Always an interesting debate. I seem to recall a Mazda 3 MPS achieving over 45mpg on some eco fuel challenge a year or so ago, it is possible believe me.
I've just come from an insignia bi turbo diesel and on a good run I could easily get 50mpg although when I played and enjoyed the power it was as low as 34mpg.
The clio 200t would easily be able to achieve its claim of 45mpg combined in the right conditions, it certainly won't do this being booted around town.
Luckily for me I'll be using it quite a bit on the motorway so should be able to build up the mpg.
Also, with boxes like the EDC, you have to learn to coast more and read the road better rather than using the go louder pedal too much.
In all my cars, all automatics, I've managed to beat the manufacturers claimed mpg by using the above driving styles.
The bottom line is, you have to enjoy your car, have a blast now and again, expect to pay for it and then balance the fun with a little common sense now and again??
