2001 RENAULT Clio 3 Doors 1.4L 16V 4AT FWD (98 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Renault had to improve the second generation of its small-segment contender, the Clio, in 2001 due to the introduction of new European standards in terms of safety and emissions.

By 2001, the Clio was already a respected nameplate in the European market. It managed to conquer buyers’ hearts with its low price, low running costs, and good reliability. Yet, some engines were just upgraded units developed in the ’60s, and they couldn’t be adjusted to comply with new regulations. Moreover, many customers complained about the poor night-time visibility due to the weak headlights. Renault fixed all of these with the Clio facelift, or Phase 2, in 2001.

The car was available in a three- or five-door configuration, but all of them sported the same front fascia with larger headlights extended in a curved, triangular shape over the fenders and hood. On the grille, the carmaker installed the badge on a trim named “bird-beak,” which later on appeared on other Renault vehicles.

Inside, depending on the trim level, the Clio sported either a cheap fabric or velour. For the sportiest version, available exclusively on the three-door bodywork, it included leather and Alcantara upholstery. Like the non-facelifted version, the 2001 Clio provided enough interior room for up to four passengers, or five if they had to. The folding rear bench expanded the trunk area and made the car a good grocery-getter.

Under the hood, Renault offered the Clio a wide engine choice ranging between 74 hp and 167 hp for the gasoline versions and between 65 hp and 100 hp for the diesel. A four-speed automatic was available for selected engines, while the standard was with a five-speed manual.