Renault Clio Hatchback (2001 - 2008) 1.5 dCi Expression (65bhp) 5d (2002/52) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
I'm a sucker for good looks and style, over reliability and build quality.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
They think it's nice, but they are shocked about the poor build quality and the engine cutting out.
Would you buy this car again and why?
NO, too many problems and too expensive to fix. Selling very soon and will never buy a clio again.
What are you likely to buy next?
Seat Leon or Ibiza
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Didn't buy from a dealer
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£0
When did you buy the car?
September 2009
Did you get a good deal and why?
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Was given as a first car by a family member.
What was the dealer like?
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
For a 65 BHP car it performs reasonably well... it has enough pull to wipe the smiles off quite a few tailgater's and feels powerful enough to give me confidence to overtake slower moving traffic. The engine struggles a bit on hills, but it's a diesel so it's pretty much expected. The car holds the road well, but the steering feels fairly lifeless and false, not to mention that it randomly lightens at speed occasionally.
What's it like to park?
A doddle, rear visibility is excellent and the steering is nice and light. However the lip at the front is very close to the ground and will catch on the lowest of kerbs if not careful.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
This car may be nearly 8 years old, but it is riddled with faults which are unacceptable for what is still a fairly new car. The ECU has given up completely, and cuts the engine off completely randomly- doing 70 MPH on the motorway for example. Renault want £1300 + VAT to repair this fault. There are countless rattles inside the car and the trim is flimsy- the sunroof creaks relentlessly.
What's most practical about your car?
Economical, I can easily get 65mpg out of it without even trying.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Optional OZ alloy wheels
