The fourth-generation Renault Clio has been something of a revelation for the local arm of the French automaker, selling around 20 000 units since its introduction back in April 2013 and effectively kick-starting something of a brand revival.
And now the facelifted Clio range has arrived in South Africa, sporting subtle styling updates, a handful of fresh features and a new entry-level derivative. And, rather unusually, unchanged pricing.
The rejigged line-up comprises the flagship Dynamique variant, mid-level Expression model (also available with a dual-clutch transmission and a punchier engine) and the new entry-level Authentique derivative (the Blaze model falls away). Expect to see RS models, along with new GT-Line derivatives, in the first quarter of 2017.
While the exterior styling changes are understated, there have been a few noteworthy updates inside. The leather-clad steering wheel on the Dynamique and Expression models, for instance, no longer features scratch-attracting glossy black inserts. The gear lever and door panels, meanwhile, have been redesigned, and Renault SA claims the new seat fabrics are “of a higher quality”.
The Dynamique and Expression variants also feature a new seat design, which the automaker says provides increased lateral support and is “more enveloping”. The armrests and central air vents also sport a new look.
The base Authentique model furthermore features something Renault calls “R&Go”, a smartphone/tablet application with an automotive human machine interface that adds plenty of functionality to the vehicle. The app covers four areas: multimedia, phone, vehicle (effectively acting as a dashboard and displaying r/min, fuel consumption, vehicle/trip-related information and outside temperature) and navigation.
Dynamique and Expression variants, by contrast, still come standard with Renault’s MediaNav navigation system, manipulated via a seven-inch touchscreen display. This system can be optionally fitted to the Authentique model for the price of R10 000 (and includes a leather-trimmed steering wheel).
The range of engines on offer is unchanged. The 0,9-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol still makes 66 kW and 140 N.m, and is mated exclusively to a five-speed manual gearbox. Likewise, the 1,2-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol still churns out 88 kW and 190 N.m, and comes standard with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (although we expect a manual version to be added to the line-up at a later stage).
All Clio models come standard with a five-year or 150 000 km warranty and a three-year or 45 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km). A fixed glass roof on the Dynamique variant will cost you an additional R8 000, while specifying metallic paint on any of the derivatives costs R2 500.
Pricing:
Renault Clio 66 kW Authentique: R206 900
Renault Clio 66 kW Expression: R226 900
Renault Clio 66 kW Dynamique: R244 900
Renault Clio 88 kW Expression EDC: R264 900
