Renault Clio Grand Tour concept (2007) CAR review

It’s called the Grand Tour but it looks just like a Clio Estate to me…

Well spotted - that’s exactly what this is. It's simply the concept version that was built for the Geneva Motor Show 2007 as a preview to the Estate. Renault is revealing a proper roadgoing version at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September. The car we’ve driven was built to show what a supermini estate could look like. Renault is aware that up until now this category of car hasn’t exactly enjoyed the youngest of clientele - and it wants to change that with a supposedly funkier take on the mini wagon sector. A sector that's being restimulated by this autumn's newest and hippest fashion accessory, the Mini Clubman. Does Renault's effort work? Read our first drive to find out.

Don’t tell me. Renault wants this car to appeal to young buyers with an active lifestyle!

Got it in one. It’s chasing the Holy Grail for motor makers. It thinks if it gives its version of the supermini estate a bit of style – I expect their marketing sorts would say va va voom – rather than just sticking a big boot on the back, it’ll sweep up buyers who want some practicality without resorting to a Peugeot 207 SW or Skoda Fabia Combi. So it’s no accident that this car is based on the Clio Renaultsport 197. That’s why it’s got a slightly wider track and meaner stance than regular Clios.