THE Renault Clio has always been a strong performer - and the latest version is an absolute beauty.
It fills the eye as never before - the result of an expansion in dimensions that all superminis seem to have undergone recently.
to keep the Clio fresh, Renault has introduced a new two litre, 138bhp Dynamique S model.
Its brief is to be the solution for drivers who want the refinement and performance of a large car within the compact and insurance-friendly package of a supermini.
As this Clio sprints from 0-62mph in 8.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 127mph the performance is a given.
And the insurance end of the deal is covered as the car is in a relatively cheap bracket - around three groups lower than bigger motors with similar power stats.
But what about the comfort and refinement normally the preserve of a large family car?
Well, this Clio is a winner offering a smoothness, panache and style that for so long has been associated with the French but has sometimes been missing from their automobiles.
It's an all-round superb drive with light steering that is laser accurate. Cornering is a joy with as much grip as you'll ever need while the suspension ensures top notch ride and handling.
The Clio is a cultured beast, so there's more chance of seeing Elvis on Oxford Street performing Jailhouse Rock than there is of any wind or road noise making its way into the cabin.
On long journeys it is one of the more relaxing superminis to drive. The seats are comfortable and very supportive.
Once behind the wheel the driving position is fully adjustable making finding the right one for you an easy goal to achieve - not something that could always be said of the Clio in the past.
The car is now one of the most spacious superminis on the market easily accommodating four adults in comfort. Despite being the sporty three-door model, access to the rear seats is relatively easy as the front seats flip and slide forward.
The boot is a revelation with plenty of room for as much shopping as the credit card can stand while luggage space is surprisingly plentiful.
Standard equipment for the 138 version is impressive.
It has all the goodies of a normal Dynamique S - including extra tinted rear windows, a single CD/radio system with fingertip remote controls and a style pack consisting of sports headlamps, cornering lights, front foglamps and satin chrome door handles.
In addition the 138 is given air conditioning, part leather upholstery, leather steering wheel, front and rear carpet mats, Zinc grey centre console and matching dashboard inserts and air vent surrounds.
There's also keyless entry and ignition and 16-inch alloy wheels.
The Clio maintains Renault's reputation for safety scoring a maximum five stars in Euro NCAP crash tests.
The Dynamique S 138 is choc full of airbags and has anti-lock brakes while security is taken care of with deadlocks, anti-drill locks, immobiliser and Renault's Anti-Intruder Device.
With all the comfort, style and quality on offer, the security measures are much needed to protect an enticing package.
FAST FACTS
Renault Clio Dynamique S 2.0 VVT 138 3dr
Price: £12,810
Mechanical: 138bhp, 1,997cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 127mph
0-62mph: 8.5 secs
Combined mpg: 38.7
Insurance group: 9
CO2 emissions: 173g/km
BiK rating: 21%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust