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Are you a car enthusiast ? Are you looking for a vehicle that can offer you an exceptional driving experience in every respect ? The Renault Clio Hybrid may have caught your eye. Indeed, this city car has a very neat design. Its curves and shapes are such that it’s hard to mistake it for any other car. What’s more, it has the distinction of achieving excellent performance while having almost zero environmental impact. So if you’re looking for an exciting adventure, this is a great choice. Find out everything you need to know about the Clio Hybrid to make the most of it.
The context for the appearance of the Clio Hybrid
Before presenting the Clio Hybrid, it is worth recalling the context in which the Renault Clio Hybrid made its appearance on the automotive market. Launched in 2020, the Clio solved the lack of a hybrid car in the Renault range. In fact, before this city car, the brand did not have any hybrid vehicles to speak of.
It produced and marketed thousands of electric cars, but no car with this technology. This is not the case with other manufacturers. Toyota launched its first hybrid in 2000. It was the Prius. It was a great success.
A few years later, Honda introduced a brand new car model based on this technology. It is the Yaris hybrid. Like the Prius, it seduced many car lovers. In fact, it was renewed years later under the name Honda Jazz Hybrid.
As you may have guessed. It became urgent for Renault to come up with a vehicle that was just as attractive if not more so than the original hybrids. Otherwise, it would risk losing its clientele as well as its notoriety. This is how the Renault Clio Hybrid came into being.
The Clio hybrid: a car from a renowned brand
To find out more about the Clio e-Tech Hybrid, it is essential to look at its manufacturer. Indeed, this city car does not come from a brand like any other. In the automotive field, Renault is one of the pioneer companies. Its origins date back to 1898 with the brothers Louis, Marcel and Fernand Renault.
Over the years, this construction company has continued to grow. Today, it has factories and subsidiaries all over the world. In order to gain a better influence, it has joined forces with the Japanese automobile companies Nissan and Mitsubishi.
It is now part of a vast alliance called Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi. In the first half of 2017, the latter was declared the largest car manufacturer worldwide. Behind the Clio subsidiary of the Renault group, there is a whole logistical arsenal. It’s no wonder that its sales statistics are so stellar.
In the space of 30 years, it has sold more than 15 million car models. These include the Renault Clio I, II, III, IV, V released in 1994, 1998, 2005, 2012 and 2019 respectively. The Renault Clio Hybrid is therefore only the most recent model in the range.
Characteristics of the Clio Hybrid
If you’re wondering why you should choose the Clio 5 Hybrid, you should know that it has some very interesting features. As a hybrid, it has all the benefits of a combustion vehicle as well as those of a state-of-the-art electric car.
If you go through it with a fine-tooth comb, you’ll be able to spot them. To help you, here are the essential characteristics of the Clio Hybrid.
The finishes of the Clio Hybrid
The Clio Hybrid is marketed in a variety of finishes. These include the Zen, the Limited Series, the Intens and the RS Line. These have similarities, but also specificities.
The Clio Zen hybrid
This Clio 5 hybrid has a Sce 65 or E-TECH 140 engine. In the first case, it runs essentially on gasoline. Its gearbox is manual and has 5 speeds. Its power is 65 horsepower. In the second case, it runs on both gasoline and electricity. Its gearbox is automatic. Its power is 140 horsepower.
The Clio Renault Limited Series
The Clio Renault Limited Series is most often equipped with a TCe 100 LPG, Blue dCi 100 or TCe 90 engine. When it is the first one, it works with dual fuel gasoline and LPG. As for its exact power, it is 101 horsepower.
If it’s the second engine that’s taken over, the Clio Hybrid runs on diesel. The power is still 101 horsepower. However, when it comes to the third engine, the city car runs exclusively on gasoline. It has a power output of only 91 horsepower.
The Renault Clio Intens
The Renault Clio Intens has a TCe 100 LPG, Blue dCi 100 or TCe140 engine. In the first case, it runs on dual-fuel petrol and LPG and its power is 101 hp. In the second case, it runs on diesel instead. However, its power remains at 101 horsepower. Finally, in the last case, the Clio Hybrid uses gasoline to operate and has a power of 140 horsepower.
The Clio Renault RS Line
The Clio RS Line hybrid is available with three different engines. Indeed, the first is the TCe 140. When it is installed, the city car runs on gasoline. Its gearbox is a 6-speed manual. Its exact power is 140 horsepower. The second is the TCe 90.
It runs on gasoline and has a 6-speed manual gearbox as well. However, its power is 91 horsepower. The third is the E-TECH 140. It uses gasoline and electricity to run. Its transmission is automatic. As for its power, it is 140 horsepower.
The price
As you may have guessed, the price of the Renault Clio Hybrid varies depending on the finish you choose. If you choose the Zen version, you will have to pay only €18,100 to get it. This price increases when you upgrade to the Limited Series. Indeed, for this finish, you’ll have to budget at least €19,900.
However, if you prefer the Clio Hybrid Intens, you should expect to spend €21,750. Finally, for the RS Line version, you’ll have to budget €23850. In any case, you should know that the price of this car is more affordable than other hybrids.
The design
The clio hybrid has a unique design. It is 4050 cm long, 1988 cm wide and 1440 cm high. If you look at it from the outside, you will quickly realize that its lines and curves are more fluid than those of conventional city cars.
In addition, it has a characteristic sporty touch. So, if you buy it, you are bound to attract attention from everyone.
It also has a dynamic profile and well-sculpted sides. There’s no doubt that you’ll fall in love with it no matter how you look at it. In addition to its robust appearance, it has a modern touch. This is due, among other things, to the characteristic C-shaped light signature at the logo and the full LED lighting it supports.
If you take a closer look, you can also see that this city car has chrome finishes and a metallic hue. It can be glacier white, platinum grey, celadon blue or even valencia orange. Inside the Clio 5 Hybrid, the wonderment continues. Indeed, its seats are designed with quality materials and finishes.
The latter are moreover enveloping. When you sit in them, you’ll enjoy great comfort. In addition, you should know that this design of the brand au losange is equipped with a high-tech cockpit that is automatically oriented towards the driver. You’ve probably figured it out. In the Clio Hybrid, you can’t help but enjoy a very special experience.
The motorization
Regarding the engine, you should know that the Renault clio hybrid has 3 different engines. The first one is a 4-cylinder engine with 91 horsepower. It runs on gasoline. Its capacity is 1.6L.
The second one is an electric machine with a power of 48 horses. It is this one which intervenes when it is a question of propelling the car at low speed.
The third is nothing more than a 20 horsepower high voltage starter-alternator. It recharges the battery punctually through the gasoline engine. This means that the Clio Hybrid has 140 horsepower. This is a first in the history of the brand. The torque can reach a value of 160 m.kg.
From an ecological point of view, you should know that this car was designed according to the EURO6 emission standard. It is equipped with a particle filter that allows it to regulate the emissions of its thermal engine.
By opting for this vehicle, you will benefit from an optimal motorization and an almost zero environmental impact.
The equipment
Like any city car, the Clio Hybrid comes with a variety of equipment. There are no less than 30 of them. Each of these plays a specific role. Accordingly, it is possible to classify them into categories.
In terms of design, the clio e tech hybrid is equipped with a TEP steering wheel, an evol antenna, full LED lights and body-colored exterior mirrors.
As far as comfort is concerned, the Renault city car features manual air conditioning, a rear headrest and a sun visor with vanity mirror. As for driving, you can find LED daytime running lights, a retractable key, a 4.2 analog TFT meter, a starting aid and a lane keeping assistant.
In the safety category, the Clio Hybrid has SBR, overspeed warning, emergency brake assist, LED brake lights, front, front side and passenger disconnectable airbags. Finally, on the media front, you get a connected multimedia system with 7-inch screen and DAB digital radio.
The performance
The Clio 5 Hybrid is an impressive performer. This is not only due to its engine. It is also equipped with an innovative gearbox. The latter is fully robotized. It also has dog clutches. The other thing that makes this car special is the absence of clutches and synchronizers.
In fact, the 20 horsepower electric motor takes care of regulating everything related to the speed of the vehicle. In other words, if you buy this vehicle, you will not miss out on an instantly adjustable power.
When it comes to speed, you should know that this car can reach a value of 180 km/h. It doesn’t even take long to get there. In 12.2 seconds, it can go from 0 to 100 km/h. So what are you waiting for?
The battery of the Clio Hybrid
The Clio Hybrid has a small but remarkable battery. It has a capacity of 1.2 KWh. However, you should know that this car usually uses only 0.72 KWh. This energy is more than enough to power the two electric motors of this vehicle. As for recharging, you should know that it is done automatically.
In fact, you don’t need to do anything to get the Renault e-tech hybrid’s battery to take the charge. The battery is designed to take care of itself every time you enter the braking and deceleration phases.
By choosing this new city car from Renault, you won’t have to worry about charging the battery. So don’t hesitate to get it.
Types of refills
Unfortunately, the Renault clio e-tech hybrid does not support multiple types of charging. Unlike 100% electric cars, its battery cannot be charged directly from a power outlet or the mains.
So you have to wait until you enter the braking or deceleration phase for it to recharge. When the battery is flat, the internal combustion engine takes over while it takes some energy.
At a certain recharge threshold, the hybrid car of the diamond brand starts running on electricity again. Most often, this is symbolized by the battery light turning green on the dashboard. You’ve probably figured it out by now. As with conventional hybrid cars, the Renault Clio 5 uses a standard charging system.
Buying a Clio hybrid: the essential criteria for making a good choice
As you may have noticed, there are many Renault Clios in hybrid versions. If you want to buy this city car, you have to choose carefully. To help you, here are some essential criteria that you should absolutely take into account.
The motorization
The engine is one of the points you should pay special attention to when choosing your Clio hybrid. As mentioned above, this city car can take on different powertrains. The Tce 90, TCe 100 LPG, TCe 140 and E-TECH 140 engines are just some examples.
If you want to enjoy maximum performance, opt for a 140 horsepower. If not, you can make do with a less sophisticated engine.
The security
Safety is another essential criterion to review before choosing a Clio 5 Hybrid. This is because some models are equipped with a variety of safety features (airbags, alerts, etc) while others have far fewer. So if you want the best protection on the road, you should prefer the former.
The comfort
In addition to safety, you should consider comfort when choosing your Renault clio hybrid. In reality, city cars don’t come with the same amenities. Some have a rear headrest on the seat and some do not. To have the most convenient adventure, choose a model with several accessories.
Customization options
You should also review the various customization options available before you proceed with the purchase of your Renault clio. These can greatly enhance the driving experience you’re entitled to. If you want to enjoy a new experience, don’t hesitate to opt for a vehicle that is packed with features.
In any case, the best thing to do is to compare several competing models in order to know exactly which model to choose.
Assistance available to purchase the Clio Hybrid
You want to buy a clio e tech hybrid ? Do you have a limited budget ? There are many ways to help you get there. These include car loans and leasing with a purchase option.
Car credit
The car loan is one of the aids you can apply for to make your new Renault Clio 5 Hybrid purchase a reality. Made available to you by the Renault group, it saves you the trouble of having to wait months before you can get your sporty city car.
In addition, it has the advantage of not being restrictive since the monthly payments are adapted to your budget. What’s more, you can request a refund at any time. So what are you waiting for? And why not take advantage of a conversion bonus or an ecological bonus?
Leasing with an option to buy
In addition to a car loan, you can also lease a car with an option to buy. Known as LOA Renault Financial Services, it allows you to lease a Renault Clio for the duration and mileage of your choice.
If you’re worried about being overwhelmed by the lease payments, you should know that they are based on your budget. And, at the end of the contract, you have the option of keeping your car. So don’t hesitate to use this unique solution to finance your project.
Conclusion
The Renault Clio is a vehicle with a number of features. You will be able to opt for a more environmentally friendly model. Secondly, the Renault group gives future users the opportunity to choose from a set of options. Thus, the driver will be able to personalize his Clio Hybrid very easily.
| To help you make the right choice, our OnMyBike team regularly publishes articles on hybrid and electric cars |