Renault's New Clio Shines with Style and Power

A New Era for Renault Clio

Renault is making a strong push toward electrification, and while the R5 and R4 are generating a lot of buzz, along with the upcoming Twingo, the sixth-generation Clio remains the best-selling model in the brand's lineup. This makes the new Clio a crucial player in Renault’s strategy, especially as it prepares to hit showrooms early next year at a starting price of €19,900 ($23,300). Compared to the R5, the Clio is about 20% cheaper, offering an attractive alternative for those looking for a more affordable option.

Rather than following the retro trend that many other automakers have embraced, Renault has taken a bold step forward with the new Clio. The design is a complete departure from its predecessors, featuring a six-point grille with a mesh of diamond-shaped patterns that resemble the Renault logo. This front-end design has a subtle resemblance to Audi, giving the Clio a more modern and sophisticated look.

The muscular flanks and hidden door handles on the rear doors add to the sporty aesthetic. The rear end is particularly striking, with a crisp and dynamic design that suggests a touch of Alfa Romeo DNA. While the rectangular blocks of the rear lights might take some time to get used to, they contribute to the car’s overall eye-catching appeal.

Improved Dimensions and Practicality

The new Clio has grown slightly in size, measuring 4.12 meters in length and featuring a wheelbase of 2.56 meters. However, these changes aren’t enough to make the Clio particularly spacious. Many of its electric competitors benefit from a flat skateboard architecture, which allows for more interior room.

Despite this, both the driver and passengers can enjoy comfortable seating, and the luggage capacity ranges from 301 to 1,094 liters. This is sufficient for regular family trips and outings. Additionally, the loading lip is now 4 cm lower than before, making it easier to load and unload cargo.

A Digital Cockpit for the Modern Driver

Inside, the Clio follows the trend set by new electric models. Driven by cost pressures and the demand for digitalization, the cockpit features a dashboard that would feel out of place in the R5, but this isn't necessarily a bad thing. There may be a few too many levers around the steering wheel, but the digital instruments are reliable, and the touchscreen next to them is one of the best in its class thanks to the intuitive Google software.

Standard across all variants is a 10.1-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment system running on the Android Automotive operating system. This gives drivers access to Google’s app store, maps, and other services, making the Clio a competitive choice against models like the Opel Corsa and VW Polo.

Hybrid Powertrain for a Balanced Approach

While the Clio’s design and digital features are forward-thinking, the powertrain remains relatively conservative. Renault is relying on the R4 and R5 to attract electric vehicle buyers, leaving the Clio to those who prefer a more balanced approach. The diesel engine has been eliminated, along with manual transmission options. The base model comes with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 85 kW/115 hp, while higher trims offer a hybrid option.

The hybrid system combines a 1.8-liter engine (80 kW/109 hp) with an electric motor in the automatic transmission, an electric starter generator, and a 1.4 kWh buffer battery. This setup delivers a system output of 118 kW/160 hp and a top speed of 180 km/h. In city traffic, the Clio can operate almost entirely on electric power, thanks to energy recovery during braking. This allows it to cover up to 80% of urban journeys without using fuel.

The fuel consumption of 3.9 liters per 100 km results in a calculated range of 1,000 kilometers. The Clio offers 15 different drive combinations, which are automatically selected or activated with the touch of a button. Whether in E-mode, as a combustion engine, or with combined power, the Clio remains agile and playful in city traffic.

Performance Beyond the City

Beyond the city limits, the Clio drives calmly and maturely, with a comfortable suspension and precise steering. The continuously variable automatic transmission is surprisingly smooth, with gear ratios that never seem out of place. This makes the driving experience enjoyable and effortless.

Key Specifications

• Motor and Drive: Four-cylinder petrol engine and twin electric motors
• Capacity: 1.789 cc
• Max Power: 118 kW/160 hp
• Max Torque: 270 Nm
• Drive: Front-wheel-drive
• Transmission: Seamless automatic
• Length: 4116 m
• Width: 2006 m
• Height: 1768 m
• Wheelbase: 2591 m
• Kerb Weight: 1,316 kg
• Payload: 454 kg
• Luggage Capacity: 301-1,094 litres
• Top Speed: 180 km/h
• 0-100 km/h: 8.3 s
• Average Consumption: From 3.9 liters /100 km
• Range: 1,000 km
• CO2 Emissions: From 89 g/km

Pricing and Features

• Entry-Level Renault Clio: 19,900 euros
• Renault Clio Full Hybrid E-Tech 160: 24,200 euros

Key Equipment: - Safety: Six airbags, cruise control, electric parking brake
- Comfort: Air-conditioning, electric windows all-round, central-locking, LED headlamps

As the electric revolution continues at a slower pace, the Clio’s combination of digital features and conventional yet efficient powertrains positions it well in the market. It offers a practical and appealing choice for drivers who are not ready to fully commit to electric vehicles.