84: Renault Clio – Newest version is a revelation

Top 100 cars for 2020: Clio proves that Renault can make a cabin that’s comparable with VW when it comes to fit and finish

The new Clio picks up exactly where the last one left off in terms of style, but it has moved on in leaps and bounds in terms of cabin design and quality
The new Clio picks up exactly where the last one left off in terms of style, but it has moved on in leaps and bounds in terms of cabin design and quality

Renault's new Clio is something of a revelation, not least because it proves that - at last - Renault can make a cabin that's comparable with Volkswagen when it comes to fit and finish (although let's see how it feels after 10,000km, eh?).

The new Clio picks up exactly where the last one left off in terms of style, but it has moved on in leaps and bounds in terms of cabin design and quality.

It’s not bad to drive - a touch inert as far as the enthusiastic driver is concerned, but fine - although the 1.3-litre petrol turbo is best avoided. 100hp 1.0-litre TCe turbo three-cylinder petrol engine is the best one for now, although there is an intriguing hybrid version in the offing. Avoid RS-line trim as it stiffens up the ride quality too much.

Best model: Clio Dynamique 1.0 TCe 100 for €18,990

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Price range: €16,990 to €25,190 Finance from POA per month.

Co2 emissions: 94 to 118g/km

Sum up: Substance to back up the style.

* A note on Co2 figures: For almost all the cars in the Top 100, we’ve quoted the stricter WLTP figures for Co2 emissions. A few are still quoted on their older NEDC2 figure, and that’s the number they’ll be taxed on. If you’re confused at all, just consult your local dealer for specific data for the make and model in which you’re interested.