2003 Renault Clio 172 CUP review from UK and Ireland
"The best hot hatch around in every way!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Nothing so far apart from not having the 172 cup badges for the sides of the car when delivered, but Renault are sending them in the post. Also the passenger seat was move on it's rails (sorted now) and didn't click into place until I sat in it. The latter problem is the same for the drivers seat.
General comments?
The car is unbelievable. I haven't worn it in yet and so have not been above 3500 rpm yet. It feels like it wants to go faster and is very keen low in the revs. When I can eventually rev this baby up I feel that I'm in for a treat! My old car was a saxo vts and this would eat it for breakfast. The power is always available on the cup whereas on the vts I had to seriously rev it before I got anywhere near the power the cup has at just 3500 rpm. The build quality is like a quantum leap from the saxo and I like the nice little touches such as speed control wipers and audio, and the audio control on the steering wheel. The gear change is shorter and the handling is excellent. Altogether this car is in a different league. A head turner. Can't wait to go up against some competition!
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![]() ![]() | One of the best cars I've driven under £20000 |
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 petrol Manual |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Distance when acquired | 11 miles |
| Most recent distance | 150 miles |
| Previous car | Citroen Saxo |
| Date of Entry | 14th January, 2004 |

