Renault Clio, the Sophisticated Supermini

The market is full of different varieties of small compact super-mini's. In a fast paced life as today's where there are many vehicles on the road, small cars are the best buy and a good bargain for your money.

Renault Clio - The Renault Clio was introduced in 1990 by the French automobile company Renault. There have been three generations that have been introduced since its first entry into the market. It has been one of the top most selling cars in Europe since its launch and has been credited with getting Renault back on track after a tough phase that the company had to face in the late 1980's. It is available in Japan as Renault Lutecia. The third generation version of this car has 3 models, a

3-door hatchback, a 5-door hatchback and a 5-door estate. The third generation Clio has a 1.2-litre 16V (75hp), a 1.4-litre 16V (98hp) and a 1.6-litre 16V (113hp) unit, whereas the 1.5-litre dCi diesel engine is available in three power outputs- 70hp, 86hp and 106hp. It also has most powerful dCi 106 six speed manual transmission.

The new third generation car is also available with the electronic stability program that incorporates the ASR under steer control, traction control, and the MSR engine torque overrun regulation. The Renault Clio is the first car in the supermini segment that is available with additional cornering headlamps, and also the double distance xenon headlamps that enhance visibility at night. The third generation Clio has very sensual and soft lines and they highlight the car's dynamism and give the avid watcher a glimpse of the driving pleasure that is store while driving this compact car. The interiors are very well done with a warm finish to keep the five people traveling in it very comfortable. This car also has very spacious interiors amongst all the cars from the Renault factory and exemplifies the light and airy feel that the Renaults cars are famous for.

The third generation Clio has a very well made structure that includes various deformation zones that have been programmed and designed to function its System for Restraint and Protection. There are up to eight airbags, power steering, electric front windows, central locking, ABS with Brake Assist and twin front and side airbags. The car is balanced very well due to its long wheelbase, low centre of gravity and wide track.

The servicing intervals for this Clio are set to 18,000 miles for the petrol powered versions and to 12,000 miles for the diesel engined cars. The fantastic manufacturer ensures built-in durability and an eye for details in its design and low running costs for its consumers. The third generation Clio is environmentally sound, as about 95% of the weight of the car can be recycled easily. Its eco-design has been made keeping in mind the restrictions that have been made due to the usage of heavy metals. The third generation Clio lives up to its expectations and has turned out to be a treat for every one who drives it.