Renault has announced an update of its best-selling model, the Clio. Twenty-six years after its first appearance, the new Clio is more evolution than revolution, but Renault promises a higher-end car with refined exterior styling, more color options and a high-quality interior finish.
Most notably, the introductions of a 1.5-l dCi 110 diesel engine with a six-speed manual gearbox and a six-speed manual transmission for the TCe 120 petrol engine version bring the number of engine/transmission combinations for the Clio up to 11. This, says Renault, is one of the market's most extensive powertrain ranges, although sadly none of them will hit the heights of the recent Clio R.S. 16 concept.
The Clio is now fully kitted out with LED lights, including C-shaped daytime running lights and Pure Vision headlights. The lower part of the front grille has been redesigned, as has the rear skirt for greater robustness.
Four new body colors with typically dramatic names have been added, specifically Intense Red, Titanium Grey, Pearlescent White and Iron Blue. There's also a selection of new wheel and wheel trim designs available, as well as more personalization options.
Inside, there are all new upholsteries, grain-effect plastic and chrome trim. Drivers have three different connected multimedia systems with which to play. Media Nav Evolution and Renault R-Link Evolution provide navigation functionalities, while the new R&Go system provides smartphone connectivity.
Among the driver assistance features are a rear parking sensor as standard and, on some models, a front parking sensor and a reversing camera. Higher end models boast Easy Park Assist, which will carry out parking maneuvers in their entirety for drivers.
The new Clio will begin rolling out from September. Prices for Renault's home market of France will begin at €13,700 (US$15,500).
Source: Renault