Renault Clio - the new hybrid version
For the first time in the Clio's 30-year history, there is a hybrid version to complement the range of combustion engines. With it comes a new naming convention, the E-TECH badge. The new petrol-electric powertrain is in line with current trends, and regulations, on reducing exhaust and carbon dioxide emissions.
The hybrid powertrain fitted to the Clio E-TECH Hybrid 140 hp delivers efficiency and dynamic driving, all with the feeling that you are helping to reduce your impact on the environment. The new model can also drive around town in all-electric mode, and the manufacturer claims that urban fuel consumption can be as much as 40% lower. All you have to do is press the EV button on the centre panel to switch to zero-emission mode. The car will not hold up traffic, because in this mode it can reach speeds of up to 75 km/h. The button is only active when the battery is sufficiently charged. Remember that when driving with the combustion engine running, every time you brake you top up the small 1.2 kWh battery.
Boot and MULTI-SENSE driving modes
All the additional hybrid components increase the weight of the powertrain by only about 10 kg ( compared with the dCi 115 combustion engine). Nor was it necessary to sacrifice any boot space: the boot is the same size as in the combustion versions (299 l).
The MULTI-SENSE settings allow the driver to choose a driving mode to suit their current mood or needs. My Sense mode seems the most suitable for everyday use; the car decides for you when to engage the electric drive. It is worth remembering, though, that pulling away always takes place in electric mode, so at this critical moment of driving the "imperfect" combustion system is backed up by the superior electric one, with its maximum torque available instantly.
Eco mode uses a less dynamic engine response curve and a suitably adapted gear-shifting algorithm. Sport mode, on the other hand, uses the full potential of the powertrain in terms of response time and performance.
Clio E-TECH exterior and interior
On the outside, the Clio E-TECH Hybrid stands out with a different rear bumper with a hidden tailpipe and E-TECH Hybrid badges on the B-pillar and the tailgate.
Inside the car, the eye is drawn to the cockpit, with its seven-inch instrument cluster display and the new Renault EASY LINK multimedia screen. The driver is kept well informed about the hybrid's driving data through a series of icons and animations that show the battery's state of charge or indicate whether the electric motor is running.
The new hybrid Renault Clio is a very interesting car in terms of its powertrain, and at the same time an extremely practical one that will do well both in the city and on the longest journeys. Renault's offensive continues, with the brand launching more and more vehicles with alternative drivetrains. The fully electric Renault Zoe, described here, and the hybrid Renault Mégane, which I tested and wrote about here, are just some of the members of this group of vehicles with the diamond on the bonnet.
