The Renault Clio IV marks a major stylistic break for the diamond brand under the aegis of Laurens van den Acker. Available only as a 5-door (with concealed rear door handles) and a station wagon (Estate), it abandons the 3-door body style. Model Evolution: - Phase 1 (2012-2016): Attractive design and first-class road handling, but very disappointing interior finish (hard plastics, imperfect assembly) and light sound insulation. - Phase 2 (Facelift - 2016-2019): Renault corrected the issues with foamed materials, new door panels, the integration of Full LED headlights (Pure Vision), and the arrival of the 1.5 dCi 110 hp. Overall, it's a car with an excellent, very versatile chassis, but whose reliability drastically depends on the chosen engine (the 1.2 TCe must be avoided at all costs).
The Renault Clio IV is an excellent versatile city car, provided you make the right choices. Absolutely prioritize a Phase 2 (after summer 2016) to benefit from a decent interior and more reliable electronics. For petrol, the 0.9 TCe 90 is the most balanced and safest choice. For diesel, the 1.5 dCi is a monument of reliability, ideal for high-mileage drivers. Flee the 1.2 TCe 120 like the plague, a real financial time bomb.