The new Renault Clio 4 has been officially unveiled to the public today at the Paris Motor Show. The new Clio 4 is the embodiment of Renault’s new design identity which is simple, sensuous and warm. The new Renault Clio 4 will be launched in South Africa in the first half of 2013, with the Clio 4 R.S. 200 EDC becoming available later in 2013.

New Renault Clio 4 offers style and improved efficiency

??Engine Capability

Two Renault TURBO Control Efficiency petrol engines will be on offer. The first option is the three cylinder 900cc TURBO Control Efficiency petrol engine with performance equivalent to a normally-aspirated 1.4-litre, four cylinder engine. This engine produces 66kW and 135Nm of torque at 2500rpm. A Stop&Start system with energy recovery under braking allows for a fuel consumption figure of 4.3-litres/100km and a CO2 emissions figure of only 99g/km.

The New Renault TURBO Control Efficiency 85kW engine, coupled with EDC for the first time, is one of the most powerful and efficient engines it’s class. This engine is coupled with an EDC dual clutch transmission which offers seamless and smooth gear changes. This 1.2-litre engine with direct injection produces 190Nm of torque from 2000rpm. An ‘eco’ mode can be activated with the push of a button to optimise performance and reduce fuel consumption by up to 10%.

Exterior Styling??

The new Renault Clio 4 is recognised by its prominent Renault logo set against a gloss black background, first seen on the DeZir concept car. This feature is accented with headlight units with chrome accents and LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). The five-door Clio 4 features a sporty silhouette and the integrated rear door handles are concealed close to the rear quarter lights.

The Clio 4 measures 4.062 metres long, 1.732 metres wide, 1.448 metres tall and sits 45mm closer to the ground than the outgoing model. The large diameter wheels have been pushed 15mm outwards and finish flush with the wheel arches. The Clio 4 also features a steeply raked windscreen for added appeal.

??Interior Styling

The interior features a dashboard in the shape of an aircraft wing with a neat centre console and finely appointed details throughout the cabin.The Clio 4 sets new standards for onboard technology, mostly seen on larger cars. The Clio 4 features Renault R-Link as an option with a large 18cm touchscreen display that provides access to navigation, multimedia, phone, vehicle, services and applications and systems. All Clio 4 models equipped with R-Link benefit from 3D sound by Arkamys. The MEDIA NAV system is built into the console and provides basic functionality and is fitted as standard on all models. Sound is offered with the Renault Bass Reflex system.

??Safety Features

Each model is equipped with an Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ASR traction control, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assist as well as a more direct variable rate electric power steering. Other standard equipment includes cruise control with a speed limiter and ‘motorway-mode’ indicators which produce three flashes of the indicator when preparing to overtake.

The new Reanualt Clio 4 is keyless and the key is replaced with an electronic card that unlocks and locks the doors and the car can be started with the card safely stored. The Clio 4 holds a 5-star EuroNcap rating.