At long last, it’s happened – the latest fifth-generation Renault Clio has landed on South African shores. The test crew from IOL went to majestic Cape Town to determine if this car was sufficiently competitive to remain in the hatchback segment.1
Challenges that faced the Clio 51
Certain factors have hampered the Introduction of the Clio to South Africa, such as the worldwide pandemic, followed by a semi-conductor chip shortage.
What are the new exterior’s looks?1
Although the Clio’s exterior looks like the previous model, it has now been fitted with new C-shaped headlights and a new-look lower bumper. In addition, the rear design has been modernised by having larger LED rear lights fitted into the tailgate. The elegance of the exterior is completed by the chrome additions and hidden back door handles.
The interior1
Renault is known for its attractive interior, and this Clio is no exception. The interior design centres around the driver have a 9.3-inch infotainment system with great graphics, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. In addition, two USB ports and a wireless charging facility are situated in the console. A striking digital instrument cluster completes the picture.
How spacious is the Clio 5?1
The interior’s space is adequate, whilst the boot offers about 391 litres of space, which can be increased to about 1069 litres by lowering the rear seats. Although the cloth seats may be slightly off-putting to some, they are nonetheless comfortable.
What are the safety features?1
New headrests enhance the driver’s and passenger’s safety. At the same time, the Clio enjoys Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS brakes, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) and a maximum of 6 airbags.
The Clio 5’s powertrain1
Currently, only one option is available: a 1.0-litre, turbocharged petrol engine generating a power output of 74 kW and 160 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, providing power to the front wheels. A second engine and gearbox may become available, possibly in 2023.
Fuel consumption1
The hatchback has a claimed fuel consumption of 5.7 litres/ 100 km. The test driver obtained an actual figure of 7 litres / 100 km, but this may well be due to the car being in the Sport mode.
The top-of-the-range Intense model1
Test drivers used this model during the launch. It comes with an option pack that includes front parking sensors, a reverse-view camera, a larger infotainment screen, a wireless charging pad and 17-inch alloys.
What will the new Clio 5 cost you?1
As of February 2022, the South African range includes the 1.0 Turbo LIFE (R309 900), the 1.0 Turbo ZEN (R324 900), and the 1.0 Turbo INTENS (R349 900).
Disclaimer
Car insurance is not straightforward, so this article can only supply information. If you want to buy a car insurance product, it’s best first to seek professional advice from a certified financial advisor.
If you are a Renault fan and have decided to buy a new Clio 5, protect yourself financially by buying good car insurance. If you have a bank or other financial institution finance your car, you must purchase comprehensive car insurance as a legal requirement. This is where Prime South Africa can assist you with their affordable, comprehensive car insurance with excellent benefits like fixed premiums* and a reduce to zero excess*. T and Cs apply.
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