The Renault Clio is one of the most popular small cars in Europe, but it's about to get a lot more exciting. The French automaker has revealed a concept car that previews the next-generation Clio, and it looks like something out of a sci-fi movie.
The concept car, called the Renault Clio E-Tech Hybrid, is based on the current Clio model but with a sleeker design and a hybrid powertrain. The car features a distinctive front end with a large diamond-shaped logo that doubles as a charging port, LED headlights that extend into the fenders, and a sculpted hood. The side profile is also more aerodynamic, with flush door handles and hidden cameras instead of mirrors. The rear end has a sporty spoiler, a full-width light bar, and a diffuser that integrates the exhaust pipes.
The concept car's interior is equally futuristic, with a minimalist dashboard that houses a large touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster. The steering wheel has touch-sensitive controls and paddle shifters, while the center console has a rotary dial for selecting drive modes. The seats are upholstered in recycled fabric and leather and feature adjustable headrests and lumbar support. The car also has ambient lighting, wireless charging, and a panoramic sunroof.
The Renault Clio E-Tech Hybrid is powered by a 1.6-liter gasoline engine and two electric motors, one on each axle. The system produces a combined output of 140 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque and can drive on electric power alone for up to 31 miles at speeds of up to 84 mph. The E-Tech Hybrid has a 9.8-kWh battery pack that can be recharged in less than two hours using a standard 220-volt outlet or a fast charger in less than an hour. The car also has regenerative braking and an energy management system that optimizes power delivery according to the driving conditions.
The concept car showcases some of the technologies and design elements that will be used in the next-generation Renault Clio, which is expected to debut in 2024. The new Clio will be available with different powertrain options, including gasoline, diesel, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric. The car will also have advanced driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
