Introduction: The Renault Clio’s Big Leap
The Renault Clio is not just a popular supermini—it is an automotive icon that has dominated European roads for decades. Now, 35 years after its debut, Renault unveils the sixth-generation Clio featuring dramatic styling shifts, enhanced practicality, advanced technology, and stronger safety profiles. With nearly 17 million units sold globally since 1990, the Clio’s legacy is set to continue, promising even greater appeal for families, first-time buyers, and city commuters alike.
Design Evolution: New Silhouette, Modern Aesthetics
Exterior Upgrades
The latest Renault Clio receives a bold exterior makeover. A reshaped bonnet, assertive front grille, and revised headlight signature establish a distinctive road presence. Entry-level variants feature matte black wheel arches, while higher trims get shiny black details and blue Renault emblems. Alloy wheels are offered in sizes between 16 and 18 inches, complemented by two designs for each wheel size—catering to a wide array of tastes.
Seven paint options—including newly introduced vibrant red and lush green—grant buyers more ways to personalize their Clio’s look. At the rear, flush door handles and a pinched window design combine with a sloping roofline, presenting a coupe-like silhouette while retaining five-door practicality.
Dimensions and Practicality
The sixth-generation Clio is slightly longer, wider, and taller, yet still built on the familiar CMFB platform with key updates. These subtle changes enhance passenger comfort without sacrificing agility. The car’s overall length stands at 4050 mm, width at 1800 mm, and height at 1440 mm—making it competitive within the B-segment.
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Interior Comfort: Stylish, Tech-Rich, and Spacious
Cabin Reconfiguration
Step inside, and the new Clio greets occupants with a refreshed dashboard, updated steering wheel, and gear selector repositioned on the steering column for improved space efficiency—especially in automatic models. Premium trims showcase Alcantara accents, while others use robust fabric coverings, ensuring premium ambiance across the range.
Digital Features
Front and center are dual screens on higher trims—a 10-inch driver display and a central touchscreen with integrated Google Maps and Google Assistant, supporting both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Entry-level models offer a 7-inch driver display and wired smartphone mirroring. Wireless phone charging and ambient lighting options are available, lending a futuristic touch to the cabin.
Passenger and Storage Space
Despite the sportier roofline, Renault claims no loss of rear headroom, making the Clio suitable for adults of average height and ideal for children. The rear seats offer modest improvements in legroom, and boot space remains a generous 391 liters—outclassing many rivals, including the larger VW Golf. Hybrid variants see a reduced boot space (309 liters) to accommodate battery packs, but the petrol Clio maintains best-in-class volume.
A 60/40 split-folding system allows flexible cargo arrangements, and an improved (lowered) loading lip eases heavy lifting, addressing past user feedback directly.
Powertrains and Performance: Efficient, Punchy, and Safe
Engine Choices
Buyers can choose between two well-refined powertrains:
- TCe 115 Petrol: 1.2L turbocharged engine delivering up to 130HP and 240Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic. This new engine supersedes the outgoing TCe 90, offering increased power and is two seconds quicker to 0–62 mph.
- E-Tech Hybrid 160: 1.6L hybrid system produces 145HP to 160HP depending on tuning, with an official CO2 emission figure of just 89g/km and impressive fuel economy approaching 72 mpg. The hybrid setup carries over from the Symbioz and Captur, ensuring proven efficiency and reliability. However, Clio will not offer a plug-in hybrid or fully electric version—buyers looking for an EV should consider the upcoming Renault 5.
Ride, Handling, and Safety
With McPherson strut front suspension and tube shocks with leaf springs at the rear, the Clio blends sporty handling with comfort, supported by electric power-assisted steering and solid disc brakes all around.
Safety technology sets new standards, with six airbags, ABS, traction control, lane keep assist, blind spot detection, and advanced autonomous emergency braking standard on most models. Adaptive cruise control, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and active emergency braking (pedestrian/cyclist alert) put the Clio at the forefront of small car safety.
Trim Levels and Features: Something for All Buyers
Range Overview
The Clio’s trim lineup caters to diverse needs:
- Evolution (entry-level): Includes matte black detailing, wired smartphone integration, and essential safety equipment.
- Techno (mid-spec): Adds chrome highlights, larger wheels, enhanced interior materials, and more digital connectivity options.
- Espree Alpine (range-topper): Alcantara dashboard, blue emblems, dual 10-inch screens, wireless integration, and sporty exterior flourishes for a distinctly premium feel.
Across all trims, equipment levels are generous, with climate control, split folding seats, and numerous comfort/convenience features offered as standard or optional.
Colors and Customization
Seven exterior paint options, customizable interior lighting (MULTI-SENSE ambient system), and alloy designs allow customers to express their style freely. Leather upholstery, heated seats, and steering wheel options further elevate the cabin experience in higher trims.
Real-World Practicality: Living with the Clio
Day-to-Day Usability
Owners will appreciate the accessible new boot release placed directly on the boot lid—no more struggling with a dirty lower bumper latch. Ample cabin storage includes door bins, a central cubby, and under-console trays, with wireless charging and power outlets on select trims.
Visibility remains strong for all passengers, although the pinched rear windows and sloping roof line mean a slight reduction in natural light compared to the prior model. Rear headroom is sufficient for most adults and perfect for children, with added ISOFIX mounting points for child seats.
Fuel Economy and Costs
Petrol Clio variants average 19 km/l ARAI (city figures closer to 15 km/l), while the hybrid promises up to 72 mpg under ideal conditions—real-world mileage will vary by driving patterns and climate. Maintenance costs are predicted to be competitive, and Renault’s reliability record for recent small cars remains strong.
Technology and Infotainment: For the Connected Driver
Infotainment Suite
The Clio’s EASY LINK system delivers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with voice control for safe smartphone use. Google features are natively integrated in higher trims, providing seamless navigation, music, and assistance. Climate control, digital driver displays, and customizable ambient lighting ensure a comfortable, modern drive.
Convenience Systems
Automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, electronic handbrake, adaptive cruise, and advanced parking assistance systems—including rear view and 360-degree cameras—are available depending on trim. Tire pressure monitoring and lane departure warning help bolster everyday safety.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the new Renault Clio hybrid more spacious than the petrol?
- The hybrid Clio’s boot is smaller (309 liters) than petrol (391 liters) due to battery packaging, but overall cabin space remains unchanged.
What engines are likely to be available?
- Two engines: TCe 115 turbo petrol (130HP) and E-Tech hybrid (145HP–160HP) for the sixth generation. No plug-in hybrid or electric option for Clio; consider Renault 5 EV instead.
What key safety features set the Clio apart?
- Six airbags, ISOFIX, lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitor are either standard or optional, giving Clio segment-leading safety.
Are there options for premium features?
- Yes. Espree Alpine trim introduces Alcantara, ambient lights, wireless charging, dual 10-inch screens, and more. Mid and base trims are well-equipped but less plush.
How does pricing compare to previous models?
- Expected to be similar to the outgoing Clio, with a modest increase anticipated at launch due to new features and design upgrades. Three trims (Evolution, Techno, Espree Alpine) help control costs and maximize value.
Are the driving dynamics improved?
- Both engines offer more power and quicker acceleration; revised suspension and steering provide a refined, balanced ride for city and highway use.
Conclusion: The Renault Clio Remains a Supermini Leader
With bolder design, significant technological advancements, increased practicality, and uncompromised safety, the new Renault Clio is set to further cement its position as a European favorite. Its dynamic styling, flexible engine choices, and generous equipment across trims make it ideal for a broad range of buyers—from young professionals to families in need of fuss-free urban mobility.
Renault’s sixth-generation Clio demonstrates why small hatchbacks remain relevant in a changing market. While rivals depart the segment, the Clio continues to innovate and delight, carrying its three-decade reputation into the future with absolute confidence.
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