Renault has released a massive photo gallery with
its all-new Clio as the European market launch of the supermini gets underway. Most images are from the media
event recently hosted in Portugal, showing in great detail two trim levels of
the 2020 Clio: the Intens and the RS Line. The model will also be available in
a range-topping Initiale Paris grade.
Underneath the evolutionary design lies the new
modular CMF-B platform and a new specially-designed chassis, the
fifth-generation Renault Clio promises greater comfort and agility. The
automaker made several changes in that respect: for example, the steering rack
ratio is down from 15.2 to 14.4, making the steering easier to control and more
responsive while providing “more reliable feedback” to the driver. The turning
radius is also reduced from 10.8 to 10.5 meters to improve maneuverability in
the city.
Renault says the 2020 Clio offers greater stability
when taking bends at high speeds as well as a reduction in mass transfer thanks
to an improved overall chassis balance and rear axle guidance, optimized
suspension travel, and increased axial stiffness at the front. For improved
vehicle response, brake pedal travel has been reduced.
The new modular CMF-B platform also helps to improve
efficiency in the new Clio, which offers the option of a hybrid powertrain for
the first time. Available from 2020, the E-Tech hybrid drivetrain combines a
new-generation 1.6-liter gasoline engine with two electric motors, a multi-mode
gearbox, and a 1.2 kWh battery. No exact specs of the Clio E-Tech have been
released but the hybrid setup is said to provide “maximum efficiency in use
with class-leading responsiveness, limited energy waste and quick battery
charging when decelerating.”
The conventional engine lineup includes new
turbocharged gasoline (1.0 TCe 100 and 1.3 TCe 130) engines as well as two
1.5-liter diesels with outputs ranging from 65 PS to 130 PS. In
total, customers will be able to choose from nine engine/gearbox combinations.
Tech highlights include the Renault Easy Link
multimedia system with 7- and 9.3-inch touchscreen displays and standard
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as a comprehensive driver assistance
package. The latter is called Renault Easy Drive and includes features such as
a 360-degree camera, active emergency braking with cyclist and pedestrian
detection, and the Highway & Traffic Jam Companion Level 2 autonomy system
which combines Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go and lane centering
assistance.
