Tag Archives: Clio

Motorsport

The New Renault Captur Gets Esprit Alpine Trim, Loses Leather

Renault gave the Clio supermini a mid-cycle facelift a couple of yr in the past, so it is solely pure its crossover equal is receiving a nip and tuck as nicely. The 2024 Captur follows the most recent design language with hanging LED daytime operating lights and the restyled diamond brand. The total entrance fascia has been redesigned, which does not occur fairly often throughout a car’s shelf life.

There are fewer modifications on the rear the place the taillights have retained their “C” form however now have completely different graphics. Renault up to date its badge on the tailgate to suit the most recent company id, and it seems to be as if the pretend exhaust ideas at the moment are (fortunately) a factor of the previous. Hopefully, it’s an indication this annoying pattern is starting to die off.


News

Electric Renault Clio due as family-friendly 5 sibling

Ultimately, sources counsel, providing an electrical Clio alongside the 5 is extra about offering clients with larger selection than filling each hole within the line-up.

In any case, Renault bosses don’t see the 5 as a alternative for the Clio. Indeed, product efficiency boss Bruno Vanel has beforehand informed Autocar that “Clio is a brand in itself”, hinting on the significance of retaining the well-known identify for one more technology.

Renault Clio front quarter tracking

Renault is dedicated to holding prices down for its small electrical vehicles, so any electrical Clio would little question command only a small premium over the 5, which is being launched subsequent 12 months at round £25,000. A beginning value of slightly below £30,000 would neatly fill the hole between the 5 and the Mégane, which is presently out there from £34,995.

However, Renault engineering boss Gilles Le Borgne prompt providing an electrical Clio shouldn’t be an instantaneous precedence for the new-generation automobile’s launch in 2026 as a result of, in concept, “you can have a whole life of ICE, hybrid Clio before the ICE ban” in 2035.

Nonetheless, he stays a vocal proponent of providing ‘multi-energy’ powertrain choices on the identical platform, as long as it’s reasonably priced – and worthwhile – to take action.

“It’s like religion. We always fight over multi-energy. Perhaps you know my background,” mentioned Le Borgne, referring to a 30-year tenure on the PSA Group, throughout which he oversaw the event of electrified powertrains for Peugeot, Citroën, DS and Vauxhall-Opel. “I used to be the one combating for multi-energy on the opposite facet of the river – and I’ve no faith.

“I’m very practical. When I can use multi-energy, I do.”

Car review

Renault Clio

The fifth-generation Renault Clio exudes sophistication in its design, functionality, and interior ambiance. The switch from Renault’s old 898cc three-cylinder turbo engine to the new 999cc three-cylinder turbo engine may seem like a technical change, but it has resulted in improved refinement, drivability, and efficiency.

While the overall performance is not outstanding, the mid-range petrol Clio with the new engine proved to be faster than some competitors in acceleration tests. It was slower than the 94bhp 1.0-litre Volkswagen Polo in a 0-60mph test but faster than the 89bhp Nissan Micra IG-T in a 30mph to 70mph test.

Subjectively, the Clio impresses in many ways. The engine is quiet and well-behaved during startup and idle. The accelerator pedal is well-calibrated and intuitive, allowing for smooth acceleration. The throttle response is notably improved compared to the old engine.

The Clio delivers a useful wave of torque between 2000rpm and 3500rpm, enabling effortless cruising at high speeds. Although it may not match the vigor and rev-happiness of Ford’s smallest Ecoboost triple at high engine speeds, the Clio has no problem performing when needed.

The five-speed manual gearbox is well-weighted and offers defined shifts, while the clutch pedal is easy to operate. The hybrid variant, despite its initially complex setup, provides improved fuel efficiency and simplifies driving in most situations.

The Clio truly shines at urban speeds, thanks to its excellent mid-range torque. It feels more lively than its 9.3-second 0-62mph time suggests. However, at higher speeds, the four-cylinder petrol engine tends to produce an unpleasant growl, particularly during hard acceleration.

The Clio’s driving dynamics may not fully live up to the Alpine branding on the range-topping model, but it handles well with accurate steering and nimble cornering abilities. Additionally, the Clio delivers an impressive ride quality, although some stiffness can be felt at lower speeds. Overall, it provides a comfortable driving experience.

News

Renault Clio offers new pure-petrol option in the UK for £17,795

The new Renault Clio now has a more affordable pure-petrol engine option available in the UK. This comes after the supermini was exclusively made as a hybrid in a recent facelift.

The decision was made in response to the current cost of living crisis, which has had an impact on consumer demand for new cars throughout the market.

Renault stated in a statement to Autocar: “We are committed to achieving 100% electrification in the UK with Renault’s E-Tech electric technology, available in both fully electric and full-hybrid powertrains.

“The new Renault Clio will be launched with an E-Tech full-hybrid [143bhp] engine.

“To cater to the needs of some customers in a challenging economic climate, the new Clio will also be available with an [89bhp] TCe petrol engine.”

2023 Renault Clio interior

The hybrid powerplant consists of a 1.6-litre petrol engine and two electric motors that work together to deliver 143bhp and 151lb ft of torque to the front wheels. It is only available with an automatic gearbox and offers a fuel efficiency of 67.3mpg.

On the other hand, the TCe 90 is a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine that produces 89bhp and 118lb ft of torque. It achieves a fuel efficiency of 56.5mpg.

The new petrol engine, which is shared with the Dacia Sandero and is only offered with a manual gearbox, is £3500 cheaper than the hybrid option.

As a result, prices for the Clio now start at £17,795 instead of £21,295. This makes it more affordable compared to key rivals in the supermini segment, such as the Peugeot 208 (starting from £20,610 but expected to increase with an upcoming mid-life facelift), the Hyundai i20 (£20,770), and the Vauxhall Corsa (£19,275).

2023 Renault Clio rear quarter