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The iconic Clio model is synonymous with the Renault brand itself. Over 31 years, we have seen 5 stylistic and technological evolutions of the car with 15 million units sold globally, which is testament to the group’s bestseller model.

Over the years, Renault has succeeded in preserving the DNA of this star city car, now offering a fifth-generation Clio. Even more contemporary and athletic, the Clio V takes up assets of the four previous generations.

The exterior features an evolution of the previous generation, while the interior is revolutionary. As an example, the new Clio is instantly distinguished by a completely renewed modern design, which is undeniably striking. Step inside the new Clio and experience an elevated driver-orientated cockpit that offers next-level comfort and convenience. I am pleased to report that the quality of materials and finishes has been elevated too, albeit not at the same level as seen in Peugeot’s rival – the 208. The new high-tech driver-orientated cockpit is distinguished by its cocooning seats and the multi-sense customisable ambient lighting, allowing for heightened driving pleasure.

It is 2022, so smart tech is part and parcel of every new car’s design. A range of innovative equipment (including multi-sense driving modes, park distance control and cruise control) enable a superior driving experience. The high-tech experience is further enhanced by a customisable 7” TFT digital cluster, Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) and a prominent 9.3” Easy Link multimedia touchscreen, the largest screen in its category. This infotainment system is perfectly integrated with the Renault CONNECT universe. The EASY LINK system, compatible with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, allows for easy access to all your multimedia content on your mobile device. I can report that the infotainment system is easy to operate and that it adds functional value.

I enjoyed the audio system with its 6 speakers that offer a rich and immersive sound experience, adding to the driving experience.

The Clio V is also equipped with keyless entry and keyless ignition, by means of a Renault Smart key card.

Just because it is compact and well-priced does not mean safety is compromised. The new Clio boasts top safety levels with active and passive safety features. These safety features, such as such as Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Auto High Beam Control (HBC), Parking Sensors (Front* & Rear), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), combined with Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), aid the driver for a safer driving experience.  The reinforced structure of the seating along with high-efficiency front airbags, side airbags, a pressure sensor to detect impact, seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters in the front and rear side seats, a seat belt reminder warning with detection, whiplash headrests and ISOFIX seat anchors all contribute to the stringent safety levels of new Clio. It is no surprise that the Clio boasts a 5-star safety rating.

The Clio is powered by an entirely new 1.0 TCe 100 petrol engine; a 3-cylinder turbo that offers 74kW of power and 160Nm of torque. That is an improvement of 8kW and 20Nm in comparison to the Clio IV. It also takes advantage of the latest technological developments to lower fuel consumption by 10%, which puts it at the highest frugal levels of the market. Renault claim a fuel consumption from only 5.7L/100km* (*combined fuel cycle).

Thanks to its dynamic chassis and its direct and precise steering, a more intuitive driving experience was experienced when compared to its 208 rival and the Opal Corsa. The Corsa shares the same underpinnings as the 208, however, it is a tad sportier. The suspension and soundproofing have also been upgraded for the comfort of all. This has made a big improvement in perceived quality. 

Service and warranty

As is standard across Renault’s entire product range, the new Renault Clio model range comes with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Services take place at 15 000km intervals, and a standard 2-year/30 000km service plan applies.

The new Renault Clio range also assumes the latest nomenclature to denote the range walk with LIFE representing the entry spec, ZEN the mid spec and INTENS the highest model spec.

Pricing

Clio V 1.0 Turbo LIFE -              R309 900

Clio V 1.0 Turbo ZEN -              R324 900

Clio V 1.0 Turbo INTENS -         R349 900                      

Options include:

Metallic paint –                           R2 500                                                            

INTENS Option Pack –              R15 000

9.3" Media Screen, Rear Camera, Front PDC and 17" Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels.  

renault.co.za