Renault Clio Renaultsport (2006 - 2012) 2.0 16V F1 Team (197bhp) 3d (2007/57) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Not sure. I didn't buy it as a statement, only because I liked it. With it being the F1 model and having stickers on the roof, doors, front and back I guess it says I am bold.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They like it to

Would you buy this car again and why?

If I didn't have it I would. But, I do not usually buy a car I have already owned before. I like change.

What are you likely to buy next?

I will probably look at a performance diesel car. So much torque and they are as fast as petrol cars now.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£14,200

When did you buy the car?

October 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

I got a good deal overall. I could have maybe saved a couple of hundred pounds if I wanted to travel

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I saw a picture of one on cliosport.net and thought I have to get one

What was the dealer like?

Very friendly. Tony from Smiths at Peterborough, Cambs was very helpful. Had weekly updates on the car and build and we got it a bit earlier that expected.

What's it like to drive?

Excellent. Some people complain that there is no power below 5k rpm. I do not have this problem, maybe I ran it in well or we have just got a good one but from 2.5k rpm onwards it pulls well. The engine has a flat torque curve and no spikes of power so this means in can pull well. Once you get to 5k rpm and the cam profile changes it does rev very quickly to the 7500-8000 rpm readline. The big brembo brakes are stunning. They have no fade at all which it very important very going 'quickly'. Handling is better than my previous Clio 182. Much more stable round bends and changes direction well. Had a 2 hour motorway journey the other day and loved it. The noise from the induction was great, like a gargle sound. Some may not like it but I did.

What's it like to park?

Its alright. Not as easy as the Clio 182 I had before due to less visabilty but its not like its a huge car. The standard tyres also protect the alloys from light kerb touches

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nope. There are issues about cold running and Renault have advised to let the engine run for a minute before driving off. The 'kangerooing' problem that lots have reported is caused by rough road surfaces (low kerbs, bumps/potholes etc) and a sensitive throttle. I don't think it is as bad as it is made out to be

What's most practical about your car?

It would easy seat 4-5 adults I think and the boot is a good size. Very safe and got 5 stars on the Euro NCap test

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

I like the keycard. I can keep the keys in my pocket and unlock it and start it without taking them out. I like the vents in the front wings and diffuser at the back. I also like the power folding mirrors.