Distinguished by a ‘Va Va Voom’ badge on the rear tailgate, the five door hatch – aimed at younger buyers – is priced at just R5 below the crucial R100 000 mark.
Standard interior comforts include air-conditioning, front electric windows, ‘intelligent’ electric power-assisted steering with height adjustment for the steering wheel, tinted glass all round, internally adjustable door mirrors and comprehensive instrumentation including a rev counter, clock and digital oil level indicator with time delay. Remote central locking is also standard, incorporating the Renault Anti-Intruder Device (RAID) that automatically locks the doors when in motion, as well as the Stay Shut system which re-locks the car automatically if unlocked accidentally. A unique addition to the Clio Va Va Voom is a specially sourced VDO radio incorporating a CD/MP3 player, which enables the playing of conventional compact discs as well as CDs recorded with MP3 digital audio files.
The safety package includes adaptive dual front airbags for the driver and passenger, with a manual deactivation system that allows for the fitment of a child seat on the passenger side. International standard Isofix points are also fitted on the two outer rear seats. Vehicle security is taken care of by a transponder controlled engine immobiliser, security window etching and visible VIN plate, anti-drill door locks and a locking fuel cap.
The Clio Va Va Voom shares its mechanical specification with the 1.2 litre 16v Authentique model. The 1 149cc fuel-injected engine is good for 55 kW of power and 105 Nm of torque, and gets up to 100 km/hr in 13 seconds on its way to a top speed of 170 km/hr.