Renault Clio Hatchback (2005 - 2012) 1.5 dCi (88bhp) Dynamique TomTom 3d (2012/12) Owner Review
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
I like to buy cars which are a little different (i.e. not a Fiesta, Polo or Corsa) and want a good mix of economy and performance.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Looks good, pleasant to travel in and the engine is brilliant.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes, economy and performance are great, comfortable drive and well-priced. Cheaper than an equivalent Fiesta with better performance and MPG.
What are you likely to buy next?
Probably something from the same class or a small family car.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchised
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£7,200
When did you buy the car?
June 2015
Did you get a good deal and why?
Good price as car was ordered in and therefore the dealer did not want me to change my mind!
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Engine more efficient and faster than Fiesta diesels, good car for the money.
What was the dealer like?
Helpful and courteous, answered all questions and was not pressuring.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Very easy to drive, gears are well spaced and the engine has plenty of power for merging onto motorways and going up hills although 50-70 in 5th is a bit lethargic. Particularly like the steering which is ultralight at low speeds and increases in feedback at higher speeds. Suspension is very good, comfortable but not wallowy around corners. Very happy at 70 mph on the motorway, relatively quiet (although the new Clio is a lot quieter) and cruise control is a bonus.
What's it like to park?
Forward and side visibility is great, rear not so much.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Engine was a little reluctant to start when cold - dealer identified two defective glowplugs which were replaced under warranty. Engine cooling fan was found to be inoperative (I hadn't noticed this) due to a blown maxifuse, again fixed under warranty.
What's most practical about your car?
Good economy (achieving 58 mpg on a mixture of motorways and rural roads) for the performance. Compared to the 1.2 16v it really moves!
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Integrated satnav with realtime traffic is brilliant and takes me on a different route to work every day. It's a shame you have to pay an annual subscription to TomTom though as you can get free realtime traffic through Google Maps.
