If you thought small cars belonged in museums along with VCRs and CDs, the new Renault Clio 2026 will kindly interrupt your nostalgia. It looks grown-up, drives economically, and still speaks the language that Europe understands: five doors, small dimensions, smart technology.
Sixth generation Renault Clio The 2026 looks “bigger” at first glance: a new grille with tiny diamonds (as if you didn’t know it was a Renault), sharper headlights and C‑light signature now with bold LED daytime running lights under the main headlights. The rear has split lights, and the roof spoiler would also show itself without shame on some Renaultsport version. All together on the length 4,116 mm (162.0 in), width 1,768 mm (69.6 in) and between the axes 2,591 mm (102.0 in); the height remains 1,451 mm (57.1 in). Esprit Alpine brings even more complexly designed 18-inch rims.
“When you tackle an icon, it's a mistake not to dare to take risks,” says brand boss Fabrice Cambolive. The new Clio is therefore 7 cm longer than its predecessor, sharper front and rear – and ready to continue its success in Europe.
Cabin: dual screens, still a few buttons (long live ergonomics) – Renault Clio 2026
The interior of the Renault Clio 2026 is inspired by the electric Renault 5: two 10.1-inch screens, Google built-in (Maps, Assistant, Play), and – thanks, Renault – separate row of physical climate buttonsThe old rotary knobs have been retired, but everything remains understandable even without a degree in UX. To 29 driving assistants is available in higher packages.
Practicality? Clio continues to play above the class: trunk up to 391 l (13.8 cu ft) – more than in many larger cars – and the loading lip is lowered by 40 mm (1.5 in). In front are two USB‑C and wireless charging, behind 12‑V socket. Massive automatic lever she disappeared between the seats; she was replaced by column shift lever, Manual transmission but remains with more affordable engines.
Drive: E-Tech 160 – a new smart machine, less greedy
The main performer is E-Tech 160 full hybrid: atmosphere 1.8 liters in Atkinson cycle + two electric motors = 160 hp (118 kW) and 170 Nm (125 lb‑ft)The result? 0-100 km/h 8.3 s (0-62 mph) – exactly a second faster as before. The box of tricks is known: multi-speed multimodal transmission with two gears for the main e‑motor and four for the gas station attendant and up to 15 combinations operation. There is no clutch (the car always starts on electricity), reverse but it is done via the e-motor.
Efficiency? Renault states up to 3.9 l/100 km (≈60 mpg US) and WLTP CO₂ from 89 g/km, v places up to 80 % time completely EV driving. Z 1.4 kWh battery and a full tank, the range is 1,000 km (621 mi)This is not a “plug-in”, so there is no charging on the cable – regenerates during deceleration and braking.
Other engines: 1.2 TCe and 1.2 Eco‑G (LPG)
Entrance 1.2-liter three-cylinder TCe offers 115 hp and 190 Nm (140 lb‑ft), connected to manually or 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox; to 100 km/h can do in 10.1 seconds. Fans of savings at the pump also get 1.2 Eco‑G (LPG) with 120 hp and 200 Nm (148 lb‑ft) and DCT‑6, which sprinting catches the gas station attendant. There will be no diesel – The 1.5 dCi is history.
Dimensions and practicality: numbers that can withstand a calculator
New Clio measures 4,116 x 1,768 x 1,451 mm (162.0 x 69.6 x 57.1 inches), wheelbase 2,591 mm (102.0 in); trunk remains at 391 L (13.8 cu ft), the loading edge is 40 mm lower – less back pain, more luggage. These are the values that put it at the top of its class in terms of practicality.
Safety and infotainment: a small premium
In higher trim levels, Clio offers two 10-inch surface (gauges + infotainment) and Google Built-in (Maps, Assistant, Play). The help list extends up to 29 ADAS features – a seriously grown-up package for the B-segment.
Heritage and industry: 17 million reasons
Seventeen million. This is how many Clios Renault has sold since 1990 – best-selling French car of all timeThe year 2025 brought another record: Clio 5 was best-selling car in Europe (H1)The successor will also be composed in Bursa (Turkey), where he is permanently at home.
Esprit Alpine: sporty look without the drama
If you want the look of a small hot-hatch, but without high insurance, is here Esprit Alpine: 18-inch rims, special textures and some subtle sporty details. “RS‑lite” looks, “sensible” ride.
Conclusion: Clio still “eats” the B segment
A new generation proves that small cars still count. E-Tech 160 combines real consumption (3.9 l/100 km), silent electric start and noticeably better performance (8.3 seconds to 100 km/h). Dimensions they have grown, trunk remains the king of the class, ergonomics but she didn't fall into "tapping on screens". Renault has not yet revealed the top speed, so we'll leave it to the engineers - the number will be when the homologation is complete. Prices? Not officially yet, but in France it will be higher starting price from €16,900, supplies but they start this year. In practice: if you doubted whether Clio is still the “real thing”, the answer is short – yes...and now more than ever.
Key figures (in brief): Renault Clio 2026
- E-Tech 160: 118 kW (160 hp), 170 Nm (125 lb‑ft); 0-100 km/h 8.3 s (0-62 mph).
- Consumption: from 3.9 l/100 km (≈60 mpg US), CO₂ from 89 g/km.
- Dimensions: 4,116/1,768/1,451 mm (162.0/69.6/57.1 inches); wheelbase 2,591 mm (102.0 in).
- Trunk: up to 391 l (13.8 cu ft); loading edge −40 mm (1.5 in).
- Other: to 29 ADAS, Google Built-in, 18-inch rims (Esprit Alpine).
