19/03/08

• Price9025-�£15,715
• We like...Roomy, smooth, quiet at speed
• We don't...1.2 engine hasn't enough power

A supermini that's grown to be among the biggest. It's handsome, smooth and quietIf you like the smoothness, space and hush that you get from a big car – but there’s only space for a small-ish one on your drive – then the Renault Clio is for you.

The current Clio has grown so that it’s now the biggest supermini. Buyers will get themselves a solid and well equipped car, although basic versions look disappointing once you’ve seen the soft-feel trim and seats in costlier models. The entry model’s 1.2 petrol engine isn’t fully up to the challenge of hauling such a big car, giving another reason why you should look to a mid-spec Clio.

Styling sticks closely to the previous car’s: it’s pleasant, but not particularly distinctive. The cabin is well finished and spacious, and the driver enjoys a fuller range of seat and steering wheel position adjustments than you’d find in many. Rear seat space is respectable and the boot is spacious for a supermini’s. Passenger safety has long been a Renault strength and, true to form, the Clio rates a five-star maximum for occupant safety.

On the road the Clio feels very sensible, with a chassis that combines a comfortable ride with good cruising refinement, although bigger wheeled versions can feel clumpy on rough urban tarmac. Basic versions handle respectably enough, but for dynamic thrills youll have to turn to the storming RenaultSport 197.

The 1.4 litre petrol engine is a far more lively prospect than the base 1.2, although it sounds thrashy under hard acceleration. If the budget will stretch, then the punchy 1.6 litre is one to have. Three 1.5 litre diesel engines offer exceptional economy and keep the CO2 figures low at 117g/km for the 86bhp version.

• Engines1.2, 1.2 TCE, 1.6, 2.0, 1.5 dCi,
• Power
• 0-60 mph15.-6.9sec
• Economy64.2-33.2m
• CO2g/km117-199
• Insurance groups3-15
• EuroNCAP
• Airbags6
• Seats5

Motors.co.uk value verdict: