2003 Renault Clio RenaultSport 172 review from UK and Ireland

I have noticed an annoying rattle coming from the passenger seat.

However I've only had the car for a week, and so it is too early to say.

The Renault Clio is a car which places very competent among its rivals.

I had a Clio 1.2 16v Dynamique. It looked good, it drove well, and it is well priced especially if you take the standard equipment into consideration.

The Clio 172 on the other hand is more than competent, in fact it's a natural winner.

I'm still supposed to be wearing the engine in so I haven't unleashed the cars full potential yet, but I know when I do ill have to watch out for the blue flashing lights!

The fact that I'm used to driving a 1.2 is one thing, but the 2.0L engine is greatly assisted by Variable Valve Timing, which for someone who likes to drive with the needle approaching the red line it's a dream come true.

The handling is a lot firmer than my old Clio, and feels more precise, therefore capable of murdering every other car in this class on those twisty country roads.

The equipment level is high for the price, and comfort OK for what I want it for, after all its not an old blokes Jaguar.

If you want thrills and spills, but don't want to fall into the same class as all the cheesy boy racers I see in my local McDonald's car park then this is a good choice of car for you.

I just can't wait till I can really nail it and have all hell brake loose with me playing the role of the Devil!!!