Renault Clio to get Scenic hybrid tech ~ station of gear

Next Renault Clio could use the brand's Hybrid Assist function, but it won't be a plug-in

2016-03-25 15:00

The next Renault Clio could feature mild hybrid tech as seen on the brand’s new Scenic MPV. Speaking to Auto Express at the Geneva Motor Show, Bruno Ancelin – Renault executive vice president, product planning – said: “We want to add electrification that’s affordable. It means we give the customer just enough to deliver low CO2.”

• Best hybrid cars to buy right now

Asked if the more cost-effective Hybrid Assist function from the brand’s new people carrier could feature on the smaller Clio, Ancelin revealed: “Yes, we’ll consider the tech for other cars. It’s not the only initiative to reduce fuel consumption, but it won’t be a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle [PHEV].”

The new Clio, which will replace the Mk4 seen above, could adopt a host of aerodynamic features, along with advanced hybrid tech from the EOLAB concept, which hints at the future. The Renault boss also told us: “There’s no need for massive deployment of PHEV tech on small cars, as the price will be too high.” But Ancelin didn’t rule out plug-in powertrains for larger saloons and crossovers, which are heavier.

• Best superminis on the market

“Weight reduction is always cheaper compared to a PHEV, as battery price is the biggest barrier,” he said. “But we’ll probably need that [PHEV] in the upper segments, depending on future diesel regulations.”

Would a hybrid Renault Clio be a success? Let us know below...

Thank you for reading the article about Renault Clio to get Scenic hybrid tech in blog station of gear If this article was helpful please bookmark this page in your web browser by pressing Ctrl + D on your keyboard keys.