About the Renault Clio Mk5
AI-generatedThe fifth-generation Renault Clio, launched in 2019, represents a significant leap forward for France's perennial supermini bestseller. Built on the CMF-B platform shared with the Nissan Juke, the Mk5 Clio offers a more premium cabin with improved materials, a fully digital instrument cluster, and a portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment system. Available with a range of petrol engines including 1.0-litre SCe, 1.0-litre TCe turbocharged, and 1.3-litre TCe units, plus a hybrid E-Tech version from 2020, the Mk5 delivers improved efficiency and refinement over its predecessor. The Mk5 Clio has been praised for its sharp styling, comfortable ride quality, and engaging handling that maintains Renault's reputation for producing driver-focused superminis. The interior quality represents a notable step up from the Mk4, with soft-touch materials and clever storage solutions throughout. Standard equipment levels are generous across the range, with even entry-level models featuring LED headlights and a decent level of safety technology. The E-Tech hybrid variant offers impressive fuel economy for urban driving, though the complexity of the system has raised some reliability concerns.
Known Issues
Known Issues
Mk5 (2019-present)
2019-present
- E-Tech hybrid system can experience software glitches requiring dealer updates
- Touchscreen infotainment system occasionally freezes or becomes unresponsive
- Some owners report premature wear on front brake discs and pads
- Auto emergency braking can sometimes activate unnecessarily on tight country roads
- Digital instrument cluster may suffer from pixel fade or screen glitches
- Stop-start system can be temperamental in cold weather
- Minor interior trim rattles from dashboard area reported by some owners
- USB connectivity issues with certain Android phones
- 1.0 TCe engine timing belt concerns though less common than in older Renault engines
Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,100-£1,600
Insurance Group
9-17
Average Service
£220
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Sharp, modern styling with premium-feeling interior
- Engaging and composed handling with comfortable ride
- Excellent infotainment system when working properly
- Strong engine range including frugal E-Tech hybrid option
- Five-star Euro NCAP safety rating with comprehensive standard equipment
- Generous equipment levels across all trim levels
- Good rear seat space for the supermini class
Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2022 - Benefits from software updates addressing early infotainment bugs, plus minor interior quality improvements and updated safety features while avoiding initial teething problems
- 2023 - Most refined version with all known issues addressed, improved build quality, and latest software updates pre-installed from factory
Worst Years
- 2019 - First year of production with most infotainment bugs, E-Tech hybrid teething troubles, and some early build quality inconsistencies
- 2020 - Early E-Tech hybrid models experienced software calibration issues and battery management problems requiring multiple dealer visits
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The Mk5 Clio was the first Renault to feature the brand's new digital interior design philosophy with twin screens
The E-Tech hybrid uses Formula 1-derived technology from Renault's racing programme, featuring a dog clutch gearbox without a traditional clutch
It won the 2020 European Car of the Year award, the Clio's second time winning this prestigious title
The Mk5 is 14mm longer but 30kg lighter than the Mk4 despite increased equipment levels
Gallery
Alternatives to Consider
Peugeot 208
Similar platform, stylish design, larger boot, and available as full electric e-208 with better EV range than Clio hybrid efficiency
Ford Fiesta
Class-leading handling, proven reliability, excellent engine range, though discontinued in 2023 making used examples worth considering
Volkswagen Polo
Superior build quality and interior materials, stronger residuals, more conservative but dependable choice with less technology issues
Toyota Yaris
More reliable hybrid system with proven track record, excellent fuel economy, and Toyota's reputation for dependability
Seat Ibiza
VW Group quality at lower price, sporty styling, excellent infotainment system, practical boot space
Owner Tips
- 1Keep infotainment software updated at dealer services to prevent glitches and freezing
- 2For E-Tech hybrid models, allow the system to fully initialise before driving to avoid error messages
- 3Check brake discs regularly for scoring or wear, especially if you do lots of town driving
- 4Use both manual and digital displays to ensure no pixel fade issues during warranty period
- 5Disable auto emergency braking on narrow country lanes if you experience false activations
- 6Premium unleaded fuel in TCe engines can improve performance and reduce carbon buildup
- 7Keep USB connections clean and use quality cables to avoid connectivity issues
- 8Service on time to maintain warranty coverage, especially important for hybrid models
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