The Renault Clio 4 is 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. Its already racking up awards globally and Im confident itll 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 its an engineering masterpiece, it has to be mentioned. Its 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 its 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 limiter
- Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming
- Hands-free telephone
- USB connectivity
- Onboard trip computer
- The new Bass Reflex sound system
- One touch indicators
- Renault keycard
- Hill Start Assist
There are three versions available. The entry-level model has a 1.2-litre with 55kW, which wasnt 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. Its a touchscreen device which doesnt 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). Theres 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 Ill be on the lookout for any problems. The best part of the new Clio 4 is Renault South Africas 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
Renault Clio 4 – 55kW Authentique 5-door | R149 900 |
Renault Clio 4 – 66kW Turbo Expression 5-door | R169 900 |
Renault Clio 4 – 66kW Turbo Dynamique 5-door | R179 900 |
Options
Manual air-conditioning | R10 000 (Authentique) |
Fixed glass roof | R 8 000 (Expression& Dynamique) |
Climate control | R 5 000 (Dynamique) |
Rear park assist | R 2 000 (Dynamique) |
Metallic paint | R 2 500 (Range) |