Next-gen Renault Clio has arrived

When the previous Renault Clio, generation number four, was launched in SA back in 2013, sales staff at Tangawizi Motors were doing deals on the run so high was the demand.

Will the newly-launched Clio 5 perform as well as its predecessor?

Autodealer had a look at the new threemodel line-up to find out if it's another high volume seller for the French brand.

Familiar look

Renault's designers were not too adventurous when they penned the new Clio, having opted to keep much of the hatch's familiar lines.

However, the Clio 5 does feature a sportier design than the outgoing version through the addition of a larger front grille, C-shaped daytime running lights, sleeker headlights and taillights, concealed rear door handles, chrome finishes, and an updated rear-end.

The B-segment hatchback is now also slightly larger than before, resulting in an improved cargo capacity of 391 litres.

Inside the cabin, an array of equipment is fitted across the range, including a 4.2inch driver’s display, all-round LED lights, manual air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, emergency brake assist, hill-start assist, ABS, six airbags, and 16inch alloy wheels.

A 7.0-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and six speakers is standard, too.

In addition, the Zen specification comes with cruise control, front fog lights, a synthetic leather steering wheel, '3D Mountain' upholstery, and comfort front seats.

The range-topping Intens gets all of the above as well as high-beam assist, daytime running lights, an electric handbrake, one-touch electric windows, keyless entry and start, ambient lighting, a wireless charger, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a foamed instrument panel, a 'harmony black' interior with black velvet, and 'mosaic motif' upholstery.

Clio 5 buyers can also select the upgraded Intens specification pack for an additional R15 000, which further brings a 9.3-inch vertical central display, a rear-view camera, front and rear parking sensors, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

1.0 litre turbo

The three Clio 5 models now available in SA are all powered by a turbo-charged 1.0 litre petrol engine with outputs of 74kW and 160Nm.

All three cars also have five-speed manual transmissions.

As for now, no self-shifting option is available but Renault says an automatic derivative will be joining the Clio range later this year.

We might also see a second engine added to the mix when the time comes.

Those who are stressing about the neverending fuel price hikes will be pleased to know that the Clio has a claimed fuel consumption of just 5.7 litres to 100km.

The new Clio makes for a refined ride with a smooth engine, even smoother transmission and a compliant suspension, making the car a worthy entry into the B-segment and a proper rival for the likes of the VW Polo.

In fact, the car's overall feel is more sporty compared with the competition, especially seeing that the driver is in full control thanks to the manual transmission.

However, Renault will have to hurry up with the CVT option because most new car buyers today want their gears shifted for them.

Verdict

The new Clio is a big step forward for the brand in terms of the interior, specification levels and drive, and deserves to be on any B-segment hatch buyer's short list.

Such a list, however, will be short because, since the Clio 4's impressive debut eight years ago, the market has shifted towards compact crossovers with some brands no longer even offering a normal hatch in this category.

But if it's a city car you want with its superior dynamics, go drive the new Clio at Tangawazi Motors.

It will not disappoint you.