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Renault Clio (2012 to 2019)

Our unique Expert Rating Index combines scores from 30 of the top UK motoring websites to give you a definitive rating on every new car

Expert Rating

Renault Clio (2012 to 2019)

Not a current model

    Summary


    On sale in the UK from the end of 2012 to early 2019, the fourth-generation Renault Clio is a compact five-door hatchback built on the same platform as the smaller Renault Zoe. It was replaced by the current fifth-generation Clio in 2019.

    Rivalling other mainstream superminis like the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa and Volkswagen Polo, the fourth-generation Clio was available as a petrol, diesel or hybrid model, with both manual and automatic gearboxes available.

    This iteration of the Clio has a more spacious cabin than its predecessor thanks to its longer wheelbase. The hatchback was given a mild mid-life facelift in the middle of 2016, consisting of exterior styling tweaks, new interior trim details and functions, infotainment updates and the addition of LED headlights.

    There is a performance-tuned version called the Renault Clio R.S., but we will be making a separate page for that model, coming soon. The Renault Clio was also sold as an estate elsewhere in Europe, but this version was not sold in the UK.

    Throughout its lifespan, the fourth-generation Clio received average to very good reviews scores from the British media – affordable, well-equipped and comfortable, Parkers concluded that the Clio didn’t have “any particular weaknesses” when it was on sale. However, now off sale, many reviewers comment that the Clio’s interior is now looking dated.

    Carwow explains that “newer models have simpler designs, bigger screens and better infotainment systems”, while Carbuyer says that the Clio’s cheap interior plastics means that the car’s interior build quality is somewhat inferior to the likes of the Volkswagen Polo.

    What Car? adds that the Skoda Fabia has more interior space than the Clio, and that the Ford Fiesta offers the best performance and handling in the Supermini class. That said, most reviewers agree that the Clio is a stylish hatchback and a good value-for-money package – a great all-rounder that proved to be a capable alternative to the supermini class leaders during its tenure.

    Now no longer on sale, the fourth-generation Renault Clio holds an Expert Rating of 65%, based on 42 reviews published by UK media sources.

    Clio highlights

    • Distinctive styling still looks modern
    • Value-for-money package with plenty of tech
    • Efficient engines
    • Wide range of models to choose from
    • Comfortable drive

    Clio lowlights

    • Cheap interior plastics and dated tech
    • Newer rivals have more boot space
    • Optional extras can get pricey
    • Slow entry-level models
    • Slightly cramped rear seating

    Key specifications


    Body style: Five-door hatch
    Engines:
    petrol, diesel
    Price when new:
    From £13,870 on-road

    Launched: Winter 2012/13
    Last updated: Summer 2016
    Replaced: Spring 2019


    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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    Auto Trader

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    Autocar

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    Business Car

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    Car Keys

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    Carbuyer

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    Carwow

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    Daily Mirror

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    Eurekar

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    Evo

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    Fleetworld

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    Heycar

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    Honest John

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    Motoring Research

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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?

    +

    Safety rating


    Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

    Overall score: 5 stars
    Date tested: August 2012
    Read the full Euro NCAP review

    Adult protection: 88%
    Child protection: 89%
    Vulnerable road users: 66%
    Safety assist: 99%

    Note on safety rating

    The fourth-generation Renault Clio was originally crash tested by Euro NCAP back in 2012 and awarded a five-star rating. However, this rating expired in January 2018 and is no longer valid.

    The Renault Clio was assessed by Euro NCAP in 2012 and awarded a five-star rating with an excellent set of scores in every category. This rating expired in January 2019, as it no longer met the requirements for a five-star score. This is normal practice, as Euro NCAP reviews its ratings on most cars annually with most ratings expiring after about six or seven years.

    However, if you are comparing a used Renault to vehicles of similar age, whose ratings will have probably also expired, its safety rating score is still useful. In fact, it’s probably better than most other vehicles in its price bracket.

    Eco rating


    No eco rating

    The fourth-generation Renault Clio was not lab tested by Green NCAP during its production life.

    Reliability rating

    MotorEasy logo 600x167

    Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

    All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

    As of October 2022, the Renault Clio has a reliability score of 59%, which is slightly better than average. This score is based on claims made on this generation of Clio as well as both newer (2019 onwards) and older (pre-2012) models.

    Average repairs costs for the Clio are pretty reasonable at less than £500, although that’s still more than a used car warranty is likely to cost. Most repairs to date seem to be fairly inexpensive, although engine repairs are the most expensive.

    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 3 | Mini hatch | Mitsubishi Mirage | Nissan Micra | Peugeot 208 | SEAT Ibiza | Skoda Fabia | Suzuki Swift | Toyota Yaris | Vauxhall Corsa | Volkswagen Polo

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    Affordable pricing and unique exterior looks made the fourth-generation Renault Clio a popular supermini, though it is rather dated inside.Renault Clio (2012 to 2019)