The best Renault Clio alternatives

The Renault Clio has been fighting the best superminis in the class for more than 25 years. Now in its fourth-generation, it’s praised by the motoring press for its well judged ride and handling, economical engines and eye-catching looks.

Despite the Clio’s talents, the supermini class is among the most fiercely fought – do any offer something the Clio doesn’t? We take a look at some of the best alternatives to the Renault.

If you’re not sold on any of these options, put the Renault Clio in our car configurator to see how much carwow could help you save. To see more choices, check out our list of the top 10 best superminis.

Peugeot 208

The handsome Peugeot 208 offers many similar qualities to the Clio – it’s fun to drive, reasonably spacious inside, and everything is put together in a way that couldn’t be further from the reputation of old French cars. In one or two areas the 208 makes a more compelling choice than the Renault. In particular, the economical engine lineup means that running costs are tiny.

Fitted with the 1.6-litre diesel, the 208 claims to be on of the most frugal cars on the market, returning a staggering 94.2mpg in official tests. At the sporty end of the range, the 208 GTI provides some truly stiff opposition to the RenaultSport Clio 220.

Select your ideal Peugeot 208 in our car configurator to see the savings offered.

Renault Captur

Many buyers now choose crossover vehicles over more conventional superminis. In the shape of the Renault Captur, the brand can offer the Clio’s charm in a chunky, more practical, SUV-inspired package. For a more in depth look at how the two compare, our side-by-side comparison takes a look at all the important details.

Being based on the same platform, the Captur feels similar to drive than the Clio, is powered by similar engines and shares many styling cues both inside and out. Options including contrasting paint finishes for the roof let buyers add a little personality to the design, and the higher seating position improves visibility during city driving.

Choose your perfect Renault Captur in our car configurator to see the reductions on offer.

Ford Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta is the default supermini of choice for many, and with good reason – it delivers in so many areas. Its agile handling paired with light, accurate steering makes even the most basic models fun to drive, while the ride remains very smooth compared to its closest competitors.

There’s a huge choice of engines under the bonnet, with Ford’s smooth 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol among the highlights. Performance fans can look to the brilliant ST, which is rightly considered to be one of the greatest hot hatches of all time.

Check out the deals offered by speccing up a Ford Fiesta in our car configurator.

Skoda Fabia

By all sensible measures, the Skoda Fabia is one of the best superminis on sale today. Some might argue it’s just a little too sensible – we feel the Clio looks more interesting inside and out, and is more fun to drive.

If those factors aren’t of concern, there are plenty of reasons to appreciate the little Skoda. Build quality is first-rate, cabin space is among the best in the class and the 330-litre boot is 10 per cent larger than the Renault’s. Cap it off with a comfortable ride and a competitive purchase price, and few superminis become easier to live with every day.

Put the Skoda Fabia in our car configurator to see the discounts offered.

Citroen C4 Cactus

The Citroen C4 Cactus is one of the most intriguing options in the supermini and compact crossover classes. Simplicity was key to its development – the button-count on the dash is minimal thanks to a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, the rear windows are hinged to reduce weight and complication, and the back seat is a single-piece bench.

These factors help make it very lightweight for the class – the most frugal diesel is capable of a claimed 83.1mpg. It feels nippy around town, and has a smooth, comfortable ride. Whatever your opinion on the quirky ‘Airbumps’, it means the Cactus is up to coping with unwanted parking dings.

Spec your ideal Citroen C4 Cactus in our car configurator to see what reductions are offered.

Save money on your next supermini

Put the Renault Clio in our car configurator to see how much carwow could help you save. For more options, head over to our deals page or, if you still need help picking you next car, check out our car chooser.