RENAULTClio 5 Doors 2006 - 2009

　　The Clio's third-generation hit the market and grabbed the European Car of the year 2006 award in front of Volkswagen's Passat and the stunning-looking Alfa Romeo 159.

　　The Clio followed the French tradition for supermini hatchbacks. After all, Renault invented that body shape with the 1965 Renault 16, and it was good to do it. It managed to provide an affordable car with fuel-efficient engines and, even if it wasn't everybody's cup of tea, it still offered what was needed for a family. On top of that, it proved to be a very efficient fleet vehicle.

　　Thanks to its new front fascia that featured large, swept-back headlights and a split grille, the 2006 Clio distinguished itself from most competitors who used a single wide grille instead. Its triangular headlights with clear turn signals at the top offered a strong image for the small vehicle. From its sides, the five-door Clio featured a black B-pillar. Its carmaker tried to make it look like a three-door version. While it didn't succeed, it still didn't spoil the overall look. The rounded tailgate flanked by taillights offered a wide and tall opening with a low loading edge at the back.

　　Inside, the carmaker added Bluetooth connectivity for the entire range, which gained the French carmaker an edge. In addition, its center stack featured the climate control unit with AC for almost all the range and the audio system. Apart from the base trim level, the Clio featured softer materials on the inside and room for four people on long distances or five for shorter trips.

　　Under the hood, the French carmaker installed a wide engine choice starting with a 1.5-liter turbo-diesel which provided just 70 hp and went up to a 2.0-liter 140 hp unit. The latter was paired either with a four-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual.