the way i see it, whilst the clio is the most dynamic in its class, the others(cupra/vRS/polo GTI) wont be too far behind. Nothing that a few choice mods would sort out. then when you bring in the running costs, the VAT free offer and the build quality etc its a no brainer to me.
Add a good rear anti roll bar (lots on the market already as the rear beam is identical to the mk4 ibiza cupra), some eibach springs(whichare skoda approved) and a stage 1 REVO+ intake(215-220hp) for less than £750 you have made a good car a very good car, which could potentially hold its own with the clio(maybe not the cup etc). maybe some poly bushes to give some more feel to the steering could help.
Even with all these mods, it still works out cheaper to buy and mod than to just buy the clio. I like the underdog