Presentation of the New Generation
Although the retro-electric Renault 5 is the current European Car of the Year, it is the conventional Clio with an internal combustion engine that remains the sales leader in Europe. This model has now been updated to continue attracting buyers.
The sixth generation Clio debuted at the Munich Motor Show, showcasing a radically new design on the familiar CMF-B platform. Unlike the electric 5, the new Clio’s design remains modern, and Renault claims it is borrowed from the Emblème concept car.
Design Features
In profile and at the rear, influences from Ford, as well as some features from Mazda, can be noticed. The Fiesta-like front end might look somewhat overloaded and outdated; however, the coupe-like rear and hidden door handles make the car attractive from the back. Additionally, the lower luggage sill makes loading easier, although the trunk volume remains unchanged.
The overall length has increased by 67 mm (2.2 inches) to 4116 mm (162.1 inches), with the wheelbase growing by only 8 mm (0.3 inches). The new Clio is also slightly taller and wider, but don’t expect it to suddenly become like an SUV.
Premium Interior
The interior now resembles that of the electric 5 thanks to the unified digital instrument panel and infotainment system in the more expensive trims. The base version will likely retain a separate touchscreen similar to the previous model, although Renault has not yet released images of such an interior.
Both versions of the system are equipped with Google Maps navigation, Google Assistant voice helper, access to Google Play, as well as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The sporty Esprit Alpine trim adds wireless phone charging and Alcantara upholstery.
For those willing to spend even more, an optional 410-watt Harmon Kardon audio system is offered, developed in collaboration with the 1980s French synth legend Jean-Michel Jarre, which features five sound profiles.
Powertrain Options
Under the hood, the Clio offers the same options as its predecessor: at the start of sales, there will be no electric motor—for that, you’ll have to choose the Renault 5, although an electric version of the Clio is already planned. Currently available are petrol micro- and full hybrids, one of which functions primarily as an electric vehicle.
The 1.8-liter full E-Tech hybrid with 158 hp emits only 89 g/km of CO2 and operates on electricity 80% of the time in the city. It accelerates to 62 mph in 8.3 seconds, which is a second faster than the previous version with a 1.6-liter engine producing 143 hp.
In the UK, a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine with 113 hp in the TCe version is also available, which accelerates to 62 mph in 10.1 seconds—2 seconds faster than the old 89 hp engine. Unlike the full hybrid, this version comes with a manual transmission.
On other European markets, additional options are offered, including a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) for the TCe and a 118 hp three-cylinder Eco-G engine, which also has a DCT and can run on LPG (propane). Diesel engines, once popular, are no longer offered, but a sporty Alpine version is likely to appear in about a year.
Technology and Safety
Renault claims the Clio is equipped with numerous safety systems, including an emergency stop assistant that completely stops the car in case of driver inactivity, and adaptive cruise control borrowed from the electric 5. There is also a Safety Score function to assess driving style and a Safety Coach for advice.
Up to 29 ADAS systems are available in total, but there is a My Safety Switch button to the left of the steering wheel that allows up to five of them to be turned off simultaneously.
Sales Start
Sales of the sixth-generation Clio will begin later this year. In the UK, the Evolution, Techno, and Esprit Alpine trims will be available. Prices have not been announced yet, but they are likely to start from just under £20,000/€20,000, making the Clio somewhat more affordable than the more stylish Renault 5.
The Clio update demonstrates how Renault is trying to balance traditional technologies with new trends, offering efficient hybrid solutions and modern safety systems. This could keep the model competitive in the European market, especially among those not ready to fully switch to electric vehicles.