FOR an idea of why small Japanese hatchbacks outsell the European competition here, look no further than the Renault Clio.

The Clio III is the third-generation of the five-door mini from the French manufacturer. The model was launched three years ago but is only being made available in Singapore now.

Apart from the quirky styling, especially around the tail end of the car, the Clio is different from the Japanese hatches because of its more cossetting interior. Although the back seat has adequate space, it can by no stretch of the imagination be described as spacious. This may not be a problem for individualistic European buyers but most family-oriented locals in our market automatically look out for this cabin feature.

The driving experience fares a little better. As with all Euro hatches, the Clio displays a solidness not found in tinny Japanese alternatives. The Clio may be small but it is strong. As with other Renault models, it boasts the maximum five-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating.

But the aesthetics are a different matter. The Clio comes with a pair of column-mounted paddle shifters like you've never seen before. They stick up high like a pair of alien ears in the same grey plastic as the rest of the steering column housing. The intention is good but the execution is tragic. Fortunately, they can be avoided because the four-speed automatic transmission can also be manually shifted using the gear lever.

But don't overdo it because the engine can get noisy when revved a bit too hard. Like most French cars though, the ride is pleasant enough and the handling competent.

The best thing about the Clio though is that it comes with a high level of standard equipment. There is cruise control, rain sensors and automatic headlights. There is even a speed limiter which can be set so that the car does not exceed a pre-determined maximum speed. Good for not busting your clean driving record and perfect for preventing anyone who suddenly decides he wants to verify the veracity of the Clio's crash safety rating from doing so.

Renault Clio 1.6 (A)
Engine: 1,598cc
Gearbox: 4-speed automatic transmission
Max power: 111 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Max torque: 151 Nm @ 4,250 rpm
0-100 kmh: 12.2 secs
Top speed: 186 kmh
Price: $63,000 (with COE)
Distributor: Wearnes Automotive, Tel: 6471-3313

This article was first published in The Business Times on Jun 7, 2008.