It's a french hot hatch so i wouldnt call it girly, i reckon its aimed more at younger men than anything, just like most hot hatches, especially the french ones, peugeot's, renault 5 etc.
People will perceive things the way they want to, id be inclined to say the cheaper model clios were aimed at the younger feminine market and the 4 doors at the young family, then they decided they needed something for the male petrolheads so released the 172/182.
If people think that those models are girly then take a look at their car, its more than likely slower and their comments will be bourne out of jealousy.