• Higher quality than the previous-generation Clio
• Personalisation options can add some vibrancy
• Well-assembled but the cabin doesn’t feel special

How is the quality and layout?

Although the fourth-generation Renault Clio’s cabin is more upmarket than its predecessor’s, it still doesn’t feel as high-quality or as interesting as the cabins of some of its contemporary rivals, such as the Skoda Fabia and Mazda 2. The Renault feels a lot more more robust. It has some neat touches, though – especially the versions with the 7.0-inch touchscreen – and it feels well-assembled.

Compared to modern superminis, its an ergonomic masterclass, thanks to its proper rotary climate control dials and a conventional volume knob. A mild tweak in 2016 updated the gear knob to be the same one found in the Megane of the time, but little else changed about the car since launch.

Infotainment and tech

By the time it was pulled from the new car showrooms, the Mk4 Clio felt quite old. The  font on its trip computer looked antiquated then and its small touchscreen is unreadable in direct sunlight. The media system is also unfathomable on the move with far too many sub-menus.

We’re also less enthused about how lower-spec models don’t feature the same soft-touch plastics as derivatives further up the range, or that some of the controls on the centre console are orientated in such a way as to be more logical on left-hand drive cars, such as the starter button which is closer to the passenger than the driver.

Still, you can personalise the interior with red or grey appliques, something worth considering as the rest of the cabin is very dark grey in colour.

Comfort

• One of the most spacious supermini interiors
• Quiet cabin although the ride can be a little firm
• Renaultsport versions are surprisingly comfy

The fourth-generation Renault Clio is a comfortable car, and not just relative to other superminis. We found its ride quality could be a little on the firm side, but passengers remain well-cushioned, thanks to its long-travel suspension set up.

The Clio’s seats further improve your lot. Up front, they’re well bolstered, although we thought their side supports could be enhanced to improve comfort, particularly on lower-specification Clios.

The door-mounted armrests are particularly well placed, though, as they’re mounted higher up than other superminis of the day and they’re within close-enough proximity to lean on, meaning they’re perfect for longer journeys.

Refinement is similarly good, although models with larger alloy wheels create quite a racket at higher speeds and. The Clio’s three-cylinder petrol is also a little noise, although it does at least sound good. It’s just a shame the lumpy power delivery can sometimes hamper smooth progress and the 0.9 TCe’s turbo whistle at low speeds can be quite intrusive.