The new Renault Clio optimizes its hybrid to reign in its segment

Renault unveiled the sixth generation of the Clio at the Munich Motor Show. This is one of its most iconic and successful models, with nearly 17 million units sold since its launch in 1990. Now, the French brand is opting for a refreshed design, more technology, and a powertrain offering focused on hybrid engines manufactured by its subsidiary Horse.

The new Clio arrives with a more modern and aggressive exterior design by Valencian designer Paula Fabregat. This is a first for Renault in this segment, which until now had maintained the model with smooth, rounded lines.

Inside, the car features recycled materials, a dual-screen display, and the Google-integrated multimedia system already featured in other Renault models. This is one of the key decisions made by former Renault CEO Luca de Meo to streamline development.

Although the aesthetic change is considerable and measures have been taken to keep the Clio's price down, the big news is the 160 hp hybrid engine. It's the same engine used in the Dacia Bigster, although tuned to deliver more power and more efficient management of the electric charge.

This results in less discharge, forcing the car to recharge using the engine less frequently, and a more comfortable operation than the Romanian brand.

The system combines a 1.8-liter gasoline engine with two electric motors and a clutchless gearbox, with two speeds for the zero-emission models and five for the combustion engine. The result is remarkable performance—acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds—and an average fuel consumption of 3.9 liters per 100 km, as well as reduced emissions of 89 grams.

In urban use, the Clio can travel up to 80% of the time in electric mode, achieving a combined range of up to 1,000 kilometers. The system allows 15 different combinations of combustion and electric propulsion, determined by the control unit to maximize efficiency.

In addition to the hybrid version, the Clio will be available in a range of powertrains to suit different customer profiles. The range starts with a 115 hp gasoline engine, available with a manual transmission or a dual-clutch automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. An LPG engine will be added later, also paired with the automatic transmission.

For Renault, the model remains a strategic pillar for its sales and profitability. "Renault is Clio. With each generation, it redefines the standards of its category. We've enhanced the design, the engine range, and brought Google on board," the brand emphasizes.

Orders for the Clio will open later this year, and although the brand hasn't confirmed pricing, Product Manager Nicolas Laruaz stated that "their goal is to maintain its residual value over time thanks to the inclusion of technologies from higher segments." That is, it will be more expensive than the current version, which starts at just under €20,000.