@ Renault Group Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Renault Clio vs VW Polo – Which one offers the better deal?

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Renault Clio or VW Polo?

Clio @ Renault Group Media

The Battle of Compact Hatchbacks: Renault Clio vs. VW Polo

In the competitive landscape of compact hatchbacks, two iconic models stand out: the Renault Clio and the VW Polo. Both cars offer a blend of practicality, efficiency, and performance, catering to a similar demographic of urban drivers. This article delves into a comprehensive comparison of these two vehicles, highlighting their technical specifications, innovations, and driving experiences.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Design and Dimensions

Starting with the aesthetics, both cars flaunt stylish designs that appeal to different tastes. The Renault Clio measures 4053 mm in length and 1798 mm in width, presenting a sporty and modern look. In contrast, the VW Polo is slightly longer at 4074 mm and narrower at 1751 mm, which gives it a more traditional hatchback profile.

In terms of height, the Clio stands at 1440 mm, while the Polo measures up to 1451 mm. This marginal difference affects the overall presence of both vehicles on the road, but both provide ample headroom for passengers.

Clio @ Renault Group Media

Powertrains: Options and Efficiency

The Renault Clio offers an impressive variety of powertrains, including Full Hybrid, Petrol, and LPG options. With power outputs ranging from 67 HP to 143 HP, drivers can choose a configuration that best suits their needs. The automatic gearbox also enhances driving comfort, especially in urban settings.

On the other hand, the VW Polo's engine lineup consists solely of petrol variants, offering power from 80 HP to a jaw-dropping 207 HP in the sporty GTI version. The Polo's engines are known for their smooth delivery and efficiency, with fuel consumption ranging from 5.2 to 6.5 L/100km.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Performance: Acceleration and Handling

When it comes to performance, the Clio excels with its hybrid variant achieving an acceleration of 0-100 km/h in just 9.3 seconds, making it a quick contender in the segment. The Polo GTI, however, shows off its prowess with a blistering time of 6.5 seconds, underscoring its focus on speed and agility.

Handling dynamics are noteworthy in both models, with the Clio offering a comfortable ride and responsive steering. The Polo, known for its planted feel, provides excellent cornering capabilities and stability, especially at higher speeds.

Clio @ Renault Group Media

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside the cabin, the Renault Clio boasts a modern and tech-savvy environment with a generous trunk capacity of 301 liters, perfect for everyday needs. Its infotainment system includes a touchscreen interface, USB connectivity, and various driver assistance features. The interior space is well-utilized and comfortable for up to five occupants.

The VW Polo, with a slightly larger trunk capacity of 351 liters, also impresses with its premium interior quality and layout. Equipped with the latest infotainment technology and smart features, the Polo offers an intuitive experience that rivals its competitors.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Safety and Environmental Impact

Both the Clio and Polo prioritize safety, incorporating advanced technology to enhance the driving experience. The Clio is rated with CO2 emissions ranging from 97 to 130 g/km, falling into the C and D efficiency classes, while the Polo’s emissions are between 118 and 149 g/km, with D and E ratings. Both vehicles are designed to meet European standards, ensuring a reduced environmental impact.

Conclusion: Which to Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between the Renault Clio and VW Polo boils down to personal preference. The Clio offers a versatile range of engines and a comfortable ride, making it ideal for daily commuting. In contrast, the Polo excels in performance with its sporty variants and delivers a high-quality interior experience. Prospective buyers should consider their driving habits and priorities to make the best choice between these two standout hatchbacks.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Renault Clio has a minimal advantage in terms of price – it starts at 16600 £, while the VW Polo costs 17000 £. That’s a price difference of around 416 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Renault Clio manages with 4.10 L and is therefore noticeable more efficient than the VW Polo with 5.10 L. The difference is about 1 L per 100 km.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the VW Polo has a clearly perceptible edge – offering 207 HP compared to 158 HP. That’s roughly 49 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Polo is distinct quicker – completing the sprint in 6.50 s, while the Renault Clio takes 8.30 s. That’s about 1.80 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Polo performs distinct better – reaching 240 km/h, while the Renault Clio tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 60 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: VW Polo pulls noticeable stronger with 320 Nm compared to 205 Nm. That’s about 115 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Renault Clio is slight lighter – 1124 kg compared to 1143 kg. The difference is around 19 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Renault Clio offers slightly more room – 391 L compared to 351 L. That’s a difference of about 40 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Renault Clio performs minimal better – up to 1176 L, which is about 51 L more than the VW Polo.

When it comes to payload, Renault Clio hardly perceptible takes the win – 463 kg compared to 457 kg. That’s a difference of about 6 kg.

Who wins the race?

The VW Polo proves to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
VW Polo is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £17,000
Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

VW Polo

  • Engine Type : Petrol
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 80 - 207 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 5.1 - 6.5 L
details

Renault Clio

The Clio punches above its weight with chic French styling and a surprisingly grown-up cabin that makes city driving feel effortlessly stylish. It's an easy-to-live-with choice that keeps ownership simple and even manages to put a grin on your face when the traffic gets dull.

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r212202p @ Renault Group Media
r212188p @ Renault Group Media
r212211p @ Renault Group Media

VW Polo

The Polo is a small car with surprisingly grown-up refinement, delivering comfortable packaging, crisp handling and a build quality that punches above its class. For buyers who want a practical, fuss-free hatch that still feels a little premium, it’s a sensible, slightly cheeky choice you’ll enjoy every day.

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DB2021AU00726_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00728_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00732_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00735_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00736_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00741_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

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Costs and Consumption
Price
16600 - 23700 £
Price
17000 - 30400 £
Consumption L/100km
4.1 - 5.3 L
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
0.60 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
92 - 121 g/km
co2
116 - 148 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
39 - 42 L
Fuel tank capacity
40 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1124 - 1331 kg
Curb weight
1143 - 1378 kg
Trunk capacity
301 - 391 L
Trunk capacity
351 L
Length
4053 - 4116 mm
Length
4074 mm
Width
1768 - 1798 mm
Width
1751 mm
Height
1440 - 1451 mm
Height
1431 - 1451 mm
Max trunk capacity
979 - 1176 L
Max trunk capacity
1125 L
Payload
398 - 463 kg
Payload
432 - 457 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Petrol
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox, Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
67 - 158 HP
Power HP
80 - 207 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.3 - 17.1 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 15.6 s
Max Speed
160 - 180 km/h
Max Speed
171 - 240 km/h
Torque
95 - 205 Nm
Torque
93 - 320 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
49 - 116 kW
Power kW
59 - 152 kW
Engine capacity
999 - 1789 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1984 cm3

General
Model Year
2023 - 2026
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
Renault
Brand
VW

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Is the Renault Clio offered with different drivetrains?

The Renault Clio is offered with Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.