# Renault Clio — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Renault Clio on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/renault-clio

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2021
- **Ideal trim**: Iconic TCe 100
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–45,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £9,499

## Why this model

Look, I'm going to be straight with you: I really can't recommend the Renault Clio, especially if you're looking for a reliable and cost-effective used car in the UK. While it might look stylish and offer a decent interior, the Clio has a long-standing reputation for significant reliability issues, particularly with its electronics and automatic gearboxes. Owners frequently report frustrating electrical gremlins, from infotainment systems freezing to various warning lights appearing for no clear reason. The EDC automatic gearbox, in particular, has been a source of expensive headaches, often leading to jerky shifts or complete failure. These aren't minor fixes; they can quickly turn your 'bargain' into a money pit. The depreciation is also steeper than many rivals, meaning you'll lose more money when you eventually sell it. You're essentially buying into a higher risk of unexpected, costly repairs and a quicker loss of value.

## What you should pay

The target price of £9,499 for a 2021 Iconic TCe 130 with 30-50k miles reflects the current market value, which is already significantly depreciated from new. However, this price doesn't account for the high likelihood of future repair costs. While it might seem like a good deal upfront, the total cost of ownership, including potential breakdowns and rapid depreciation, makes it a financially risky choice. Be prepared to haggle hard, as these cars can sit on forecourts due to their reputation.

## Which trim to buy

If you absolutely must buy a Clio, the 2021 model year of the current generation (Mk5) is generally a safer bet than older models, as some initial kinks might have been ironed out. The Iconic TCe 100 trim offers a good balance of features without being overly complex, and the TCe 100 engine is generally less stressed than the TCe 130, potentially reducing some engine-related risks. Avoid the EDC automatic gearbox if possible; a manual transmission will save you a lot of potential grief and expense.

## What to check before you buy

- Electrical gremlins (infotainment freezing, sensor failures, warning lights): £300-£800+
- Automatic gearbox (EDC) issues (jerking, hesitation, complete failure): £1,500-£3,000+
- Suspension components (bushes, shock absorbers) wearing out prematurely: £200-£500 per axle
- Window regulators failing: £150-£300 per window
- Engine sensor failures (e.g., oxygen sensor, camshaft position sensor): £100-£400
- Turbocharger issues on TCe engines (loss of power, smoke): £800-£1,500+

## Running costs

Beyond standard servicing (which can be pricier at Renault main dealers), expect to budget a significant amount for unexpected repairs. Common electrical faults can range from £300 to £800+, while a major gearbox repair could easily hit £1,500-£3,000+. Even smaller items like window regulators or suspension bushes tend to fail more often than in more reliable rivals. Fuel economy is decent for a petrol supermini, but this is often overshadowed by the repair bills.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 99-128 hp
- **Mpg**: 39-44 mpg
- **Reliability Score**: Poor
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star (Euro NCAP)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Play TCe 75 | £15,000 | £6,800 | 15-inch steel wheels; Manual air conditioning; DAB radio with Bluetooth |
| Iconic TCe 100 | £18,000 | £8,500 | 16-inch alloy wheels; 7-inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto; Rear parking sensors |
| S Edition TCe 130 | £21,000 | £9,200 | 17-inch alloy wheels; 9.3-inch portrait touchscreen; Digital instrument cluster |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £9,499 | 0% |
| 2027 | £8,074 | 15% |
| 2028 | £7,105 | 25% |
| 2029 | £6,253 | 34% |
| 2030 | £5,502 | 42% |

The Clio's depreciation curve is quite steep, especially in its early years. By 2026, a 2021 model has already lost a significant chunk of its value. While buying it at this point means you're past the initial steepest drop, its poor reliability reputation means it continues to depreciate faster than more dependable rivals. There isn't really a 'sweet spot' for value retention with the Clio; it's more about trying to minimise your losses.

Total value lost since new: 42.07%.

## Alternatives to consider

- Toyota Yaris Hybrid
- [Ford Fiesta](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/ford-fiesta.md)
- [Skoda Fabia](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/skoda-fabia.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.