Renault Clio: what it really costs to run in the UK
One of Europe's perennial best-sellers — sharp styling, a comfortable ride, and a hybrid that meaningfully cuts city fuel costs.
Based on 1,000 km (about 621 miles) a month on mixed roads. Prices: £11,500 for a 2–4-year-old one, up to £22,360 new. All assumptions →
Buying a 2–4-year-old Clio on finance
| Monthly cost | £/month |
|---|---|
| Loan payment (80% financed, 5% APR, 3 years) | £276 |
| Fuel / electricity | £75 |
| Insurance (estimate) | £36 |
| Road tax | £16 |
| Maintenance | £32 |
| Total per month | £435 |
| Over 3 years | £ |
|---|---|
| 20% deposit | £2,300 |
| 36 monthly costs | £15,666 |
| Total paid out | £17,965 |
| Minus estimated resale value (~55%) | −£6,325 |
| Net 3-year cost | £11,640 |
Leasing a new Clio
| Monthly cost | £/month |
|---|---|
| Lease payment (typical deal: 36 months, 10,000 miles a year, upfront payment spread over the term) | £321 |
| Fuel / electricity | £75 |
| Insurance (estimate) | £65 |
| Road tax and maintenance | Usually included |
| Total per month | £461 |
Leasing compares a new car with buying a 2–4-year-old one, so the two are different cars. At the end of a lease you hand the car back; buying leaves you with the resale value, which is why buying is shown net.
Road tax
UK vehicle tax for a car this age is the flat standard rate, £200/yr, whatever its CO₂.
CO₂: 96 g/km.
Engines
- 1.6 E-Tech Hybrid 145hp (recommended)
- 1.0 TCe 90hp petrol
Costs above use the first engine listed. Bigger engines cost more to buy, insure and fuel.
Why people choose the Clio
- Consistently a top-3 seller across Europe
- E-Tech hybrid drives electric most of the time in town
- Stylish cabin for the class
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