2019 Renault Clio revealed

The Clio adopts an evolutionary exterior design, retaining the large Renault emblem sitting proudly at the front. The details have been sharpened from the previous generation with deeply chiselled front fog lamps and bolder lines down its flanks. It also feature LED headlights, aerodynamic air deflectors on the front wheel arches.

Renault released details of the all-new interior yesterday, with the new model having a more premium finish for a city car.

The boot has been expanded by 26-litres to 391-litres, with the premium Bose sound system now integrated into other parts of the car to stop it encroaching on luggage capacity.

The French firm has also announced it will rename the range-topping GT-Line model R.S. Line, to cash-in on the success of the Renault Sport hot hatches. While the R.S. Line won’t get the mechanical upgrades of the proper Clio R.S. it will get a sportier look, with unique 17-inch alloy wheels, honeycomb grille, ‘F1 blade’ on the front air intake and a redesigned rear bumper. Inside it will get unique sports seats with carbon fibre effect trim, leather steering wheel and aluminium pedals.

While the exterior may be evolutionary, underneath the Clio is the first model to adopt the new CMF-B platform from the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. It’s the same architecture that is expected to underpin the next generation Captur, Nissan Juke and Mitsubishi ASX.

The new Clio is 14mm shorter than the model it replaces and 30mm lower, as well as lighter.

Renault hasn’t revealed any technical details of the new Clio’s engine specifications, but it’s expected to be offered with both a 1.0-litre naturally-aspirated and turbocharged three-cylinder petrol unit. It’s also set to introduce a hybrid powertrain, part of the brand’s push towards offering 12 electric models by 2022.

The Clio will make its public debut at the 2019 Geneva motor show before hitting Australian showrooms in 2020.