2003 Renault Clio Dynamique 1.2 16v

Summary:

A racy, pacy cheeky little minx

Faults:

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.

General Comments:

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.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 11th October, 2003

2003 Renault Clio 60BHP Billabong Dynamique 1.5 DCI

Summary:

A Wee Beauty!

Faults:

There has been a rattling noise which progressed to a squeak from the offside front - Drivers side. The engine mounting bracket has been replaced.

When the tilt sunroof is open at halfway there is considerable vibration noise from the sunroof.

General Comments:

The car feels sturdy and holds the road well.

It does not feel 'heavy' for a diesel engine, and is just as responsive as a petrol car. Nippy.

Fuel Consumption is superb - with a full tank I am getting around 650 miles. Roughly 60-69 MPG. I do not do a lot of long distance driving - this figure is composed of a few 20 mile journeys on the motorway, and several 6 - 10 mile journeys to and from work.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 3rd October, 2003

3rd Oct 2003, 14:23

Just a little tip on the sunroof vibration. Crack one window down just a bit and it will take care of the vibration.

7th Oct 2008, 08:26

I own a billabong 1.5 dci 2003.

The only thing is the sunroof has started to leak onto the drivers and passengers seats...

Has anyone had the same problem, and if so how much to repair.

Dave Bruce

29th Oct 2008, 15:15

Hi,

As an owner of a Renault Clio 1.2 16V Petrol Billabong 03 model, I am just puzzled why they have a pre ignition coil like diesel cars; I didn't think petrol cars had them.

Please could you confirm this is correct to have this on my car.

Many Thanks.

Leigh in Surrey.

2003 Renault Clio 172 Cup Sport 2.0

Summary:

A stripped-out back to basics sports car

Faults:

Exhaust has broken twice.

A few squeaks have begun to appear.

General Comments:

Styling is understated, but sporty.

Unique colour sets itself apart from the standard 172 Sport.

Lovely gearshift, smooth controls and light clutch and steering make the car great to drive.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 26th September, 2003