The fifth generation of the Clio has found over 15m owners, since it was launched in 1990, to become Groupe Renault’s best-seller worldwide. Although we shall not see it in the metal until next month, the new car is more modern and athletic and builds on the strengths of each of the four previous generations, opening a new and highly-anticipated chapter in its history.
Designed by Laurens van den Acker, according to Renault’s ‘Evolution and Revolution’ remit, the 100% new Clio establishes fresh standards, with more mature body styling and an entirely revamped interior. Featuring more sculpted lines and a more assertive front end, it gains in vitality and modernity, yet remains recognisable. The completely redesigned interior is inspired by top-end models, both in terms of perceived quality and available technology, intended to benefit all motorists, providing enhanced practicality and ease of use.
The fifth generation Clio is very important to the company, as it is the best-seller in its segment and the second best-selling car in Europe, all categories combined. Clio is a brand icon and the latest version carries over the very best aspects of the previous generations. Renault’s DNA is uncorrupted, while introducing modernity and elegance to the new model. The interior has undergone a true revolution, with a considerable improvement in perceived quality, greater sophistication and technology.
The new Clio has a number of strategically planned objectives to fulfil, in that it will be electrified by 2022, ensuring that Groupe Renault can offer no less than 12 EV models in its line-up. Renault (together with Nissan and Mitsubishi, its strategic partners) already leads the European market in EVs. However, the Clio Mark Five will be the first to feature the firm’s E-Tech hybrid engine, an interesting diversion based on technology developed by Renault, more details of which we shall carry in coming weeks.
By 2022, the company will have 100% connected vehicles in its key sales territories. The company is committed to producing autonomous vehicles, by 2022, and Renault will market 15 models equipped with fully-autonomous driving technology by that time. Clio will pioneer the use of driver assistance systems that will lead to autonomous driving potential on a car that is likely to be used heavily in built-up areas.
The new Clio is central to the strategy aimed at strengthening inter-company relationships in the Alliance between Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi. It hinges on the development of shared technologies and the use of new platforms, such as the CMF-B platform, on which the new Clio is the first to be built, complete with shared electrical and electronic architecture. The platform will integrate the latest technologies to respond to changing market demands.
