Renault Clio Remains EuropeS Best-Selling Hatchback with Updated Hybrid Powertrain
PARIS – The Renault Clio, Europe’s consistently top-selling hatchback, enters its seventh year of production with important updates focused on its hybrid powertrain and refreshed aesthetics. While maintaining its position as a popular choice for buyers seeking a conventional hatchback, the Clio faces increasing competition from the growing crossover market and a limited number of efficient hybrid alternatives.
The fifth-generation Clio boasts a more refined appearance than its predecessor, though retains subtle cues from previous models like rear door handles integrated into the C-pillar. Beyond cosmetic changes,Renault has upgraded the Clio’s hybrid system,replacing the previous 1.6-liter engine with a more powerful 1.8-liter unit, boosting output from 145 to 160 horsepower. The manufacturer claims a fuel consumption of just 3.9 liters per 100 kilometers,achievable with careful driving. this positions the Clio as a direct competitor to the Toyota Yaris in the efficient hybrid segment – a space where few other manufacturers currently offer comparable options, prioritizing instead the progress of crossover vehicles like Renault’s own Captur.
Renault also offers versions of the Clio equipped with a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine, some available with LPG conversion, representing the most affordable entry point to the Clio range, starting at €19,890. A five-year warranty is standard, with an extended “Mango Insurance” option available, and a 10% discount is currently offered via a link accompanying video reviews.
However, the hybrid Clio is currently only available in the top-specification “esprit Alpine” trim in some markets, resulting in a starting price of €27,890. This is notably higher than comparable Toyota Yaris hybrid models, which begin at €20,350 for the 116 horsepower version and €24,950 for the 141 horsepower variant, perhaps impacting its competitiveness in the hybrid market.
Alongside the hybrid, Renault is expanding its electric offerings with the Renault 5 and its crossover counterpart, the Renault 4.
