Renault Clio V SA Launch

Almost 30 years of production, 5th generation, No 1 selling range in France and No2 in Europe. There are few car ranges that can boast a pedigree quite like the Renault Clio.
The Clio 5 was already launched in 2019 in France but the pandemic, microchip shortages, currency fluctuations and productions shortages delayed its arrival in SA. It’s here now and it’s out to make a statement in the B-segment hatch market. Interestingly, the launch has coincided with the launch of the latest generation VW Polo so it will be interesting to watch the competition.
Evolutionary on the outside and revolutionary on the inside was the description used in the launch presentation. There are exterior changes and modern touches but the car is unmistakably a Clio and cannot be mistaken for any other car. Top models carry daytime running lights, a bolder grille and more but it also retains the somewhat cute and chic presence of the previous generations.
The interior is very different and up to date . A TFT screen in front of the driver and touchscreen infotainment screen in the centre of the fascia. The standard is a 7.3 inch unit but the range topping Intens model with extra pack ups this to a much larger 9 inch unit. All the required functions like navigation, reverse camera and connectivity a re available through this unit.
Like a number of other cars I’ve experienced recently, air-con and ventilation controls are through the touchscreen. Once again, I feel that I would prefer separate physical controls instead of being distracted having to use the screen.
New seat designs aimed to improve comfort and safety are features of the interior and the tactile quality felt good with good quality materials noted throughout.
The Clio is powered by a new 1L 3 cylinder turbo engine providing 74Kw and 160Nm to the front wheels. These are increases of 6kW and 20Nm and certainly help to provide the car with good performance on the road. Overtaking response is also in the good category to give you the ability to tackle the open road with confidence. Roadholding through the Franchhoek Pass showed a well sorted chassis and reminded me of the Clio 2 that I owned. The car always feels stable and planted and feels like a much larger car on the road.
The power is delivered through a 5 speed manual transmission that is light and easy in use, with a bit of feel when driving a bit faster. There were occasions when I felt that a 6th gear would be a bonus and I think Renault may have missed a trick here, especially as the opposition in the segment do offer this. Also a touch surprising is the lack of an automatic option considering how the demand for automatics is constantly growing in all segments of the market. According to the launch briefing, these are currently not available. However, there is a facelift due within the next 2 years and I have a feeling that these may be addressed at that stage.
Overall, the new Clio V builds and improves on the recipe of the previous generations and deserves success on our market.
The car is available with 3 spec levels being Life, Zen and Intens. Pricing ranges from R309 900 to R349 900 and the Option Pack on the Intens (as driven at launch ) is R364 900. All models include a 5 year/ 150 000km warranty plus a 2 year/ 30 000km service plan.
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[@alexikarus]

Bought the first Clio V 1.0 Intense with option package in Namibia. Driving it for a month now and absolutely love the car!

[@coenraadlotz3416]

Renault representative in this video is CEO grade, well done my man, I am sold. Buying a new 2022 Megane soon!

[@MotorMatters]

Thank you. Contact me when you want to buy, we are ready to assist

[@nkgudih]

Renau is always value for money if it comes as basic, the moment it gets high tech trouble starts. Top-spec will be a good buy as 2nd hand Good review

[@ndalamamakhitha3397]

Is there word on when the automatic version will arrive?

[@vhakisa]

Perfect review. Informative. Tebogo is an awesome guy. I am opting for a low mileage Renault Clio R.S 220 trophy.

[@kabeloteddymorris4376]

Great review

[@andysmbambo]

The problem with MottoMatters is sound. you can barely hear anything in almost every video I've watched

[@thetad1242]

They are missing out on Uber car sales. The Renault Taliant as a Logan or Fluence would do in this country in petrol or 1.5dci

[@ryanryu0073]

What about the Clio GT Line?

[@MotorMatters]

According to Renault SA, not at this stage

[@ryanryu0073]

@@MotorMatters Thanks for your reply. Much Appreciated.

[@thetad1242]

They are missing out on Uber car sales. The Renault Taliant as a Logan or Fluence would do in this country in petrol or 1.5dci