Renault Clio III (Phase II ) 3-door 1.5 dCi (105 Hp)

Renault Clio III (Phase II, 2009) 3-door 1.5 dCi (105 Hp)

The Renault Clio III (Phase II, 2009) 3-door 1.5 dCi (105 Hp) represents a significant iteration of Renault’s highly successful supermini, a segment critically important to the European automotive landscape. Launched in May 2009 as a facelifted version of the third-generation Clio, this particular variant, with its 3-door hatchback body and efficient 1.5-liter dCi diesel engine, was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a blend of urban agility, practical utility, and impressive fuel economy. Although never officially imported into the United States market, the Clio has been a perennial bestseller across Europe, consistently lauded for its sophisticated design, comfortable ride, and engaging driving dynamics, setting benchmarks within its competitive class. The Phase II update brought subtle but impactful changes, refining the vehicle’s aesthetics and enhancing its technological offerings to maintain its competitive edge against rivals.

Engine and Performance of the Renault Clio III (Phase II, 2009) 3-door 1.5 dCi (105 Hp)

At the heart of this particular Renault Clio III (Phase II, 2009) 3-door 1.5 dCi (105 Hp) model lies the renowned K9K 772 engine, a 1.5-liter (1461 cm³ or 89.16 cu. in.) inline four-cylinder diesel powerplant. This engine, a staple in Renault’s and Nissan’s compact lineup for its balance of power and parsimony, utilizes a common-rail fuel injection system, a turbocharger, and an intercooler to optimize combustion and efficiency. It delivers a respectable 105 horsepower at 4000 rpm, translating to 71.9 horsepower per liter, which is a strong output for a diesel engine of its size. More importantly for real-world driving, it generates a robust 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque, available at a low 2000 rpm. This ample torque at lower engine speeds provides excellent responsiveness and effortless acceleration, particularly beneficial in city traffic and for highway overtaking maneuvers.

Power is channeled to the front wheels through a precise 6-speed manual transmission, offering drivers greater control and contributing to the vehicle’s impressive fuel economy. Performance figures for the 1.5 dCi (105 Hp) are competitive for its segment, with an acceleration from 0 to 60 mph achieved in a swift 10.5 seconds (0-100 km/h in 11.1 seconds). The top speed is rated at 190 km/h (118.06 mph). However, where this powertrain truly shines is in its fuel efficiency. The NEDC combined cycle consumption is an outstanding 4.6 l/100 km, which translates to approximately 51.1 US miles per gallon. Urban driving yields 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg), while extra-urban cruising can achieve an exceptional 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg). With CO2 emissions of just 123 g/km, the Clio 1.5 dCi met the Euro 4 emission standard, underscoring its environmentally conscious design for its time. The engine oil capacity is 4.5 liters (4.76 US qt), and the coolant capacity is 6.5 liters (6.87 US qt).

Design and Features

The Renault Clio III (Phase II, 2009) 3-door model maintained the third generation’s fundamental design ethos while incorporating updates typical of a mid-cycle refresh. Its hatchback body, with three doors, presented a sporty and compact profile, ideal for navigating narrow European streets and tight parking spaces. The Phase II revisions typically included redesigned front bumpers, revised grilles, and updated headlight and taillight clusters, giving the car a fresher, more modern appearance without drastically altering its successful silhouette. The overall length of the vehicle measures 4032 mm (158.74 inches), with a width of 1720 mm (67.72 inches) and a height of 1497 mm (58.94 inches). Its wheelbase of 2575 mm (101.38 inches) contributed to a stable ride and maximized interior space for a car of its class.

Inside, the Clio III offered seating for five occupants, emphasizing comfort and practicality. While specific interior features beyond the basic configuration are not detailed in the raw data, models of this era typically included power windows, central locking, and an array of audio and connectivity options. The trunk space was practical, offering a minimum of 288 liters (10.17 cu. ft.), expandable to a generous 1038 liters (36.66 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down, making it surprisingly versatile for hauling cargo.

From a chassis perspective, the Clio III utilized an independent McPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, paired with a torsion beam rear suspension with coil springs. This setup provided a well-judged balance between ride comfort and agile handling, a hallmark of French superminis. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs measuring 260×22 mm at the front and solid discs measuring 240×8 mm at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The car featured electric power steering with a rack and pinion system, offering light and precise control, particularly beneficial for urban driving and parking maneuvers, with a minimum turning circle of 10.7 to 11.3 meters (35.1 to 37.07 feet). Standard tire sizes included 185/60 R15 or 195/50 R16, mounted on 6J x 15 or 6.5J x 16 wheel rims, respectively.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact

The Renault Clio III, and particularly its Phase II iteration from 2009, cemented the model’s reputation as a formidable contender in the highly competitive European supermini segment. Competing directly with stalwarts like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Peugeot 207, and Opel Corsa, the Clio III stood out for its distinctive styling, comfortable cabin, and, crucially, its range of efficient powertrains, with the 1.5 dCi diesel being a particular highlight.

In its primary European markets, the Clio III was a sales success, frequently appearing at the top of national sales charts. Its appeal lay in its ability to blend practicality with an engaging driving experience. The 1.5 dCi engine, in particular, was instrumental in its success, offering a compelling proposition of low running costs, impressive range from its 55-liter (14.53 US gallon) fuel tank, and reduced environmental impact, which resonated strongly with European consumers facing rising fuel prices and stricter emission regulations.

The Renault Clio III (Phase II, 2009) 3-door 1.5 dCi (105 Hp) represented Renault’s commitment to delivering advanced diesel technology in an accessible package. Its reliability and durability were generally well-regarded, contributing to strong resale values for its class. The model also received critical acclaim for its safety features, building on the Clio II’s pioneering five-star Euro NCAP rating. While not a high-performance variant, the 105 HP dCi offered a spirited driving experience for a diesel supermini, making it a popular choice for both urban commuters and those undertaking longer journeys. The Clio III’s production run from 2005 to 2012, with the Phase II facelift extending from 2009 to 2012, demonstrated its enduring popularity before being succeeded by the equally successful Clio IV. Its legacy is one of a well-rounded, efficient, and stylish compact car that successfully navigated the demands of a discerning European market.