2013 Renault Clio IV revealed early as official images leak online
Renault’s next-generation Clio IV surfaced ahead of schedule in official images leaked through the company’s Irish website, giving an early look at the five-door hatchback’s design.
Renault’s plans for the next-generation Clio were upended in early July 2012 when official images of the Clio IV surfaced online ahead of the car’s scheduled unveiling. The photographs, which briefly appeared on Renault Ireland’s website before being removed, were quickly captured and circulated by automotive sites, giving the public its first clear look at the new five-door hatchback.
The leaked images show Renault’s latest approach to small-car design, with the Clio IV adopting a more sculpted, modern look compared to its predecessor. The car features pronounced front and rear arches, a sleeker roofline and a prominent Renault badge set into a wide grille. The five-door layout is retained, with rear door handles integrated into the window line to give a sportier, coupé-like appearance.
Design and new features
The Clio IV’s styling moves away from the upright, conservative look of the previous generation, instead adopting a lower stance and more aggressive detailing. The front end is dominated by swept-back headlamps and a bold grille, while the rear is marked by a wide tailgate and compact lamps. The images confirm that Renault is targeting a younger audience with a more dynamic shape and greater visual presence.
Interior images were not included in the leak, so details on cabin layout and technology remain unconfirmed at this stage. However, Renault has previously indicated that the Clio IV will offer new infotainment options and improved materials to keep pace with rivals such as the Peugeot 208 and Ford Fiesta.
Engine range and Renaultsport version
While the leaked images focus on the standard model, attention has already turned to the next Renaultsport Clio, which was previewed earlier in 2012 in prototype form at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Renault is set to downsize the performance model’s engine, replacing the outgoing 2.0-litre naturally aspirated unit with a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder. Power is expected to remain at least 200bhp, with increased torque over the previous model. The prototype shown at Goodwood featured a dual-clutch transmission, though the final production specification was not confirmed in the leak.
The standard Clio IV is also expected to introduce smaller-capacity turbocharged petrol engines, including a new 0.9-litre TCe unit producing 90bhp, as Renault aims to improve efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions across the range. Full technical details are due to be released at the car’s official debut.
Paris Motor Show debut still planned
Despite the leak, Renault is set to unveil the Clio IV as planned at the Paris Motor Show in September 2012. The new model will play a central role in Renault’s European line-up, competing directly with the Peugeot 208 and Volkswagen Polo. The company is expected to release further information and official images closer to the show.
For more on the Clio IV’s development and future body styles, see our coverage of the2014 Renault Clio Sedan Rendered.
