FRENCH SENSE (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

This improved version of the fifth generation Renault Clio looks appealingly priced and packaged. Jonathan Crouch takes a look at the TCe 90 version.

Ten Second Reviewword count: 76

This improved version of the fifth generation Clio supermini probably won't return this model line to its old position as one of Europe's favourites but it still merits careful consideration against better known class favourites in this base TCe 90 form. Tougher segment competition has forced Renault to up its game, particularly in terms of cabin technology, fit and finish. There's greater practicality, extra safety and media technology and a sharper look. Plenty to like then.

Backgroundword count: 127

The Renault Clio. It's the definitive expression of this French brand's vast experience in the supermini class, building on the company's reputation for building compact cars that are characterful, fun to drive and technically accomplished - qualities that go back all the way to the famous Renault 4 and 5 models of old. Here's the latest version of the much improved fifth generation design - reviewed here in conventionally-engined TCe 90 form. The last couple of decades have been characterised by a lack of investment from Renault in their key models as the company pursued an electrically-powered motoring future the market still isn't quite ready for. That changed with the development of this car. The marque knew it had to get this Clio right. Perhaps it has.

Driving Experienceword count: 199

This MK5 Clio was the first Renault-Nissan Alliance model to use the conglomerate's latest sophisticated CMF-B platform. Herre, we're looking at the entry-level three cylinder TCe 90 version, which offers reasonable performance - 0-62mph in 12.2s en route to 112mph. Renault's set out here to try and deliver a driving experience to Clio buyers that's a little different to that served up before. Previous models had something of a comfort focus, but with this fifth generation design, the brand has sought to combine that with a little of the alert feel you'd get in this segment from cars like Ford's Fiesta. It'd be asking a little much for the company to nail this demanding brief at its first proper attempt, but it's got reasonably close. A little of what we might call 'Clio-ness' has been sacrificed in the process - this car no longer cruises over bumps with quite the ease of its predecessor. Most undulations though, are dispatched without fuss and there's a purpose to the way the car turns into bends and a level of body control that certainly wasn't there before. Plus of course in town, as you'd expect, it's manoeuvrable, nippy and easy to park.

To see the full road test text contact us on 0330 0020 227