We visited Paris recently for the global unveiling of the all-new Renault Clio, a car that has long been a benchmark in its class and remains one of the most iconic names in European motoring. The sixth generation made its debut with a sharper, more assertive design than we expected, a distinctive nose and proportions that signal Renault’s intentions to revitalise the Clio name. Since its launch in 1990, the Clio has been at the heart of Renault’s success and has held a special place for motorists everywhere, myself included. The first generation carries extra meaning for me, as it was my mother’s car of choice for her daily journeys. It disrupted the market by bringing big-car features to the compact segment, earning a reputation for quality and innovation. Over five generations, it has twice been crowned European Car of the Year, spawned legendary variants such as the Clio Williams and the mid-engined V6, and shifted nearly 17 million units across 120 countries! This makes it the best-selling French car of all time and even this year the little Clio continues to dominate European sales, topping the charts in the first half of 2025.
This sixth-generation model arrives with a design we were not expecting. A longer bonnet, extended wheelbase and wider track give it proportions closer to a coupé than a traditional hatchback, while a sloping roofline, integrated spoiler and shark fin antenna complete the stylish profile. At the front, a prominent grille with diamond motifs and a striking new light signature frame the redesigned Renault badge. The rear has also been heavily re-worked with four supercar-inspired taillights and a muscular stance. New colours, including Absolute Red and Absolute Green, sit alongside familiar finishes such as Glacier White, Iron Blue and Shadow Grey.
Amidst a gaggle of journalists we squeezed past and opened the drivers door to reveal just how far the Clio has moved this segment upmarket. In line with the current Megane, Renault 4 and 5 etc you can see the dashboard has been redesigned with higher quality materials, recycled fabrics and ambient lighting options. Depending on trim, Alcantara and coloured chrome accents give the cabin premium feel. In front of the driver, dual 10.1-inch screens angled towards the driver with Google built-in offer crystal clear features such as Google Maps, Assistant and Play Store integration, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The optional Harman Kardon sound system will deliver an even better sound experience through a 10-speaker setup for serious music fans.
Practicality has not been forgotten either! The cabin includes clever storage solutions such as a covered central console, multiple USB-C ports, wireless charging and rear 12V outlets. Boot space is generous at up to 391 litres, with a sill height lowered by 40mm for easier access. Safety and driver assistance systems are another major step forward. Up to 29 features are available, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking in reverse, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist and a 360-degree camera system. Renault has also included tools like Safety Score and Safety Coach, which help drivers adopt safer driving habits over time. The top-of-the-range Esprit Alpine trim adds further distinction with Alcantara seats, blue highlights, aluminium pedals and unique 18-inch alloys, while also incorporating more recycled materials than ever before.
The Clio’s reputation has always rested as much on the way it drives as how it looks, and although we have yet to drive the vehicle it has been designed to deliver on both fronts. Built on the CMF-B platform, it now has a wider track and carefully tuned chassis that promises agility in the city and stability on the open road. A new steering system reduces lock-to-lock turns for added precision, while improved suspension and soundproofing enhance refinement. Under the bonnet, a choice of two powertrains for Irish buyers caters to different needs. The highlight is the full hybrid E-Tech 160, developed by Horse Powertrain. Combining a 1.8-litre petrol engine with two electric motors and a 1.4 kWh battery, it produces 160hp, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds and achieves an impressive 3.9 l/100 km fuel consumption with CO2 emissions as low as 89g/km. In city driving, the Clio can run on electric power for up to 80% of the time, and on longer journeys it is capable of covering 1,000 km without refuelling. For those seeking simplicity, a 115hp 1.2-litre petrol engine is offered with either a manual gearbox or a new six-speed dual-clutch automatic with paddle shifters. An LPG dual-fuel Eco-G version with even greater range is also under consideration for certain markets!
With its combination of sharp design, advanced technology, sustainable materials and impressive powertrains, the new Clio is more than just an update, it is a statement of Renault’s intent to dominate the B-Segement. It somehow remains recognisably Clio, but sharper, more modern and better equipped to stand out from the competition. Deliveries in left-hand drive markets will begin by the end of the year, though right-hand drive versions may not arrive in Ireland until 2027. For now, the new Clio signals that one of Europe’s most beloved small cars has grown up, without losing the character that made it a star for more than three decades!
