New Clio — the legend enters its sixth chapter

The latest-generation Clio, a true heir to its legacy

Unveiled in Munich, New Clio immediately stands out with its bold and distinctive design: a modern, technological expression of Renault’s identity, defined by sculpted, sensual lines. It also offers a versatile range of efficient and dynamic powertrains designed to meet every need. And with cutting-edge connectivity and advanced driver-assistance features, Clio redefines what a city car can be.

The road to today’s Clio was paved by five remarkable generations. Let’s take a look back!

A name with a story to tell.

When Renault set out in the early 1990s to replace the legendary Supercinq, the brand chose to innovate, even in the name itself. Gone were the numbers; a new era of names had begun. Clio was chosen, inspired by the muse of History in Greek mythology. A powerful symbol, designed to anchor the new city car in time.

From its very first reveal in June 1990, Clio stood out as the worthy successor to a proud tradition of popular cars: compact, agile, affordable, yet already ambitious in its features. The promise was clear: to embody a city car that was modern, universal and timeless.

The story of Renault Clio, a true automotive saga

Clio’s success was immediate. Voted European Car of the Year in 1991, Renault’s small hatch quickly established itself as a benchmark from its very first generation. Fifteen years later, its descendant repeated the feat, once again claiming the title in 2006, a rare double victory that few models can boast[1].

Since then, Clio has continued to break records: with over 17 million units sold worldwide, it has become the best-selling French car in history. Across the decades, it has won over generation after generation of drivers.

Clio is also remembered for its iconic ad campaigns, which turned it into a true star of the advertising world. Who could forget the legendary “Not expensive enough, my son” commercial that left its mark in the 1990s? Or the many TV sagas where Renault’s small car appeared as the companion to life’s big moments for its drivers. Each campaign helped shape the image of a car that was accessible, endearing and universal.

In 2025, Clio remains every bit the star. With 130,000 sales in the first half of the year, it is still Europe’s best-selling model, cementing its status as a Group best-seller.

Five generations of character

Each generation of Clio has left its mark and defined its era.

Clio 1 (1990-1998): modern and versatile, it made an instant impact, earning the title of Car of the Year in 1991. The sporty Clio Williams soon achieved legendary status, with its iconic blue livery and golden wheels.

Clio 2 (1998-2005): bigger and safer, it made airbags and ABS accessible to all. It also dared to be bold with the extravagant Clio V6, a city car transformed into a radical, mid-engine sports car.

Clio 3 (2005-2012): moving upmarket, it stood out for its build quality and family-friendly versions such as the Estate wagon. Crowned Car of the Year in 2006, it reaffirmed its status as a European benchmark.

Clio 4 (2012-2019): decidedly technological, it introduced the R-Link touchscreen and marked a new milestone in connectivity and driver-assistance systems.

Clio 5 (2019-2025): the first electrified Clio, it introduced an innovative hybrid powertrain combined with a modern design. Continuing the saga, it blends driving pleasure, efficiency and the transition to sustainable mobility.

Each of these generations has strengthened the unique bond between Clio and its drivers. More than just a means of mobility, it has been a true companion on the road, a witness to evolving lifestyles and changing ways of life.

And now, the story continues with New Clio…

Thirty-five years after its debut, Renault Clio 2025 is ready to write a new chapter. This sixth generation proudly carries the legacy of its predecessors, with bold design, efficient and dynamic powertrains, and a wealth of cutting-edge technologies and next-generation driver-assistance systems.

Clio has never stopped evolving, yet it has always remained true to its DNA: a car, popular and universal, capable of winning over every generation. And tomorrow, it will continue to embody Renault’s very definition of automobiles: close to people, reliable and always looking to the future.

[1] Renault Scénic, Volkswagen Golf, Opel Kadett / Astra and Toyota Yaris.