1.5 DCI 80 Dynamique

Cheap to run small car on a budget

I've owned a 1.5 DCI Clio for more than 7 years. During that time I have had the opportunity to get a sense of how it performs long-term. Bought as 3rd owner from new with approx 50,000 miles on the clock, it has now done in excess of 200,000 miles.

Pros: Ideal as a first purchase for a new driver. The insurance group is low, even for the diesel models. Small size makes it a doddle to park. Fuel economy is the best I've ever had. I commute 130 miles 4 days a week, 80% motorway and the rest town / country roads. Taking it easy (gentle acceleration, cruising at 70 on the motorway), 60 mpg is easily achievable. The worst I've had is 54mpg when I didn't have time to hang around. At 115p per litre diesel, £50 gets you up to 650 miles on one tank. Servicing is cheap (oil changes I do myself every 10,000 miles - £25 for oil & oil filter). Budget tyres can be had for £38 a corner if you shop around (185/75/R15). Annual VED (tax) is £20!!! The dynamique model I've got is surprisingly fun to drive and chuck into the corners. Throttle response is good on the 80bhp version, and much more reactive than my wife's 1.7 DTI Corsa. Auto lights and wipers have been useful.

Cons: Yes the sunroof does rattle, though I've gotten used to it. More recently, water has started coming through the plastic surrounding the interior light panel during prolonged rain. Goes through headlight bulbs quite frequently. Track rod ends frequently go loose, circa £100 to replace. Ride is now getting harsh on the 200,000+ miles and counting. Some folks may find the clutch a tad heavy (still on original clutch). Recently started experiencing intermittent power loss and black smoke (EGR possibly faulty), though not frequent enough to warrant further inspection (soon to P/X it for new car). Gearbox replaced by local garage with second hand purchase from breakers yard at 170,000 miles , circa £300. Some may find interior trim cheap, gearstick gaiter comes loose easily, steering wheel can 'melt' in hot weather. Some may find driving position awkward (pedals are slightly offset). Tall folk like me may find the gear lever a bit of a reach with the seat fully back. Minor electrical issues are occasional. Rear light clusters frequently require adjustment as connections can become loose, often mistaken for blown bulbs.

If you are thinking of buying one of these, it is well worth spending a bit of time looking for a good, well maintained low milage example. And check all the electrical features work.

Report as offensive