Renault Clio III (Phase II ) 3-door 1.6 16V (112 Hp) Automatic

Renault Clio III (Phase II, 2009) 3-door 1.6 16V (112 Hp) Automatic: A European Supermini Standard-Bearer

The Renault Clio III (Phase II, 2009) 3-door 1.6 16V (112 Hp) Automatic represents a significant iteration of Renault’s highly successful Clio supermini, a staple in the European automotive landscape since its inception in 1990. This particular model, part of the third generation’s mid-cycle refresh (Phase II), was produced from May 2009 to October 2010. Positioned in the highly competitive B-segment, the Clio III was lauded for its maturity, sophisticated ride quality, and robust safety features, elevating it beyond the typical small car expectations of its time. While never officially sold in the United States, the Clio series has consistently been one of Europe’s best-selling vehicles, embodying French design flair and practical engineering for urban and suburban environments. This 3-door hatchback variant, equipped with the 1.6-liter 16-valve engine and an automatic transmission, offered a blend of zesty performance and ease of driving, making it a popular choice for a wide range of consumers across the continent.

Engine & Performance: The K4M 801 Powertrain in the Renault Clio III (Phase II, 2009) 3-door 1.6 16V (112 Hp) Automatic

At the heart of this particular Renault Clio III (Phase II) model lies the venerable K4M 801 engine, a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter (1598 cm³ or 97.52 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder unit. This powerplant, known for its reliability and widespread use across various Renault and Dacia models, features a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with 4 valves per cylinder, totaling 16 valves. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port manifold injection system, ensuring efficient combustion.

The engine generates a respectable 112 horsepower at 6000 rpm, translating to a power-per-liter output of 70.1 HP/l, which was quite competitive for its segment in 2009. Peak torque is 151 Nm (111.37 lb.-ft.) delivered at 4250 rpm, providing adequate pulling power for city driving and highway cruising. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 4-speed automatic transmission, a common configuration for convenience-oriented small cars of that era. While a 4-speed automatic might seem dated by today’s standards, it offered smooth shifts and reduced driver fatigue in congested European traffic.

Performance figures for the Clio III 1.6 16V Automatic include an acceleration time from 0 to 60 mph in a calculated 11.6 seconds (0-100 km/h in 12.2 seconds), and a maximum speed of 115.58 mph (186 km/h). These figures demonstrate that the car was designed more for practical everyday use than outright speed. Fuel economy, according to the NEDC cycle, was rated at a combined 31.4 US mpg (7.5 l/100 km), with urban consumption at 23.5 US mpg (10 l/100 km) and extra-urban at 38.6 US mpg (6.1 l/100 km). CO2 emissions stood at 179 g/km, adhering to the Euro 4 emission standard, which was the prevailing benchmark at the time of its production.

Design & Features of the Clio III Phase II

The Clio III, particularly in its Phase II iteration, presented a more refined and mature aesthetic compared to its predecessors. The 3-door hatchback body offered a sporty profile, blending compact dimensions with a surprisingly spacious interior for its class. Measuring 158.74 inches (4032 mm) in length, 67.72 inches (1720 mm) in width (79.72 inches or 2025 mm including mirrors), and 58.94 inches (1497 mm) in height, the Clio III struck a balance between maneuverability and presence.

The Phase II facelift introduced subtle but effective changes, including redesigned headlights, a revised front bumper, and updated taillights, giving it a fresher and more contemporary look. The interior benefited from improved materials and ergonomics, reflecting Renault’s commitment to enhancing perceived quality. Seating for five was standard, though the 3-door configuration made rear access less convenient than the 5-door variant. Cargo capacity was practical for a supermini, offering 10.17 cubic feet (288 liters) with the rear seats up, expanding significantly to 36.66 cubic feet (1038 liters) when the rear seats were folded down.

Safety was a strong suit for the Clio III, which had earned a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. Standard safety features for this era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and multiple airbags. The chassis featured an independent MacPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, paired with a torsion beam rear suspension with coil springs, providing a comfortable yet composed ride. Braking was handled by ventilated discs at the front (260×22 mm) and solid discs at the rear (240×8 mm). Electric power steering, a rack and pinion system, offered light and responsive handling, ideal for urban driving. The car typically rode on 185/60 R15 or 195/50 R16 tires, depending on the trim level, mounted on 15 or 16-inch wheel rims.

Technical Specifications

Legacy & Market Impact: The Renault Clio III (Phase II, 2009) 3-door 1.6 16V (112 Hp) Automatic in its Segment

The Renault Clio series, and specifically the third generation, holds a significant place in the European automotive market. It consistently ranked among the best-selling cars in its segment, challenging strong rivals like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Peugeot 207, and Opel/Vauxhall Corsa. The Clio III was particularly praised for its elevated sense of quality and refinement, a considerable step up from its predecessors. It garnered the prestigious European Car of the Year award in 2006, a testament to its well-rounded package.

The Phase II update in 2009, which included this Renault Clio III (Phase II, 2009) 3-door 1.6 16V (112 Hp) Automatic model, helped maintain its competitive edge against newer entrants. Its reputation was built on a foundation of robust safety (a 5-star Euro NCAP rating was a major selling point), comfortable ride quality, and practical interior packaging. The 1.6-liter engine, combined with the automatic transmission, appealed to buyers seeking a capable and easy-to-drive vehicle for daily commutes and longer journeys alike, particularly in urban areas where automatic transmissions are highly valued for convenience.

While the Clio III was never offered in the American market, its influence on global small car design and engineering is undeniable. It demonstrated that a compact car could offer premium features, high safety standards, and engaging driving dynamics without compromising on practicality or affordability. Its success solidified Renault’s position as a leader in the supermini segment and paved the way for future generations of the Clio, which continue to be popular across Europe. The 2009 Phase II model, with its blend of style, performance, and practicality, remains a strong representation of European automotive engineering from its era.