I am looking for a recommendation for a rental car for 9 days in Tuscany for four adults with carry on luggage. A friend suggested a Renault Cleo, but I'm skeptical based on pictures I've seen.
We had a VW Passat last trip which they upgraded for us without request. It is bigger than the VW Golf and was actually larger than we needed for the two of us. It should work fine for four with carry on luggage.
We've rented in Europe several times as a group of 4 adults with luggage. You're right, the Clio is WAY too small. One we like is the Opel Zafira, if it's available where you're renting.
We always rent through autoeurope.com. They're very helpful.
Considering the narrow streets, lack of parking and cost of gasoline (or diesel) I'd recommend renting the smallest vehicle you can get away with.
The Opel Zafira is a mini van seating 7 and can be hard to park. Great for 5 and up but for only 4 adults you can find alternatives.
We rented a Fiat Bravo when travelling through Italy. For the 4 of us it was just right: 3 adults, + 1 child + lots of luggage (my husband was at a conference and had extra equipment along) fit quite comfortably. In many places our vehicle was one of the biggest cars around! It's classified as a compact. A VW Golf would also be found in that class. I think that's one or two sizes up from the Clio.