Renault cuts prices for updated Clio

Renault has updated its compact Clio hatch, paring back the prices of its cheapest model.

The French marque has trimmed its entry point from $18,000 to $15,990 plus on-road costs, putting its most affordable car within reach of more customers.

The rebooted range adopts the same product strategy as the new Koleos SUV and Megane hatch, replacing the old Authentique, Expression, Dynamique and GT with new Clio Life, Zen, Intens and GT-Line models.

While Renault's reworked lineup makes it a little difficult to draw parallels with the previous range, we can say that the cheapest manual and automatic versions now cost around $2000 and $3500 less than before.

It starts with the Clio Life, which offers the same 0.9-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine as the old Clio Authentique and Expression. As before, the engine is only offered in combination with a manual transmission, a package initially priced from $15,990 plus on-road costs or $17,990 drive-away.

The Life model now offers smart keys, a reversing camera, rear parking sensors and new 16-inch alloy wheels along with chrome exterior elements. It is also available with a carryover 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine and dual-clutch automatic transmission for $17,990 plus on-road costs or $19,990 drive-away.

Mid-range 1.2-litre Zen models now feature Renault's C-shaped LED signature headlights as well as front parking sensors, sat-nav, two-tone 16-inch wheels and gloss black interior trim for a further $2000.

Buyers after a bit of luxury would do well to choose the Clio Intens, which adds LED interior lighting, a premium stereo and navigation system, self-parking, ambient lighting and a combination of velvet and leather interior trim for $22,990 plus on-road costs. Intens buyers also get free exterior and interior personalisation options that can add a splash of colour to the car.

A sporty GT-Line, which is also available for $22,990 plus on-roads, brings blue highlights throughout the cabin as well as sporty looks anchored by a rear spoiler and 17-inch wheels.  

But those looking for a true performance option should wait until the second half of 2017, when a facelifted version of the Renault Sport Clio hot hatch arrives.

A panoramic sunroof is available on most models for $1000, while Intens and GT-Line variants can be equipped with a Bose stereo for $500.

The new Clio is on sale now.

2017 Renault Clio prices

Life 0.9L manual - $15,990

Life 1.2L auto - $17,990

Zen 1.2L auto - $19,990

Intens 1.2L auto - $22,990

GT-Line 1.2L auto - $22,990

(Plus on-road and dealer costs)

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