there Renault Clio is the fourth name marked an important evolution compared to its predecessor. It’s 2012, and the third-generation Clio (voted European Car of the Year in 2006) is getting old. Renault decides to clean up the past. In order to fully step into the 2010s, the manufacturer puts the Dutch at the head of its design Laurens van den Acker. For more than ten years, it was he who harmonized the entire Renault line around a common language.

And the inspiration of this language is Clio IV itself. It represents much less conservative lines than before. At the front, the headlights are connected by a black strip – Van den Akker’s trick. In the center of which is an outstanding diamond. This winning recipe has allowed Clio to keep up with the times and age well despite its seven-year career. For the rest, and you know it, it’s a Clio, so a affordable, versatile and multi-engine city car.

A wide choice of gasoline or diesel

In gasolineit was available at launch with the block 1.2 75 horsepower to provide entry level. The old unit that appeared on the Clio 2 in 2000! Among the last blocks follow a 0.9 TCe 90 horsepowerand in the center of the gasoline range a 1.2 TCe 120 horsepower. As for the diesel engine, Renault decided to capitalize on this Clio IV Block 1.5 DCi.

It is developed by versions 75, 90 or even 110 horsepower. It is this first version that the Auto Plus laboratory recommends. The 75-horsepower 1.5 DCi performs its role perfectly. He offers enough of a blow considering long journeys and knows how to remain discreet at the same time. Very sober (on average 5.1 l/100 km), it is quite flexible at low revs. A good companion, both for the city and for highways.

Five levels of configuration

At launch, the Clio IV is offered with five trim levels. Its facelift in 2016 does just that lose the GT finishbut win the business version, previously reserved for professionals. In order not to confuse the versions before and after restyling, we describe in detail the four most important types of finishing (except for GT and Business).

• life : With cruise control, 2/3-1/3 folding seat and power mirrors. This entry-level treatment is not so bare. It is on an aesthetic level that it fails, with a low image level. Unpainted mirrors, 15-inch wheels, steering wheel with plastic trim, no touchscreen. This version is also not offered with air conditioning. We do not recommend this trim, which does not shine either with its style or very rich equipment.
• Zen : The presentation is less strict than at entry level. The salon is more modern with a touch screen that controls the radio and Bluetooth. With air conditioning, a third headrest and additional portable storage space, it offers very good value for money.
• intensive : Aluminum wheels, tinted rear windows, LED headlights (only during restyling). This Intens treatment already gives the Clio a bigger body. It also has new wraparound seats, automatic air conditioning, a hands-free card, and automatic headlights and wipers.
• Initial Paris : Apart from the metallic paint and the glass roof, nothing is missing. The appearance is neat (carpet, aluminum pedals, leather upholstery, 17-inch aluminum wheels, chrome exhaust pipe) and rich equipment. In addition to R-Link GPS, the Initiale Paris has a new active parking assistance system that includes front radars and a rearview camera.