Renault Clio

Hatchback (supermini) · 1991 to present

The Renault Clio has been a fixture of the UK supermini class since its launch in 1991, competing with the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa. Now in its fifth generation, it has evolved through five distinct models, each offering a three or five-door hatchback body. Early Clios used simple petrol and diesel engines, while later generations introduced Renault's dCi diesels, turbocharged TCe petrols, and from the Mk5 onward, an E-Tech full hybrid option alongside conventional petrol units. The Clio has consistently been one of the UK's best-selling imported superminis, valued for its French styling, efficient small-capacity engines, and reasonably priced running costs. Trim levels have ranged from basic to sporty RS and Renaultsport variants in earlier generations, giving buyers a wide spread of specification and performance to choose from on the used market today.

Fuel and powertrain options

The Renault Clio is sold in the UK with the following powertrain options across its current and recent model years:

Petrol Diesel Hybrid

Things to check at MOT

Below are common inspection items that owners and technicians often pay attention to on the Renault Clio. These align with standard DVSA MOT criteria. Every individual vehicle is different, and the MOT history of a specific car can be checked on gov.uk using its registration plate.

Check for corrosion around the rear subframe and wheel arches, a known weak point on older Clios
Inspect the timing belt or chain condition and listen for unusual engine noise on dCi diesel models
Test the electronic parking brake operation on later models fitted with this system
Check headlamp alignment and condition, as Clio units can suffer from lens fading or moisture ingress
On hybrid E-Tech models, check for warning lights relating to the battery and drive system

Frequently asked questions

What MOT issues are common on a used Renault Clio?

Common points raised include corrosion on the rear subframe, worn suspension components, and emissions-related faults on older diesel engines. For a specific car's history, always check the official DVSA MOT history on gov.uk rather than relying on general trends.

Which Renault Clio generation should I look for on the used market?

This depends on budget and preference. The Mk4 (2012 to 2019) offers modern styling and efficient engines, while the Mk5 (2019 to present) adds the option of a full hybrid E-Tech powertrain. Earlier Mk2 and Mk3 models can be found more affordably.

Is the Renault Clio reliable?

Reliability varies by generation, engine and individual vehicle history. Rather than relying on generic reliability scores, check a specific car's MOT history and service record via the free gov.uk MOT checker for the most accurate picture.

Does the Renault Clio come in diesel and hybrid versions?

Yes. Diesel dCi engines have been offered across several generations, and from the Mk5 onwards Renault introduced an E-Tech full hybrid option alongside standard petrol engines, giving used buyers a range of fuel choices.

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