Renault Clio IV (2012 – 2019)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The Renault Clio IV marked a styling revolution for the French brand under the direction of Laurens van den Acker. Exclusively available as a 5-door hatchback and an Estate (Grandtour), it abandoned the 3-door body style. While its exterior design was highly praised, early models (2012-2016) suffered from subpar interior plastics and average build quality. The Phase 2 facelift (2016) significantly addressed these issues with better materials and updated infotainment (R-Link Evolution). Diesel Focus: In this generation, the 1.5 dCi (K9K) engine reached its peak maturity. The catastrophic Delphi injection pump issues of the early 2000s are entirely resolved. It stands as one of the most reliable and frugal diesel engines in its class, provided it is used appropriately (regular highway drivin

✅ Strengths

Exceptional fuel economy on the 1.5 dCi (often under 4.5 L/100km in real-world conditions)
Attractive and timeless exterior design
Excellent chassis balance, offering a great mix of comfort and handling
Generous boot space (300L for the hatch, 443L for the Estate)
High reliability of the K9K diesel engine in this generation

⚠️ Weaknesses

Poor interior plastic quality and assembly on Phase 1 (2012-2016) models
Catastrophic reliability of the 1.2 TCe 120 engine
EDC dual-clutch transmission can be jerky and prone to premature clutch wear
Noticeable wind noise at highway speeds
R-Link 1 infotainment system is laggy and prone to freezing

🎯 Verdict

The Renault Clio IV is a stylish and capable supermini. If you are looking for a diesel, the 1.5 dCi is an excellent choice. It is highly refined in terms of reliability, incredibly frugal, and perfectly suited for high-mileage drivers. However, it must be avoided if your commute is strictly urban, as the DPF will inevitably clog. For petrol buyers, the 0.9 TCe is the safest bet for daily use, while the 1.2 16v is perfect for pure city driving. Under no circumstances should you buy the 1.2 TCe 120 due to its severe design flaws. Opt for a Phase 2 model (post-2016) whenever possible to benefit from vastly improved interior quality and updated electronics.