El Renault Clio It is a historic car for European roads, as it is one of the longest-lived utility vehicles on the market. Was launched in 1990 with the difficult task of replacing another success of Renault, the Renault 5 and the later Supercinco. In any case, Clio has not been bad at all, because in these 33 years he has sold almost 16 million units in the whole planet.
Right now we are in the fifth generation, the Renault Clio V, which was presented at the beginning of 2019. The original model has little to do with the current one, which, by the way, is going to receive a restyling in just a few weeks; specifically on April 18. In the meantime, let's review the key dates and figures achieved so far by the entire Clio saga.
Year 1990, the first Renault Clio arrives
As we said before, the Renault Clio was presented in 1990. such as superfive substitute. Of course, it came with technical innovations, more quality and a completely renewed design. It had such a good draft that in 1991 it won the Best Car of the Year award in Europe. Also in that 1991 one of the most iconic versions was presented, the Clio 16V. With its 1.8-valve 16 developing 140 CV and thanks to its sporty aesthetics, it didn't take long to gain loyal fans.
Another great edition that we all remember is the Renault Clio Williams, from 1993. It made reference to the Williams-Renault F1 team and was sold with specific bodywork in blue and gold Speedline wheels. With a sportier specific tuning and 150 CV galloping, today it is a highly valued version.
Clio II
If we go to Renault Clio II, the second generation was launched in 1998. The straight and angular shapes were replaced by more curved lines. In addition, it also grew and offered a cabin in which four adults could travel with some comfort. Another notable aspect is the wide range of finishes and mechanics, which fit all kinds of customers.
As we like sports cars, in this second generation of the French utility we can highlight the early Renault Clio RS, giving first 172 and later 182 CV. But without a doubt the most iconic Clio in all of history is the Renault Clio V6, with a 230 hp engine placed in the rear seats and rear-wheel drive.
Clio III
We jump to the third generation, which was put up for sale in 2005. Important innovations came from the hand of technique. First of all because the Clio III was the first in the saga to have 5-star Euro NCAP and, second, for offering really efficient engines. It was once again chosen as the Best Car of the Year in Europe.
There was no shortage of versions signed by Renault Sport and, as a surprise, a estate estate body launched in 2008 which, in certain markets, had a good sales volume. Not so in Spain, which went largely unnoticed.
Clio iv
We move on to the year 2012, the date on which the Renault Clio IV. Aesthetically improved considerably compared to the predecessor, introducing a new design language. It had different customization options, finishes and engines, although refinement was not his main virtue.
Finally, we come to 2019, where he Renault Clio V. the aesthetics of the previous model evolve and, now, it considerably improves adjustment and refinement details, significantly increasing the perceived quality. The same goes for multimedia screens. Also important, the French utility was electrified with the engine E-Tech hybrid and received a high level of driving assistants to improve active safety and comfort.
As we said, we will wait until next Tuesday, April 18 to learn about each and every one of the novelties that the Renault Clio V will incorporate in its restyling.
