I can definately recommend it as I recently traded in my 1.2 'T' plate clio for a 172, my advice would be to shop around for a 172 first. i picked up an 02 plate with 37k miles on it, 2yrs warranty for £6,200. Do your research and always see the car before you buy. Try independant dealers too rather than just Renault dealers and don't forget that the dealer is always gonna be more desperate to sell you the car than you will be to buy it so haggle, haggle, haggle.
Basically do your research and you will be able to find the right car at the right price.
definately do it though i have a smile on my face everyday when i drive mine!!!!