Billed by Renault as the ‘sexiest Clio ever,’ and inspired by the Emblème concept car, the sixth-generation is built on an updated version of the current car’s CMF-B platform. On top of the new looks, the latest Renault supermini gets an updated version of the E-Tech hybrid powertrain, and is safer than ever, with up to 29 functions depending on trim level.
The basic shape is familiar from the fourth and fifth-generation versions of the Clio, however, the sixth-generation’s exterior styling now features sculpted, softer lines, a bold LED signature, and a dynamic coupe-like roofline.
With its curvy look, we still think the new Clio looks smaller, but the dimensions have in fact grown slightly, with the wheelbase increased to 2.59m (extended by 8mm). This supermini has grown in overall length to 4.12m, from 4.05m, an additional 67mm. The Clio’s width has also increased by 39mm, from 1.73m to 1.77m.
In our opinion, the front of the new Clio remains the most controversial part of the design, with its prominent radiator grille decorated with diamonds. The new light signature features large daytime running lights, recalling the diamond of the logo, and projector LED headlights set in a detailed black housing. The side of the new Clio is the most interesting part of the design in our view, with its alternating concave and convex shapes down the flanks, larger wheels (up to 18in, depending on equipment grade) and wider track.
The concealed rear door handles might be a carry-over from the last Clio, but the contour of the windows, angled to accelerate towards the rear have been refined, making Clio the only car in its segment with hidden weatherstrips. The back of this new design is characterised by the highly angled rear windscreen, coupe-like roofline, the strong boot line, and four sporty rear taillights.
Prior to the launch, we’d only seen the new Clio in a studio, and the nose with the long bonnet, and large grille, is still the least attractive part of the design (best with the all-black grille on range-topping Esprit Alpine models, in our opinion). However, this Clio looks good on the road, although we found the detailing for the front and rear lights too fussy.
The new Clio is available with a range of seven body colours, two of which are new – Absolute Red, which all the launch cars were finished in, and Absolute Green. Both are also available on the incoming Renault Twingo E-Tech.
Inside, the space and driving position is good, we also had the chance to sit in the back on the drive, and it surprised. There is enough head and legroom for two adults to travel in reasonable comfort – although we think three would be a squeeze. On top of the extra space, quality has also seen an uplift. This can firstly be seen by the dashboard, with the passenger side covered in soft textile (Techno) and Alcantara (Esprit Alpine) and integrating ambient lighting that offers a choice of 48 colours. We particularly liked the illuminated element in the doors, that changes colour depending on the driving mode. On the top-of-the-range Esprit Alpine spec, an innovative technique has been used to paint the area around the vents with a coloured chrome fade – although we preferred the Techno trim’s standard chrome trim.
The dashboard itself is fitted with a double 10.1in V-shaped screen (depending on equipment grade), and the central screen is oriented towards the driver, running the latest Google tech. Wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay are also included – and a wireless charging pad is built into the centre console on higher-spec versions.
Renault describe the Clio’s steering wheel as ‘compact,’ with both the cars we drove having the multi-function wheel first seen on the Megane, and used in the 4 and 5 E-Tech. On top of the new (to Clio) steering wheel, the number of turns from lock to lock has been reduced from 3.3 to 2.6, for a more agile driving experience. It also integrates the Multi-Sense button to select driving modes, and there are also brand-new, supportive front seats.
Boot capacity is 391 litres (same as the current car), and is a practical size, but loading is made easier thanks to the 40mm lower loading sill than the previous generation, with the opening button cleverly hidden underneath.
The Clio has always been a safe car, but in addition to a standard automatic parking brake on all versions, this new member of the Renault range includes more ADAS features than ever—up to 29 functions depending on spec, many from higher segments.
The UK will get two engine options; a 160hp 1.8-litre four-cylinder full hybrid E-Tech engine, is offered with record-low CO2 emissions of 89g/km and fuel consumption of up to 72mpg. It has two electric motors powered by a 1.4kWh battery, can drive up to 80% of the time in electric mode in urban areas, and Renault claims it offers up to 40% fuel savings compared with petrol engines. This engine delivers 0–62mph acceleration in 8.3 seconds – one second faster than the previous generation.
The second option is a115hp 1.2-litre three-cylinder TCe petrol engine, delivering a significant performance boost over the previous generation, and will also be available, with a manual gearbox.
On the road, the Clio E-Tech’s transitions between ICE and EV power, were generally smooth, although occasionally our car didn’t seem so sure which powertrain to use, and there was a little shudder as the accelerator was prodded. The performance certainly seemed willing enough, although when accelerating, and in ‘Sport’ mode, the engine is on all the time, and it does sound quite strained – going against this Clio’s generally refined demeaner.
Another positive about the new Clio, is the way it rode. Both the cars we drove were on 18in wheels, and rode with compliance and comfort – only being unsettled by big road ruts. Out of town, and it’s the body control that impresses, with the sharper steering resulting in a much keener, more fun drive than we were expecting.
Unfortunately, because of the ZEV mandate, and uncertainty in the supermini sector, Renault UK was late to commit to bringing this new Clio to the UK. As such, the current, award-winning fifth-generation Clio will continue to be available, with the new car launched in the UK in 2027! Being so far off UK deliveries, pricing is still to be confirmed but is expected to be in line with the current model. Having spent time with the new Clio, we’re disappointed we must wait so long for UK drivers to do the same!
8/10
