Renault has undergone a significant facelift for its small car, the Clio, both inside and out. The latest generation of the Clio, which was introduced in 2019, has been updated to enhance its appeal and ensure its relevance in the market.
The refreshed Clio showcases a new design language for Renault, which may take some time for customers to get accustomed to. The iconic centrally placed rhombus logo remains a prominent feature but now appears in a new layout with double lines. The radiator grille surrounding the logo has been expanded and is divided by a clip that runs along the hood.
Additionally, a unique X-shaped clip is introduced in the Techno and Esprit Alpine versions, marking the transition to lower air intake. In the Esprit Alpine variant, both clips are gray, while in other versions, they match the body color. The headlights now feature slimmer designs with angled LED cascades, replacing the integrated daytime running lights.
The rear view of the Clio has also been refreshed, featuring crystal-clear taillights with new graphics and the updated logo placed centrally along with the Clio lettering on the tailgate. The lower part of the rear bumper showcases new contours and simulated air outlets. Depending on the specific variant, the presence or absence of visible exhaust tailpipes may vary. The side profile of the Clio remains unchanged, including its dimensions, except for the Alpine version, which sports additional Alpine logos on the front fenders.
Completing the new look are fresh exterior colors and redesigned alloy wheel options, available in 16 and 17-inch diameters.
Inside the cabin, Renault has focused on sustainability and higher-quality materials. The Clio now features surface materials made from sustainably produced fabric, replacing leather. The surfaces are covered with TEP, a grained, coated fabric composed of organic and polyester fibers.
Air vents have been redesigned, and the steering wheel showcases the new Renault logo. The seats have been upgraded for improved comfort, with the Esprit Alpine version featuring a sporty design. Additional enhancements include the possibility of having embroidered tricolor accents on the dashboard, red, white, and blue double topstitching on various components, aluminum pedals, and special door sills.
The infotainment system features Alpine graphics and consists of digital instruments (7 or 10 inches) and a central touchscreen (7 or 9.3 inches), offering various infotainment options. Wireless connectivity for smartphones is provided through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Furthermore, the Clio boasts an extensive range of 20 driving assistance systems.
The Clio retains its existing range of powertrains, which include petrol, diesel, LPG (liquefied petroleum gas), and hybrid options. The hybrid version, called E-Tech, combines a 94-horsepower 1.6-liter petrol engine, a 36-kilowatt electric motor, an 18-kilowatt starter generator, a 1.2-kilowatt-hour battery, and an automatic transmission, resulting in a combined output of 145 horsepower.
The familiar LPG petrol engine delivers up to 100 horsepower and 170 Nm of torque from a three-cylinder, one-liter displacement engine. The entry-level engine remains the SCe 65 petrol engine, producing 65 horsepower and 95 Nm of torque from a naturally aspirated three-cylinder one-liter engine paired with a five-speed gearbox.
Above that, the TCe 90 three-cylinder turbo petrol engine generates 90 horsepower and 160 Nm of torque, coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox. The only diesel option available is the dCi 100, delivering 100 horsepower and 260 Nm of torque through a six-speed gearbox to the front wheels. The TCe 140 turbo petrol engine has been discontinued.
Renault has not yet disclosed pricing details for the new Clio, but it will be available for ordering starting in June. The current Clio is offered in four equipment variants, with prices starting at 18,250 euros. The RS Line variant will be replaced by the Esprit Alpine equipment in the future.
While many automakers are streamlining their small car offerings, Renault remains committed to the Clio and has given its best-selling model a comprehensive facelift. The focus of the update is primarily on the exterior redesign, while the technological aspects have remained largely unchanged. This means that customers can still choose from petrol, hybrid, and diesel powertrain options to suit their preferences.