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Renault Clio

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Expert Rating

Renault Clio

(2019 - present)

    Summary


    The Renault Clio is a small, supermini-class hatchback. The latest fifth-generation model was unveiled at the 2019 Geneva motor show before arriving on UK streets in late 2019.

    Like the last model, the new Clio is only available as a five-door hatchback. A high-performance Clio RS version is not expected, while a hybrid model joined the range in late 2020. A facelifted range is set to launch in Summer 2023, which only includes the hybrid ‘E-Tech’ powertrain.

    The initial reviews for the new Renault Clio have been broadly positive, with particular praise for its refinement and high-quality interior. However, it is not considered as good to drive as the Ford Fiesta. At this stage, the Clio’s overall Expert Rating puts it in the top half of the supermini class, albeit some distance behind the class leaders.

    As of April 2023, the Renault Clio has an Expert Rating of 69%, based on 31 reviews from the UK media.

    Clio highlights

    • Lots of helpful tech
    • Impressive interior trims
    • Quite fun to drive
    • Class-leading safety equipment
    • Hybrid variant is very smooth on the road

    Clio lowlights

    • Clunky manual gearbox
    • Less space in the rear than rivals
    • Loud engine

    Key specifications


    Body style: Five-door hatch
    Engines: petrol, diesel, hybrid
    Price: From £18,290 on-road

    Launched: Spring 2019
    Last updated: Autumn 2020
    Replacement due: TBA


    Media reviews


    Reviews, road test and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

    Auto Express

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    Autocar

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    Car

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    Car Keys

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    Carbuyer

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    Carwow

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    Company Car Today

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    Daily Mirror

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    Fleetworld

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    Green Car Guide

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    Honest John

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    Parkers

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    The Sun

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    The Sunday Times

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    The Telegraph

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    Top Gear

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    What Car?

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    Which?

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    Safety rating


    Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

    Overall score: 5 stars
    Date tested: May 2019
    Read the full Euro NCAP review

    Adult protection: 96%
    Child protection: 89%
    Vulnerable road users: 72%
    Safety assist: 75%

    This rating applies for both petrol and diesel Clio models, as well as the Clio E-Tech Hybrid.

    While a five-star safety score is an impressive accolade, it must be noted that most entry-level and mid-range Clio model do not come with all of the safety features required for this five-star crash test rating.

    Eco rating


    Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

    Model tested: 1.0-litre petrol manual 100hp

    Overall score: 3 stars
    Date tested: November 2020
    Read the full Green NCAP review

    Clean Air Index: 4.6 / 10
    Energy Efficiency Index: 6.9 / 10

    The current-generation Renault Clio was tested by Green NCAP in 2020, and was commended by the assessing body for its “very creditable three-star rating”, which is above average by petrol car standards.

    The rating above only applies to a Clio which is powered by a 100hp 1.0-litre petrol engine and fitted with a manual gearbox. It does not apply to any other engine/gearbox combination.

    Awards


    Trophies, prizes and awards that the Renault Clio has received

    2021

    • Auto Express Awards – Best Supermini
    • Carbuyer Awards – Best Small Car
    • Company Car Today Awards – Best Supermini
    • Parkers New Car Awards – Best First Car

    2020

    • Auto Express Awards – Best Supermini
    • Business Car Awards – Best Small Car
    • Carbuyer Awards – Car of the Year + Best Small Car
    • DieselCar & EcoCar Top 50 – Car of the Year + Best Small Car
    • Fleet World Awards – Best Fleet Supermini
    • Parkers New Car Awards – Best First Car

    2019

    • Parkers New Car Awards – Best First Car

    Similar cars


    If you’re looking at the Renault Clio, you might also be interested in these alternatives

    Audi A1 | Citroën C3 | Dacia Sandero | Ford Fiesta | Honda Jazz | Hyundai i20 | Kia Rio | Mazda 2 | MG 3Mini hatch | Mitsubishi MirageNissan Micra | Peugeot 208 | SEAT Ibiza | Skoda FabiaSuzuki Swift | Toyota Yaris | Vauxhall Corsa | Volkswagen Polo

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    Media reviews for the new Renault Clio have been broadly positive, with particular praise for its refinement and high-quality interior. Renault Clio