Renault has officially unveiled its fourth-generation Clio. Sporting an all-new look, the Clio looks more premium and grown-up than ever before and will take on such market favourites as the Volkswagen Polo.
Powering the new Clio are a selection of low-emissions engines fitted with start/stop as standard. These include a pair of 67 kW units: a turbocharged 900 cc three-cylinder petrol engine developing 135 N.m at 2 500 r/min and a 1,5-litre dCi unit with 220 N.m of torque. Transmission options include a five-speed manual and a dual-clutch automatic set-up. Claimed fuel consumption figures for the petrol and diesel engines stand at 4,3- and 3,2 litres/100 km, respectively. A new 1,2-litre petrol engine with 89 kW and 190 N.m will be available in the first half of 2013.
New Clio is longer, lower and wider than the model it replaces; measuring in at 4 060 mm in length, 1 450 mm tall and 1 730 mm wide. Visually, it features the new Renault family face with the large logo and swept-back headlamps with LED daytime running lights. Integrated rear door handles near the C-pillar and a profusion of chrome detailing are among the exterior highlights. The lines and contours of the new car are completely different to those of the current Clio and, viewed in profile, gives the car a somewhat oriental (read Hyundai/Kia/ Nissan) look about it.
Overseas Clio customers will have the option of various entertainment and navigation systems, as well as many personalisation options for their vehicles. These include a selection of door mirror housings, grille bars, rear panel skirts, lower door protectors and wheel finishes, as well as a choice of roof graphics. Among the interior personalisation options are a variety of facia trims, door panels, steering wheel finishes, grab handles, gear lever surrounds, air vent surrounds, upholstery materials and optional floor mats.
“New Renault Clio was conceived as a piece of sensuous sculpture which stimulates desire. Like muscles, its curves express the dynamism radiated by the DeZir concept car. No acute or aggressive angles, just voluptuous curves that make you want to go up to it and caress it,” said Laurens van den Acker, senior vice-president of corporate design.
Further details of New Renault Clio will be provided at the international media road tests in September and at the Paris Motor Show before it arrives on the South African market in the first quarter of 2013.
