TheRenaultClio 4is now available in South Africa and is set to make waves in the popular B-segment. The Clio,Now in its fourth generation, has sold around 12-million units since the first version was shown off at the Paris Motor Show back in 1990.

Renault Clio 4 part of successful history

On the back of some strong accolades such as ’91 European Car of the Year, ’06 European Car of the Year for Clio 3 and Clio 2 taking the South African Car of the Year award in 2000, comes the all-new Renault Clio 4. It’s already racking up awards globally and I’m confident it’ll crack a nod for some silverware on South African shores.

“The all-new Renault Clio 4 is in a class of its own,” says Fabien Payzan, Vice-President of Marketing at Renault South Africa. “Its seductive styling, all-new engine, smart and useful on-board technologies and much more, will position it streets ahead of its peers in the small car segment. We are anticipating a stampede by Clio aficionados, many of whom have delayed their new buying decisions until they have had sight of the much-awaited New Clio,” he adds. That sounds like fighting talk, but does the new Renault Clio 4 deliver?

Exterior styling

In terms of looks, the Renault Clio 4 is as sporty as ever, with a coupé shape – thanks primarily to the rear door handles being concealed. The car sits lower to the ground, while more dominant shoulder lines make the Clio look a lot more aggressive. The main changes are the introduction of LED daytime running lights which are standard across the range and a dominant Renault diamond logo on the front bumper. In the boring B-segment, the Renault Clio 4 is easily one of the more attractive cars.

Engine capability

There was only one engine available to sample on launch and seeing as it’s an engineering masterpiece, it has to be mentioned. It’s one of the smallest engines on sale and is a 0.9L 3-cylinder with 66kW and 135Nm. You may laugh at the size, but it’s more than able to match a normally-aspirated 1.4L 4-cylinder found in many of its rivals thanks to Formula One-derived technologies. The main strength of this engine is brilliant fuel consumption and Renault claims a figure of 4.5L/100km. On the launch route I found the engine to be willing and when pushed, delivered a lot of grunt right from the bottom of the rev range.

Standard features

The new Renault Clio 4 is well appointed and comes standard with the following features:

Cruise control with speed limiterBluetooth connectivity for audio streamingHands-free telephoneUSB connectivityOnboard trip computerThe new Bass Reflex sound systemOne touch indicatorsRenault keycardHill Start Assist

There are three versions available. The entry-level model has a 1.2-litre with 55kW, which wasn’t available to drive, while the 0.9L-litre engine comes in two trim levels – Authentique and Dynamique. Both of the 66kW 0.9L Clios comes standard with an integrated satellite navigation and media centre. It’s a touchscreen device which doesn’t take long to get the hang of and the seven-inch colour display is clear.

Safety features

Being a Renault, safety is a priority and the new Renault Clio 4 is well-equipped in this department. It features ABS brakes with Emergency Brake Assist (EBA). There’s ESP which will bring the car under control in a skid as well as Hill Start Assist. There are also four airbags. These safety features all combined to give the Clio 4 a five star rating and a score of 85% on the Euro Ncap crash test.

New Renault Clio 4 – Conclusion

Is it any good? Well, from the initial drive I can say there are no major faults to report. A comprehensive test will follow in future and I’ll be on the lookout for any problems. The best part of the new Clio 4 is Renault South Africa’s pricing strategy.

New Renault Clio 4 variants come standard with a 5-year/150 000km mechanical warranty, a 3-year/45 000km service plan and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty.

Renault Clio 4 – Price

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