Renault Clio GT

[Orichalon]

Hi guys,

I'm looking to replace the city car under the scrappage scheme. It's currently a '99 Renault Clio 1.2, and was bought mainly for my older son to learn to drive in. However, we've found that it's not comfortable, and not really powerful enough so would like a replacement that's a bit faster, fun enough to drive and is comfortable for the odd motorway journey that we don't do in the bigger car. Keep in mind that my older son (now 19) and younger son, who will be 17 in September will both drive it, so unfortunately I can't get a full fat RenaultSport Clio .

Currently looking at a Clio GT, which on paper is perfect - quick enough, insurance is okay and I like the styling. However, I've read in several reviews that the torque is nowhere near good enough (115 lb/ft at 4250 rpm or so). Is this really the case, or are they just saying it's nothing compared to the 200? Would I regret buying one?

Been on a test drive and it felt okay with 4 people in the car, but I'm still worried after reading the reviews!!

Many thanks

PS: would only be looking at brand new cars.

[Alfa_75_Steve]

This is a perfect demonstration of why scrappage is a ludicrous idea.

A perfectly good 10 year old Clio is now worth more in the crusher than it is as a working car.



For the OP, though, buying a new Clio is financial suicide. Even with scrappage discount.

[Orichalon]

Alfa_75_Steve said:

This is a perfect demonstration of why scrappage is a ludicrous idea.

A perfectly good 10 year old Clio is now worth more in the crusher than it is as a working car.



For the OP, though, buying a new Clio is financial suicide. Even with scrappage discount.

Yeah, I know the scrappage scheme is ludicrous, but there you go. I'm not worried about the car from a financial point of view, I'm just worried it won't feel powerful enough with that torque.

[Alfa_75_Steve]

Orichalon said:

Alfa_75_Steve said:

This is a perfect demonstration of why scrappage is a ludicrous idea.

A perfectly good 10 year old Clio is now worth more in the crusher than it is as a working car.



For the OP, though, buying a new Clio is financial suicide. Even with scrappage discount.

Yeah, I know the scrappage scheme is ludicrous, but there you go. I'm not worried about the car from a financial point of view, I'm just worried it won't feel powerful enough with that torque.

I'm not sure any insurer would be too happy with 2 x under 20 year olds insured on a Clio GT.

I'd keep the 1.2. Comfort and power aren't something that should be a consideration in a car that's just a learner hack.

[Orichalon]

Alfa_75_Steve said:

I'm not sure any insurer would be too happy with 2 x under 20 year olds insured on a Clio GT.

I'd keep the 1.2. Comfort and power aren't something that should be a consideration in a car that's just a learner hack.

Thanks for your advice, but I'm really only interested in whether or not the torque is adequate enough. The car is not going to be my sons' car, it's going to be my wife's - she will the be the main user and so something that's comfortable and quick enough is needed. I've ran the car through with my insurers, and the price I was quoted is acceptable. It's not really a learner hack that I plan on getting rid of within a year.

[CarlT]

If it felt ok to you on a test drive, why worry what the press say?

[BigMans197]

CarlT said:

If it felt ok to you on a test drive, why worry what the press say?

Exactly, a review is merely a point of view. OP, its your opinion that counts. Go and have another test drive if your still unsure.

[Richard Askew]

If its any help with saving money on a new GT. I've been offered a malta blue one for sept 59 plate delivery for 11,400 OTR through hylton in cheltenham down from RRP of 14,000 with the met paint

Edited by Richard Askew on Monday 13th July 14:54

[Orichalon]

Richard Askew said:

If its any help with saving money on a new GT. I've been offered a malta blue one for sept 59 plate delivery for 11,400 OTR through hylton in cheltenham down from RRP of 14,000 with the met paint

Edited by Richard Askew on Monday 13th July 14:54

Thanks a lot for that - good to know that further discounts are available. I'll take another, longer, test drive and see how it feels.