• Clio Expression is full of character

    by  • May 16, 2012 • Car Reviews, Test Drives

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    2012 Renault Clio Expression Front Right

    The Clio feels bigger inside than it looks from the outside

    Renault really does excel when it comes to designing the little things in the new Clio.

    I was particularly taken with the tiny steering wheel audio/wiper stalks and they reminded me a little bit of Shrek’s antlers – but in a good way.

    The two-dials-in-one heating controls also deserve a mention in the design stakes.

    The Clio is a really smart, cute looking little car, but inside it’s actually a lot roomier than you’d expect.

    2012 Renault Clio Expression Interior

    The steering wheel stalks on the Renault Clio are really dinky

    I was impressed with the amount of leg room in the back seat area of the 3-door model I was driving.

    Initially, I thought the space looked tiny but I was pleasantly surprised when I sat in – at 5’5” I didn’t feel at all cramped in the back with the driver’s seat set for my leg length.

    The deep boot also holds a lot more than you’d expect.

    The 1.2l petrol Expression model I was driving was the entry level one so while it did have auto lights, luxuries such as cruise control, Bluetooth and USB were not included.

    Driving-wise I enjoyed the Clio. However, as I was in fifth and top gear at 60kph, I really felt it could do with a sixth gear.

    Naturally enough you’d expect a city car to do well in urban driving and the Clio does not let the side down, it’s easy to park, is quite nippy and has enough power behind it to get you through ‘quick getaway’ situations, like at a busy roundabout.

    While it does protest at being pushed to motorway speeds, it gets there in the end without too much difficulty – but cruise control would be handy to maintain that speed.

    Overall, I found the Clio Expression a fun and zippy little car that has loads of character and is a lot bigger than it looks.

    Prices for the Clio Expression cost from €12,990, but Renault is running offers on this model at the moment.

    Tech Spec:
    Engine: 1.2l petrol/ethanol 75hp
    Transmission: 5-speed manual
    Acceleration: 0-100km/h in 13.4
    Top speed: 167km/h
    Combined Fuel Consumption: 5.9l/100km
    CO2 Emissions: 138g/km
    Annual road tax: €225 (Band B)

    A version of this article also appeared in Metro Herald