Renault Clio

Renault returned to the light car segment in Australia in 2013 with its all-new Clio hatch range. Although the previous model was sold locally, only the hi-po three-door RS variant was available.

Not this time around. The French car-maker re-launched the five-door city hatch range with two engine choices and three specifications and aimed it squarely at the youth market.

The sexy little Clio was the first vehicle penned by new Renault design chief Laurens van den Acker and the stylish hatch previewing the French brand’s new corporate face.

High levels of customization a-la Mini and Citroen enhanced the appeal to youth buyers.

Two turbo powertrains were available at launch, including a 900cc three-cylinder unit producing 66kW/135Nm, matched with a five-speed manual gearbox for fuel consumption of 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres.

An 88kW/190Nm 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine mated exclusively to an auto managed fuel figures of 5.2L/100km.

Standard equipment across the competitively priced range included height- and reach-adjustable steering wheel, 60/40 split-fold rear seats, electric front windows (not at the rear on base versions), electric mirrors, cruise control with speed limiter, a two-speaker MP3/USB/Aux-in sound system with Bluetooth streaming, 15-inch steel wheels and a rear spoiler.

Of course, more gear was added the further up the range you went.

The Clio featured standard safety gear including front and side airbags, but no rear-side airbags, a maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating and the rear bench had two ISOFIX points.