RENAULT'S Clio supermini has been given front end surgery and a new engine to keep it going until the new model makes its debut in 1998 - but prices in many cases have been cut. There's a new 1.2 litre engine, extra equipment, new trim, a strengthened shell and improved refinement. Sales in the UK topped 50,000 units last year.

The RN for example gains a glass tilt/slide sunroof, colour-keyed bumpers and a driver's airbag at no extra cost, while the diesel engined version gets the higher specification and a £150 price cut. RT models feature an electric sunroof and new engine immobiliser. The car gets a new bonnet, revised grille and rounder headlamps.

The 1.2 litre engine is the first of a new family, offering 10% more torque and 20% less weight than the old 1.2 unit. Fuel figures are: 61.4 mpg at 56 mph; 45.6 mpg at 75 mph and 40.9 mpg on the urban cycle. With 60 bhp the car has a top speed of 100 mph and a 0-62 mph time of 13.5 seconds. Brakes have a better feel and ABS joins the option list across the range.

Prices are: RL 1.2 3 dr, £7,490; 5 dr, £7,940; 1.9 Diesel 3 dr, £8,075; Diesel 5 dr, £8,525. RN 1.2 3 dr, £9,005; 5 dr, £9,455; 1.9 Diesel 5 dr, £9,805. RT 1.4 3 dr, £10,245; 5 dr, £19,695; 1.9 Diesel 5 dr, £10,695. RSi 1.8 3 dr, £12,160; Baccara 1.8 Auto 5 dr, £14,750.