Renault Clio III (Phase I) 3-door 2.0 16V (139 Hp)

The Renault Clio III (Phase I) 3-door 2.0 16V (139 Hp): A European Subcompact Powerhouse

The Renault Clio III (Phase I) 3-door 2.0 16V (139 Hp) represents a compelling entry in the highly competitive European subcompact, or “supermini,” segment. Produced by the French automaker Renault between 2006 and 2009, this particular variant of the third-generation Clio offered a potent blend of spirited performance, practical design, and advanced features for its class. While never officially sold in the United States, the Clio line has consistently been one of Europe’s best-selling vehicles, celebrated for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and engaging driving dynamics. This 2.0-liter, 3-door hatchback model positioned itself as a sportier, more upscale choice for drivers seeking more power than the typical economy car, without venturing into the full-throttle hot hatch territory of its RS brethren. It was a testament to Renault’s ability to inject a dose of driving pleasure into an otherwise utilitarian segment.

Engine and Performance: The Heart of the Renault Clio III (Phase I) 3-door 2.0 16V (139 Hp)

At the core of this particular Clio III model was a robust 2.0-liter (1997 cm³ or 121.86 cu. in.) naturally aspirated inline-four engine, designated by Renault as the M4R 700. This 16-valve unit, featuring a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and multi-port manifold injection, delivered a respectable 139 horsepower at 6000 rpm. Torque output stood at 194 Nm, or 143.09 lb.-ft., available at a relatively accessible 3750 rpm, providing a broad powerband suitable for both city driving and highway cruising.

This powertrain, driving the front wheels through a precise 6-speed manual transmission, allowed the Clio to achieve impressive performance figures for its class. The 0 to 60 mph acceleration was clocked at a brisk 8.1 seconds, with the car capable of reaching a maximum speed of 124.27 mph (200 km/h). These numbers placed the 2.0 16V variant firmly among the sportier offerings in the subcompact segment, appealing to drivers who valued responsiveness and dynamic capability. Despite its performance aspirations, the engine also managed reasonable fuel economy for its displacement and era, with a combined NEDC cycle rating of 32.2 US mpg (7.3 l/100 km) and CO2 emissions of 173 g/km, meeting the Euro 4 emission standard. Its weight-to-power ratio of 8.5 kg/Hp (118.3 Hp/tonne) further underscored its agile character.

Design and Features: Practicality Meets European Flair

The Renault Clio III (Phase I) 3-door hatchback embodied a design philosophy that blended practicality with a distinctly European aesthetic. Measuring 156.93 inches (3986 mm) in length and 67.68 inches (1719 mm) in width, it presented a compact footprint ideal for navigating crowded urban environments. Despite its diminutive size, the Clio III offered a surprisingly spacious interior for five occupants, making it a versatile choice for small families or individuals. The 3-door configuration emphasized a sportier profile, appealing to younger buyers or those prioritizing style over rear-door convenience.

Inside, the Clio III was known for its comfortable cabin, featuring well-appointed materials and a logical control layout. Trunk space was practical, ranging from 10.17 cu. ft. (288 liters) with the rear seats up, expanding to a generous 36.3 cu. ft. (1028 liters) when folded, enhancing its utility for hauling cargo.

Underneath its stylish skin, the Clio III featured a sophisticated chassis for its segment. It employed an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar at the front, paired with a torsion beam and coil springs at the rear. This configuration provided a balanced ride, offering both comfort and agile handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs measuring 280 mm at the front and solid discs measuring 240 mm at the rear, augmented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The electric power steering system offered light effort at low speeds for easy maneuvering and firmer feedback at higher speeds, contributing to a confident driving experience. Standard 195/60 R16 tires on 6.5J x 16 wheels completed the package, ensuring adequate grip and stability.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact in the Clio III Era

The Renault Clio III (Phase I) 3-door 2.0 16V (139 Hp) played a significant role within the broader Clio lineup and the European subcompact segment. The third-generation Clio, launched in 2005, was a critical model for Renault, building on the immense success of its predecessors. It quickly garnered accolades, including the prestigious European Car of the Year award in 2006, a testament to its all-around excellence in design, safety, and driving dynamics.

This specific 2.0-liter variant carved out a niche for itself. While not a full-blown “hot hatch” like the more extreme Clio Renault Sport (RS) models, it offered a compelling blend of everyday usability with genuinely engaging performance. It appealed to buyers who desired more power and a more dynamic driving experience than typically found in the segment’s smaller-engined versions, without the higher cost, stiffer ride, and more aggressive styling of the dedicated performance variants. Its 3-door configuration further emphasized this sportier, more personal appeal.

In its primary European markets, the Clio III 2.0 16V competed against a strong field of rivals such as the Ford Fiesta (particularly the ST line), Volkswagen Polo, Peugeot 207, Opel Corsa, and Fiat Grande Punto. What set the Clio apart was its distinct French flair, a reputation for strong safety features (it was one of the first in its class to achieve a 5-star Euro NCAP rating), and a comfortable, refined ride that often belied its compact dimensions. The 2.0 16V model reinforced Renault’s heritage of producing fun-to-drive, well-engineered small cars.

Its legacy is one of a well-rounded and respected subcompact that offered a wide range of options, with the 2.0 16V standing out as a “warm hatch” that provided a satisfying driving experience for a broader audience. While it never graced American showrooms, its impact on the European automotive landscape was substantial, helping Renault maintain its strong position in one of the most competitive vehicle segments globally. It remains a popular choice on the used car market in Europe for those seeking a practical yet enjoyable compact car.