R5 Too Retro? A New Electrified Renault Clio Is Coming In 2026

The sixth era of the French supermini will use an upgraded model of the Ampr Small platform and is anticipated to debut in 2026

The all-new R5 E-Tech Electrical could be the best member of Renault’s lineup, however it’s not meant to exchange the similarly-sized Clio. As an alternative, experiences counsel {that a} new sixth-generation Clio is underneath growth, slated for a 2026 debut. This next-gen Clio will supply each hybrid and absolutely electrical powertrain choices, aligning with Renault’s revised electrification plans.

The present fifth-gen Clio debuted in 2019, receiving a facelift in 2023. Regardless of its current replace, its successor is anticipated to reach round 2026, sustaining Renault’s custom of a seven-year lifecycle for earlier generations.

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When it comes to market positioning, the brand new Clio may cater to younger households in search of an electrified hatchback, filling the hole between the R5 and the Megane in Renault’s lineup. With a hybrid possibility, it goals to remain related amid the worldwide EV slowdown till the world absolutely embraces zero-emission powertrains.

On the skin, the brand new Clio will embrace Renault’s newest design philosophy, guided by the brand new design director, Gilles Vidal. This method has been showcased in fashions such because the Scenic E-Tech crossover and the Rafale coupe-SUV flagship. The objective is to provide it a up to date aesthetic that units it other than the retro-inspired R5 and R4, in addition to the nostalgic Twingo.

Our speculative rendering beneath displays this, incorporating Scenic design components right into a compact hatchback whereas sustaining its acquainted dimension and proportions.

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The present Clio spans 4,053 mm (159.6 inches) in size, barely surpassing the three,920 mm (154.3 inches) of the electric-only R5. Whereas this variance might not categorize them into distinct segments, it does present them with some leeway within the subcompact hatchback panorama. This strategic positioning comes at a juncture when different producers, similar to Ford, are veering away from this phase.

The following era of the Clio will seemingly sit on an upgraded model of the present CMF-B structure. The Ampr Small platform (CMF-BEV) that underpins the fully electric R5 shares round 60 p.c of its parts with the CMF-B, which means {that a} crossover between the 2 is feasible. On this context, Autocar reports that the hybrid and absolutely electrical variations of the Clio may have equivalent designs.

It’s protected to imagine that Renault will maintain evolving the hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains discovered within the present Clio and Captur with the E-Tech badge. By 2026, the electrified setups may supply an extended zero-emission vary whereas enhancing their gas effectivity credentials.

The upcoming sixth-gen Clio will face stiff competitors from rivals such because the Peugeot 208 and the Opel Corsa, each of which supply EV and hybrid variants underneath the Stellantis umbrella. In distinction, the forthcoming VW ID.2 is slated to solely embrace electrical energy. Notably, the Clio will stay Renault’s sole ICE-powered hatchback, distinguishing itself from the longer term Twingo, R5, and Megane fashions, all solely accessible in zero-emission configurations.

We count on to be taught extra concerning the 2026 Renault Clio as we transfer nearer to its debut. If the rumors maintain true, we are able to count on to catch glimpses of camouflaged prototypes for the brand new era rising someday subsequent 12 months.

Observe: This story contains renderings that aren’t affiliated with nor endorsed by Renault.

2023 Renault Clio E-Tech