The Renault Clio II Phase II (2001-2003) 5-door 1.6 16V Automatic represents a significant offering within the second generation of Renault’s popular supermini. Introduced as part of the Phase II refresh, this variant combined a 1.6-liter, 16-valve gasoline engine producing 107 horsepower with a four-speed automatic transmission. Positioned as a mid-range option, it aimed to provide a balance of convenience and performance for buyers seeking an easy-to-drive, practical hatchback. The Clio II, built on the 1HX0/A3 platform, was a commercially successful vehicle for Renault, and this particular configuration catered to a segment of the market prioritizing comfort and ease of use over outright sporty driving dynamics.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Clio II 1.6 16V Automatic is the K4M engine, a 1598cc (97.52 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports just before the intake valves. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, operating four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high power output for its displacement. The compression ratio is set at 10:1. The K4M engine is known for its generally robust design, though it can be susceptible to oil consumption issues with age.
Paired with the K4M engine is a four-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while providing convenience, is a relatively older design compared to more modern automatic gearboxes. It features traditional hydraulic control and lacks the efficiency and responsiveness of later electronically controlled units. The gear ratios are tuned for comfortable cruising and adequate acceleration, but it doesn’t offer the sporty feel of a manual transmission or a more advanced automatic. The transmission’s durability is generally good with regular fluid changes, but it’s not known for being particularly sporty or quick-shifting.
Engine Specifications
Key engine specifications include a bore of 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) and a stroke of 80.5 mm (3.17 in.). The engine produces 107 hp at 5750 rpm and 148 Nm (109.16 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. This translates to a power-to-liter ratio of 67 hp/l. The engine requires 4.9 liters (5.18 US qt / 4.31 UK qt) of engine oil, specified to Renault standards, and 5.7 liters (6.02 US qt / 5.02 UK qt) of coolant.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the Clio II 1.6 16V Automatic is characterized by its smoothness and ease of operation. The automatic transmission eliminates the need for manual gear changes, making it ideal for urban driving and commuting. However, the four-speed gearbox limits the engine’s ability to stay in its optimal power band, resulting in slightly slower acceleration compared to the manual transmission versions. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 10.5 seconds, and the top speed is rated at 188 km/h (116.82 mph).
Compared to the lower-powered 1.4-liter versions, the 1.6 16V offers noticeably more responsive acceleration and a more relaxed driving experience, particularly when fully loaded or on inclines. However, it falls short of the performance offered by the sportier Clio variants, such as the Clio Renault Sport models. The automatic transmission does detract from the overall driving engagement, and the gear changes can sometimes feel hesitant or sluggish. The power delivery is relatively linear, with the peak torque available at a reasonably low engine speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Clio II 1.6 16V Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features for its time. These included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an AM/FM radio. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a relatively simple dashboard layout. Optional extras available for this trim level included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), which was becoming increasingly common on European vehicles during this period. The interior plastics, while durable, were not particularly luxurious, reflecting the car’s position as a mainstream, affordable hatchback.
Chassis & Braking
The Clio II 1.6 16V Automatic utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension system at the front, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension employs a semi-dependent beam with a stabilizer bar, which helps to reduce body roll during cornering. The front brakes are discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this class of vehicle. The hydraulic power steering provides light and easy steering, making it maneuverable in tight spaces. The 185/55 R15 tires mounted on 6J x 15 inch wheel rims contribute to a balanced ride and handling compromise.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Clio II 1.6 16V Automatic received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, ease of use, and relatively spacious interior. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for its lack of responsiveness and the limited number of gears. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for the time, with combined fuel consumption figures of around 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg / 38.2 UK mpg). Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered slightly lower fuel economy. In terms of reliability, the K4M engine is generally considered to be a durable unit, but the automatic transmission requires regular maintenance to prevent issues. Compared to other vehicles in its class, such as the Peugeot 206 and the Volkswagen Polo, the Clio II offered a competitive package in terms of price, features, and practicality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Clio |
| Generation | Clio II (Phase II, 2001) 5-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V (107 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg / 26.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg / 50.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg / 38.2 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 175 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp |
| Power | 107 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 3750 rpm (109.16 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K4M |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1065 kg (2347.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 255 l (9.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (maximum) | 1037 l (36.62 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
Legacy
The Renault Clio II 1.6 16V Automatic, while not the most exciting variant in the Clio II lineup, remains a reasonably popular choice in the used car market. The K4M engine is known for its durability, and with regular maintenance, it can provide many years of reliable service. The automatic transmission, however, is a potential weak point and should be inspected carefully before purchase. These cars are now typically found as affordable transportation, and their relatively simple mechanical design makes them relatively easy and inexpensive to repair. While not a collector’s item, the Clio II 1.6 16V Automatic represents a practical and comfortable option for those seeking a reliable and affordable hatchback.
