Think of Renault and the name Clio springs to mind. This small hatchback from the French carmaker is one of the most popular in its class in Europe and with the years passing it has grown up to be even more desirable. Yet it still remains chic and with a broad appeal - drivers of all ages enjoy taking the wheel of this little number.I can recall driving the first-generation model, and while it was fun to drive, there was a certain lack of packaging and build quality could have been better. Quite a contrast: my latest turn has been behind the wheel of a third-generation model, in five-door guise, and this time round it has an air of quality, yet it retains that fun-to-drive element.Renault's supermini is rather sophisticated and it boasts both style and performance. My choice was to drive a version with the engine in the comprehensive line-up that is destined to become a best-seller, the 1.4 16v 98 in Privilege trim. I had better make clear that the trim levels amount to five, the other four being Authentique, Expression, Dynamique and range-topping Initiale.I was somewhat surprised to learn that this engine is proving most popular, putting the diesels in the shade. With a power output of 98bhp, it can whisk you from rest to 62mph in just over eleven seconds - not outstanding, but nevertheless useful. Further good news comes in the form of economy; the top side of 40mpg should be easy to attain on a regular basis.With a smooth-changing five-speed manual transmission, power delivery is satisfying throughout the gears and this member of the Clio family does like being pressed on. However, power is not enough. The performance cocktail must contain other key ingredients, such as handling and braking.The third-generation Clio is based on the B platform, the outcome of co-operation between Renault and Nissan. The suspension has been largely borrowed from Megane II and with a long wheelbase, wide track and low centre of gravity, even the most demanding of corners can be encountered with confidence.Braking matches the performance by using Generation 8 Bosch ABS with EBD and EBA. If I have a criticism, then it rests with the steering; all versions have variable power assistance, and for me it lacks feel.According to Renault, the Clio with five doors is currently proving as popular as the three-door version launched last autumn. Could it be that with people downsizing, and the fact that this latest Clio has a certain "big car" feel plus excellent equipment levels, it is gaining a new set of customers? Or is it simply that a five-door car is more versatile than a three-door?One thought did cross my mind: with the arrival of the Modus on the scene, was there a need for a Clio with five doors? Yes, the Modus is arguably more versatile and it offers more space, but I suspect that the Clio styling is more appealing for most and the real reason for the car is that those who often carry rear-seat passengers simply need extra doors.Once inside the spacious cabin, quality of finish says hello; the soft-touch charcoal dashboard is inviting and good interior design has resulted in well-placed controls and familiar easy-to-read Renault instrumentation.Privilege trim is on top of Dynamique and boasts air-conditioning, automatic headlamps and wipers, electric rear windows, front foglights, useful seat lumbar adjustment and an adjustable front passenger seat. I was able to feel comfortable and at ease right away.Renowned for safety, Clio III is just one of eight Renault models that have been awarded five stars for adult occupant protection in Euro NCAP crash testing. Most five-door models have six airbags as standard, including curtain airbags and there are ISOFIX mounting points on front passenger seat and outer rear seats.The Clio has lots of storage areas, including high volume in the door pockets and glove box, and there is a cupholder in the centre console. Boot space is adequate for a car in this class and added versatility comes courtesy of a 60:40 split/folding rear seat.Once again Renault has added further to its small-car line-up with the latest five-door Clios, whose clever packaging, good build quality and competitive pricing all make good sense. And I would be very content to drive any trim level with the 1.4-litre 16-valve engine. Engine 1390cc, 4 cylinders Power 98bhp Transmission 5-speed manual Fuel/CO2 42.8mpg / 158g/km Acceleration 0-62mph: 11.3 seconds Top speed 114mph Price £11,750 Details correct at publication date