La Renault Clio It's no longer just a bestseller: it's a European automotive institution. Launched in 1990, it has spanned three decades, establishing itself as the obvious choice for millions of drivers. Today, Renault unveils a thoroughly modernized 2025 Clio, designed to embody a confident move upmarket and become a "super-powered hatchback" built around three pillars: emotion, driving experience, and technology.
The origins of the Clio: the small revolution of 1990
When Renault launched the Clio in 1990, the stakes were high: replacing the Supercinq, an iconic model that had defined a generation. The diamond-shaped logo brand aimed to go further by offering a versatile city car that was more comfortable, better equipped, and capable of appealing to both young drivers and families. The first Clio marked a stylistic turning point, adopting more rounded lines, improved sound insulation, and a level of finish that exceeded the standards of the time. It embodied the new idea of a small car that was stylish, modern, and ambitious.
This vision bore immediate fruit: voted European Car of the Year in 1991, the Clio experienced a meteoric rise, the foundations of which were only strengthened by subsequent generations. Designed as a city car capable of doing everything, the Clio laid the groundwork from its launch for its enduring success: versatility, reliability, comfort, and a touch of audacity. More than just a high-volume model, it became a symbol of contemporary mobility and remained the French people's favorite car for 25 years.
2025: an emotional and assertive design
From the first glance, the new Clio surprises with its more athletic style. The surfaces are more sculpted, the front end sports a sharp lighting signature, and the silhouette gains presence. The 4 cm wider track and wheels up to 18 inches reinforce this dynamic stance, while the refined aerodynamics contribute to overall efficiency. The new colors, including "Absolute Green" and "Absolute Red," add a premium dimension never before seen on the Clio.
A redesigned driving experience
Under the hood, Renault showcases its hybrid expertise with the 160 hp E-Tech Full Hybrid powertrain, combining a 1.8L engine with a 1,4 kWh battery. It boasts CO₂ emissions of just 89 g/km and fuel consumption of 3,9 L/100 km, while offering a range of up to 1,000 km. In the city, the new Clio can operate in electric mode up to 80% of the time, significantly enhancing its driving experience. Alongside the hybrid, the TCe 115 turbo and the ECO-G 120 LPG complete a range focused on fuel efficiency and low running costs.
Dynamic handling is improved thanks to new chassis settings, larger wheels, and a wider track. The 2025 Clio becomes more stable and precise, without compromising its legendary comfort, while remaining one of the most spacious city cars: 4,116 m long, with a boot capacity of up to 391 litres and 1,176 litres with the rear seats folded down.
A concentration of embedded technology
Inside, the Clio features a modern interface with a 10,1-inch OpenR Link central screen, available with Google Automotive Services. Users benefit from access to Google Maps, over 100 apps, and even 2 GB of monthly data for streaming audio or video. The city car also comes equipped with 29 driver assistance systems, including standard adaptive cruise control, rear automatic braking, occupant departure warning, and a new digital camera. The Alpine-inspired trim level even offers Level 1 semi-autonomous driving.
A more sustainable car
Renault is emphasizing the circularity of its materials. The textiles in the Alpine-inspired versions contain 92% recycled fibers, while the rear bumper is made from 100% post-consumer plastic. The dashboard and Alpine-inspired wheels each use at least 50% recycled materials. This is a strong commitment, reflecting the brand's ongoing ecological transition.
A simplified and premium range
The new Clio embraces its move upmarket. The "Evolution" trim (starting at €19,900) already offers a generous equipment list with its large screen, automatic parking brake, and adaptive cruise control. The "Techno" trim (€23,900) adds Google Automotive Services, automatic climate control, and keyless entry. Finally, the "Esprit Alpine" trim (€27,600) embodies the pinnacle of modernity, with the E-Tech 160 engine, 18-inch wheels, and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features.
A French icon who remains a leader
The Clio remains a pillar of the French market: 6 million units sold and 25 years of market leadership. By 2025, Renault's "two-pronged" strategy will be built around the Clio, the hybrid leader, and the Renault 5, the electric leader. This alliance positions the brand at the forefront across all segments.
With this new generation, Renault is giving its iconic model a major facelift. More elegant, more technologically advanced, more efficient, and more sustainable, the 2025 Clio stands out as the most accomplished and cohesive version ever launched. The French city car reaffirms its iconic status more than ever, ready to continue writing one of the most remarkable stories in the European automotive industry.
Test drive – Photos:
Patrick Koune
