Indepth: Renault Clio Sport

Story Kimitsu Yang
Photos Andy Wee

No matter how hard one tries, the Clio delivers surprisingly excellent levels of handling.

They made us wait a three long years before making the third generation Clio available here. But don't be quick to dismiss the car as a day-old breakfast roll because there's absolutely nothing wrong with the Clio Sport – except the name, which is a misnomer.

Otherwise, the Clio has a really well sorted chassis that feels rigid and it's backed by a suspension set-up that makes the car rather neutral around corners. No matter how hard one tries, the Clio delivers  surprisingly excellent levels of handling. Little body roll, little understeer, little tail movement – all this while maintaining a pliant and comfortable ride over the increasing undulations on our roads.

QUICKLY
The Clio Sport has enough reasons – handling prowess, build quality, packaging and, most importantly, safety credentials – to be forgiven for its late arrival here.

WE LIKE
- "Big car" packaging
- Cabin refinement
- Great handling…

WE DON'T LIKE
- … but not enough power
- Only four cogs
- Calling it a "Sport" when it's not

ESSENTIALS
Engine: 1598cc, 16-valves, inline-4
Power: 111bhp at 6000rpm
Torque: 151Nm at 4250rpm
Gearbox: 4-speed automatic with manual select
Top Speed: 186km/h
0-100KM/H: 12.2 seconds