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Renault Clio: IV and V generations, engines and trims
The Renault Clio is one of Europe's most popular small city cars, beloved in Lithuania for its low running costs, compact dimensions and affordable price. We look at how the IV and V generations differ, which engines are most common, how the trims vary and what to check before buying a used one.
Clio in brief
The Clio has been in production since 1990 and all five generations have been among Renault's best-selling models. The IV generation was offered as a five-door hatchback and estate – the Clio Grandtour – while the V generation is only available as a five-door hatchback.
The Clio is praised for its economical engines, easy city driving and the fact that it's often cheaper than a used Volkswagen Polo or Toyota Yaris on the second-hand market. Boot space and rear legroom are typical for this class of car – it's primarily a city car for one or two people.
IV and V generations – what's the difference
The IV generation (2012–2019) features expressive styling, with handles on the rear doors hidden behind the rear window. Most cars have a touchscreen infotainment system. 2016 facelift models in higher trims gained LED headlights and a slightly more upmarket interior.
The V generation (from 2019) is built on the new CMF-B platform: the interior is significantly more upmarket, there are more driver assistance systems and the range includes the E-Tech hybrid. The 2023 facelift features a new front design with the updated Renault badge and new trim names.
Older III generation (2005–2012) still crops up as the cheapest option, but most of these cars have already clocked up serious miles, so the key thing is the condition.
Engines and gearboxes
In the IV generation, the most popular choices are the 0.9 TCe three-cylinder petrol engine (around 90 hp), the 1.2 16V without a turbo (around 75 hp), and the 1.5 dCi diesel (around 75–110 hp). The 1.2 TCe (around 120 hp) is often paired with the EDC automatic gearbox, while the sporty Clio R.S. featured a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine (around 200–220 hp).
The V generation is anchored by the 1.0 SCe (around 65–75 hp) and 1.0 TCe (around 90–100 hp) petrol engines, the more powerful 1.3 TCe (around 130–140 hp), and the 1.5 Blue dCi diesel (around 85–100 hp). The E-Tech hybrid (around 140–145 hp) combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with electric motors and a unique automatic gearbox. A factory-fitted LPG version is also available.
Gearboxes come in manual, automatic EDC (dual-clutch), or the stepless X-Tronic, which in the V generation is paired with the 1.0 TCe engine. For those who drive mostly in the city, the hybrid is the most convenient, while the simplest and cheapest to maintain is the manual gearbox.
What to check when buying a used Clio
The 1.5 dCi diesel is economical but sensitive to oil change intervals — ask about the service history. For diesel cars that have mostly been driven in the city, check the particulate filter (DPF) and EGR valve; for city driving, it's often more sensible to choose a petrol engine.
The fourth-generation 1.2 TCe (around 120 hp) engines may have increased oil consumption — check if the oil level was regularly monitored. The EDC gearbox should shift smoothly, without any jerking when moving.
Check the multimedia screen, air conditioning, and electric windows. City cars often have minor dents and scratches, so inspect the bumpers, wheel arches, and paintwork, and verify the ride quality against service and MOT records.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common trims found in Europe.
Zen
Fourth and fifth generationsThe base trim, which is sufficient for most daily city driving.
- Air conditioning
- Often — alloy wheels
- Often — multimedia screen with phone connectivity
Intens
Fourth and fifth generationsHigher-spec trim, popular in the used market.
- Alloy wheels
- Often — automatic climate control and rear parking camera
- Often — navigation and larger screen
GT Line
Fourth generationSporty-looking version with standard engines.
- Sporty bumpers and larger wheels
- Sport seats and interior
- Often — LED headlights
R.S. Line
V generationSporty V generation version, replacing GT Line.
- Sporty bumpers, often 17-inch wheels
- Sport seats and steering wheel
- Often — digital instrument cluster
Initiale Paris
Fourth and fifth generationsThe most luxurious trim for comfort lovers.
- Often — leather interior
- Often — Bose sound system
- Distinctive exterior styling and wheels
Evolution ir Techno
V generation, from 2023Updated Clio trims: Evolution — base, Techno — with more tech.
- LED headlights
- Often — a larger infotainment screen
- Often — more driver assistance systems
V generation (2019–2023) trim comparison
| Zen | Intens | R.S. Line | Initiale Paris | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For city driving, lower price | For daily driving | Sporty looks | For comfort and luxury |
| Wheels (most often) | 15–16 inch | 16–17 inch | 17 inch | 17 inch |
| Interior | Standard | More convenience features | Sport seats and steering wheel | Often — leather, Bose sound system |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€ | €€€ |
For most buyers, the best choice is the Intens with the 1.0 TCe engine or the E-Tech hybrid. The R.S. Line is worth considering for its styling, while the Initiale Paris is the one to go for if interior trim is the priority.
Pros
- Economical engines and low running costs
- Easy to drive around town
- The fifth-gen interior is top-notch and comes with modern safety systems
- A wide range of parts and easy-to-find spares
Cons
- Limited rear space and a small boot
- Early 1.2 TCe engines have high oil consumption
- The dry dual-clutch EDC gearbox is sensitive to driving style
Frequently asked questions
Which Clio generation is best to buy used?
If budget is tight — go for the refreshed fourth-gen Clio (2016–2019) with the 0.9 TCe or 1.5 dCi engine. If a higher-quality interior and more safety kit are important, opt for the fifth generation.
Is the Clio E-Tech hybrid worth buying?
It is, if you mostly drive in the city: that's where the hybrid uses the least fuel, and it doesn't have the usual clutch. Before buying, ask about its service history and make sure there are no error messages on the instrument cluster.
Which Clio engine is the most economical?
In the city — the 1.5 dCi diesel, in town — the E-Tech hybrid. Of the standard petrol engines, the sensible choice is the 1.0 TCe (V generation) or the 0.9 TCe (IV generation).
Is the Clio suitable for a family?
As the sole family car — only for a small family, as there's enough space in the back and the boot for mostly short trips. If you need more room, it's worth considering the IV generation Clio Grandtour or the larger Megane.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
