Is Renault going too far with the new Clio?
This page is translated from the original post "Est-ce que Renault va trop loin avec la nouvelle Clio ?" in French.
- 12/09/2025 16:44
Between photo leaks on social networks and a controversial design, the new Renault Clio begins its journey in a rather unusual way!
Since its inception in 1990, the Renault Clio has established itself as an iconic city car. Succeeding the Renault 5, it immediately charmed with its modern design, comfort, and maneuverability, earning the title of “Car of the Year” in 1991. The second generation, launched in 1998, reinforced this reputation, particularly thanks to improved finishes. The Clio III, introduced in 2005, and the Clio IV, which arrived in 2012, both distinguished themselves with increasingly dynamic designs and modern onboard technologies. Finally, the Clio V, unveiled in 2019, marked the arrival of hybrid engines, confirming the lasting success of this model. More than thirty years after its debut, the Clio remains an essential reference in the city car segment in Europe and a symbol of Renault’s DNA.
Renault continues the story of its iconic city car with the presentation of the all-new Clio, but the celebration is slightly marred. The photo leaks that occurred over the weekend have put a halt to the surprise effect expected for this generation. The modernized style may not achieve unanimous approval among fans of the model, with some lamenting a less daring approach than anticipated. This Clio especially struggles to shine next to the electric Renault 4 and Renault 5! So much so that one might wonder if Renault should have leaned into nostalgia by returning closer to the egg-shaped design of the original model…
The Clio will have to prove itself
The sixth generation of the Renault Clio is distinguished by a complete overhaul, both technically and stylistically. The design adopts a modern and technological language, with sculpted lines and a bold front look. However, some observers believe that despite these efforts, the style still lacks a bit of character, even with the extreme complexity of the optics, and could divide opinions. A good point is given to the rear, which takes cues from the Rafale and adds a touch of dynamism to the overall design.
This new Clio offers a wider and more efficient range of engines. It positions itself as the most economical model in Renault’s hybrid lineup, complementing the electric offering. The full hybrid E-Tech 160 hp engine combines performance and efficiency, with CO2 emissions of 89 g/km and a mixed consumption of 3.9 l/100 km. In urban and peripheral use, it can run up to 80% of the time in electric mode and allows for a reduction of up to 40% in consumption compared to a gasoline engine. The lineup also includes gasoline and LPG engines starting from 115 hp, providing a balance between performance and efficiency.
The interior receives particular attention to presentation quality, with recycled materials and a modern layout. The dual OpenR display in a V shape, paired with the OpenR Link multimedia system integrating Google, brings connectivity and new functionalities to this category. The overall design is indeed borrowed from the R5, but the finish seems to have reached a higher level.
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After more than thirty years of success, the Clio V continues to seek to marry heritage and modernity, but this time, the road to public acceptance may be a bit more winding.
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