2003 Renault Clio Dynamique review from UK and Ireland

The sunroof rattles a lot on uneven road surfaces, probably partly due to the stiffer ride of the sports suspension.

The car has failed to start on a number of occasions.

First gear can be sticky if you attempt a quick change down, and are traveling above 5mph.

Car has a tendency to stall easily in slowly moving traffic if you're not really careful with the clutch, and keep the revs up above 2000rpm.

This car has given me an enormous amount of fun so far, despite a long wait for delivery due to Renault not delivering any cars during August!

Compared to other super minis in the same price bracket, a lot of featured are fitted as standard. The trip computer, sensitive windscreen wipers and headlamps, quality sound system and sports seats are far more than I expected.

The cabin is reasonably well laid out, with the exception of the useless drinks holder in the centre console, and the seats are super comfortable.

The car is far more pacy than I expected from a 1.2 and the 16v gives he engine a lovely agressive tone when pushed above 3500 revs.

Handling is superb, it corners really solidly with little body roll, and the car more than held it's own at a track day, up against some heavily modded competition!

Fuel economy is not as great as I expected, around 40/ 45 mpg on mostly city driving.

I think the car could have benefited from a little more thought going into the design of the cabin. Although a leather steering wheel is standard, the gear stick and handbrake look and feel cheap, they'll be getting changed pretty quickly! Including some styling extras would push this car into another league.

The car looks great! Exterior styling is really well thought out and gives the car a sporty and expensive look.

Generally speaking I love my car, and if you're prepared to over look the slightly French attitude to the finish, it represents excellent value for money.