Clio, now entering its fifth generation of being an automotive icon, within the Renault range of models, is an entirely new car, despite its obvious familial appeal. To date, in excess of 15m examples of the Clio have been sold since it was launched in 1990 and it has become Groupe Renault’s best-selling model worldwide. The Clio represents the French population's favourite car more than any other model and has risen to the top of the B-segment in Europe since 2013. In a remarkable sales performance, its sales increased each year between 2012 and 2018.

More modern and athletic, the all-new version draws on the DNA responsible for its success for the best part of three decades. It builds on the strengths of each of the former generations but opens a new chapter in a truly durable story. Retaining its compact exterior dimensions, passenger space has grown and the new model features the customary raft of driver aids and safety addenda, plus several features already on the latest Megane and Espace models. 

Both customers new to Clio and those familiar with its previous generations will be delighted with the vastly improved build quality, more up-market trim detailing and a long list of impressive comfort features. Overall, its design is very strong, while retaining elements of Megane and the revered and enlarged Renault ‘lozenge’ on both its front grille and tailgate. 

Designed according to Renault’s current ‘Evolution and Revolution’ stated principle, the new Clio rewrites the company’s rule book, with more mature body styling and its entirely revamped interior. With more sculpted lines and a more assertive front end, the Clio gains in vitality and currency, while remaining instantly recognisable, even though it comprises 100% new parts. As you have been made aware already, the completely redesigned interior has been inspired by higher-end products, both in terms of perceived quality and the available technology. Of course, these aspects benefit the Clio customer, by bringing them greater practicality and ease of use.

Its designer and former Mazda styling boss, Laurens van den Acker, stated: “The fifth generation Clio is very important for us, as it is the best-seller in its segment and the second best-selling car in Europe, all categories combined. The Clio is an iconic model and the latest one combines only the best features from the previous generations. The exterior design of the outgoing Clio IV won over our customers and continues to do so, which is a great reason to keep that DNA, while bringing more style and elegance to its replacement. The interior has undergone a true revolution, with a considerable improvement in perceived quality, greater sophistication and technology. We believe that it is the best Clio yet.”