Renault Clio 1.5 dCi

On the inside, the changes are noticeable too, with the high-quality cabin getting splashes of brushed aluminium trim on the door handles and air vents. Climate control and a quality CD stereo are standard. The Clio is well equipped, but at ΂£12,650, its price matches cars in the class above.
Annoyingly, you still have to pay ΂£250 for a keycard entry system and reach and rake-adjustable steering. The optional Comfort pack includes these plus a six-CD changer and an electric sunroof, but it costs a hefty ΂£850.

Take a drive and you'll be impressed, though. The 106bhp 1.5-litre diesel is refined, with punchy performance. It covers 0-60mph in 11.1 seconds and pulls strongly from low revs, thanks to peak torque of 240Nm - more than a 2.5-litre V6 petrol Ford Mondeo.

The new six-speed gearbox has a precise shift and well chosen ratios, so it's easy to keep the engine on the boil and cruise at motorway speeds. Fuel stops will be infrequent, too, with 61mpg economy. But it's not so great on twisty B-roads. The latest version of the Clio has put on a few pounds,and the 106bhp diesel is the heaviest model in the line-up. While there's plenty of stability and grip, the power- steering varies its feel during cornering and delivers little in the way of driver involvement. The petrol versions are much better in this respect.

Yet the biggest problem for the 106bhp dCi Dynamique S is not its petrol brothers or even the cars inthe class above, but the 86bhp dCi Dynamique model. This does without the styling changes to the exterior and a six-speed box, but it offers much better value for money. Barely any slower in the real world, it returns 64mpg and comes with air-conditioning. With a significantly lower price tag, it's the best diesel Clio currently on sale.