Available for purchase since 2012, the Renault Clio IV continues to be talked about. This city car sold more than 4 million copies during its entire career. This commercial success is partly based on a 2016 re-styling as well as a particularly efficient 90 hp TCE engine. This variation probably remains the most emblematic of this legendary model stamped with the diamond logo. Get to know this tricolor pride better through this article.
The Clio 4 is betting everything on its facelift
Combining pragmatism and aesthetics, the Clio IV has always dominated the best-seller rankings during its marketing. The craze for this city car has picked up again with its mid-term makeover. This was a way for Renault to stay one step ahead of its competitors.
For the Clio 4 TCE 90, the changes mainly concern the lighting signature. In 2016, the LED lights escape from the grille to stretch far back on the wings. Renault is starting a small stylistic revolution with “C” headlights which seems to mean “I have Character”. Moreover, this feature was included on the bow of the brand’s models released at that time.
At the stern, the rear bumper is younger with redesigned lights. As an option, the French manufacturer offers the Full LED design. During configuration, the buyer can add a proximity radar as well as a reversing camera if they feel the need. Under the hood, the 0.9 liter TCE 90 hp engine was far from being a novelty. This turbocharged 3-cylinder is a winning formula and remains unchanged since the launch of the Clio IV.
Renault supports the restyling of a more refined interior
All the charm of a Clio 4 TCE 90 lies in its LED headlights and its front bumper which give it a sporty look. The daytime running lights also have the merit of being standard on this 4.06 m long model. In addition to working on the presence, Renault took the trouble to review a few details in the cabin. For the ZEN finish offered at €17,000, the lucky owner is entitled to manual air conditioning.
The entry-level vehicle has a complete multimedia system that can be controlled from a 7-inch diagonal on-board screen. This touchscreen monitor aligns this city car with its German and Italian counterparts. Then, this car is equipped with cruise control. At the touch of a button, the driver automatically limits the car’s speed throughout a journey. Added to these amenities are electric mirrors equipped with defrosters.
Exceeding the 4 m long mark, the Clio IV TCE 90 hp ensures better habitability than the other models in the range. Occupants have 5 seats on board. The trunk volume of 300 liters was exemplary for a city car with a right rear window. Aware of the recurring comments, Renault took the trouble to review the quality of the materials for the console. In short, gray plastic has gained in elegance. The upholstery has clearly been the subject of effort with better padded seats at the front and more functional headrests for everyone.
A car with something under the hood!
Mounted in a transverse position, the noisy 3-cylinder block is whipped by a turbo to develop 90 hp. Equipped with a 5-speed manual gearbox, the Clio IV offers 140 Nm of torque when it reaches the optimal number of engine revs (around 2,500 rpm). This no-frills mechanism is controlled by a Start & Stop button. This technology would be designed to consume fuel wisely, hence the name Renault Clio TCE 90 “Energy”. Those who do not need this formality when starting up can do without it and save €300.
Available in 75 hp and 90 hp, this city car offers all the power necessary for daily use. An overboost allows you to gain an additional 5 hp with a torque increased by 10 Nm. In short, it is an interesting detail to have the recovery essential for overtaking a 12 m truck or traversing a winding mountain road. For comparison, its competitors Citroën C3 and Peugeot 208 both have an engine of more than 1200 cc. However, their torque barely reached 118 Nm at 2,750 rpm. The Clio 4 also has the merit of weighing 200 kg less than its main rivals.
A French woman who makes people jealous…
Renault signs a resounding commercial success with the noisy Clio IV TCE 90 Energy. Built in Türkiye, this car perfectly fulfills its role as an accessible versatile city car. Despite its many accolades, this vehicle intended for international customers faces tough competition. In addition, its rivals on the other side of the Rhine were significantly better motorized. The Volkswagen Polo, for example, benefits from a 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder offering up to 160 Nm of torque.
Real adversaries for the Clio IV, the Opel Corsa 1.0 Ecoboot and the Ford Fiesta are ahead of it in terms of pure mechanical performance. Fortunately, Renault has a wildcard with an affordable price. Count on €13,000 on the second-hand market. The manufacturer also announces consumption per 100 km below the 5 liter mark. Depending on the driving mode, the Clio TCE 90 Energy consumes between 5.5 to 7l/100 km.
In terms of road handling, the Citroën C3 provides more fluidity than a Clio IV. The Peugeot 208, for its part, offers more dynamism. PSA is not winning the battle, however. Indeed, Renault is making all the compromises with THE city car with more comfortable suspensions and an i-n-t-e-r-m-i-n-a-b-l-e fifth gear.
