Best Small Cars 2024: Tested, Rated & Ranked

The Renault Clio 6(/article/la-twingo-2026-moins-chere-que-la-twingo-1993) rolls into dealerships with its hybrid e-Tech 160 horsepower powertrain, finally ditching diesel for good. This sixth generation pushes a more aggressive design and improved aerodynamics (Cx of 0.30 versus 0.32). Early drives over 1500 km reveal interesting versatility, though dealers remain cautious about customer reception.

"By starting from scratch and choosing such a personal design language, you're taking the risk of throwing off customers who prefer something more conventional." — Renault Sales Manager

A Design That Divides But Optimizes Aerodynamics

The new Clio doesn't blend into the background. Penned by Gilles Vidal, the former PSA designer who's bounced between Renault and Stellantis, it sports a gaping grille, an aggressive front end, and sharp edges. The split headlights and piercing gaze signal a real stylistic break.

This aesthetic boldness comes with solid technical gains. The Cx drops from 0.32 to 0.30, while the SCx settles at 0.643 m² versus 0.677 m² before. These numbers help keep fuel consumption in check at highway speeds—a real bonus for a hybrid.

The Clio 6 also gains 6.3 cm in length, mostly in the overhangs. The wheelbase barely budges (+ 0.8 cm), keeping cabin space intact. The trunk still offers 309 liters, right in the middle of the class.

The e-Tech 160 Hybrid: One Engine, One Vision

Diesel is officially dead. The Clio 6 bets everything on the e-Tech 160 horsepower hybrid, pairing a 1.2-liter petrol engine with electric assistance. This powertrain promises lower fuel consumption—particularly important given today's pump prices.

"Ditching diesel isn't a problem: the pros will grab hybrids instead, which are even more economical," explains a Renault sales rep during our dealership visit. A clear strategy that fits the brand's energy transition roadmap.

How Are Dealers Handling This Launch?

The sales teams look motivated but cautious. In the showroom, the welcome is warm and professional. An appointment booked in under 48 hours, a detailed walk-through, and a 30-minute solo test drive show they're taking this seriously.

On pricing, discounts are still timid before special promotions kick in. One sales manager eventually offered €1,200 off the Techno trim, roughly 4% markdown. "Before the open house event, I can't discount," she explained initially.

A Long-Distance Drive Tells the Story

Over 1,500 km behind the wheel, the Clio e-Tech shows its versatility chops. The city car handles itself equally well in stop-and-go traffic and on the motorway, leaning on that improved aerodynamics to keep fuel economy honest at highway speeds.

The hybrid system brings a nice smoothness to everyday driving, even if 160 horsepower is nothing to write home about for the class. The proven e-Tech setup, already battle-tested on other group models, proves its worth for reliability.

What's the Entry-Level Price?

Official pricing hasn't been announced yet, but early signals suggest it'll sit slightly above the Clio 5. The Techno trim we tested appears to be top-shelf, loaded with all the latest Renault tech.

The single-engine strategy simplifies the lineup but limits budget-friendly options. Renault is banking on upselling and hybrid efficiency to justify the new pricing.

The Clio 6 marks an important moment for Renault—a mix of technical evolution and bold styling. Whether this approach will win over customers who prefer conventional good looks remains to be seen. Early dealer feedback will tell us if this confident design gamble pays off.

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