Renault Launch the New Clio Range

in the small car seg ment. It builds on the company fs reputation for building small cars that are characterful, fun to drive and technically accomplished 3 qualities that go back further than the original Clio to the famous Renault 4 and 5 models that preceded it. In the past 20 years, almost 10 million Clio models have been sold in more than 100 countries around the world, with over 1 million in the UK.<br><br> This includes four million of the original version, 4.5 million Clio II (since 1998), and more than 1.2 million Clio III (since 2005). Clio fs distinguished heritage includes the unmatched achievement of having been the only model to be voted Car of the Year on two occasions: first in 1991 at the time of Clio fs launch, and again in 2006, when Clio II received the honour. It was also the first car in its class to obtain a four-star safety rating from Euro NCAP, in 2000, and it went on to also be the first to score the maximum five-star rating, in 2005.<br><br> In 2008 Clio III was Europe fs third best -selling model, claiming a 7.24% share of the small car market with almost 321,000 units sold. In the same year Renault introduced a new estate version, Grand Clio, which quickly found favour, particularly with young families. European sales in its first year reached 53,000, equivalent to 17 per cent of all Clio sales.<br><br> In Ireland, more than 25,000 Clio have been sold since 1999. For the end of 2009, both the three- and five-door hatchbacks gained fresh styling, and revised equipment and powertrain specifications. 4 3.<br><br> OVERVIEW The introduction of New Clio opens a new chapter in a long-running success story that began almost 20 years ago with the launch of the first Renault Clio. Since then, almost 10 million have been sold worldwide, a testament to Renault fs ability to constantly refine the supermini concept and successfully develop engineering and design innovation that meets the changing needs and priorities of its customers. New Clio displays a new exterior design that takes its cues directly from New Mégane, giving the car a powerful presence and strong, contemporary visual identity.<br><br> Inside, the emphasis has been on improving comfort and the all-round finish quality. Everyone on board has generous head, shoulder and kneeroom, there is ample luggage and cabin storage space and the introduction of new upholstery designs and trims raises the interior ambience. A more extensive range structure helps New Clio respond to the needs of an even wider range of customers, both in terms of price and equipment specification.<br><br> A wide range of options and option packs are also offered for further personalisation according to individual taste. These include the new Carminat TomTom navigation system that Renault successfully debuted in 2009 as a new option. Available across the entire range, it is the first affordable integrated system in the supermini segment, offering the advantages of high functionality, robust performance and durability at a price that competes with the portable navigation system market.<br><br> The choice of powertrains has been revised, too, with an even larger proportion achieving the environmental standards in manufacturing, performance and recyclability denoted by Renault fs eco 2 signature. The line-up includes the 5 established 1.2 16V Ethanol and 1.2 16V Quickshift and the highly efficient 1.5 dCi 86 diesel. Renault New Clio features the same acclaimed qualities that enabled its predecessor to secure benchmark status in its class.<br><br> Its comfort, handling, powertrain range, safety credentials and adoption of equipment features worthy of larger cars from the next segment up, make for a versatile package that can sustain Clio fs success. Its extremely rigorous build quality makes it one of the most reliable cars in its class. 4.<br><br> DESIGN The new New Clio displays dynamic styling cues that first appeared on the cface d of New Mégane, identifying it as a thoroughly contemporary Renault model. Inside, the emphasis is on finish quality and comfort. Exterior New Clio sits squarely on the road and has a more streamlined silhouette, thanks to its increased length of 4,027mm (41mm longer than Clio III), 2,575mmm wheelbase, 1,707mm overall width (excluding door mirrors), and 1,493mm height.<br><br> The fresh new frontal appearance includes new headlamps with contours that extend downwards to the grille. The more purposeful look is further accentuated by black headlamp surrounds that feature on Dynamique models and above. The dynamic new front bumper design incorporates a broad intake picked out with black protective mouldings with deeply recessed foglights to either side 3 now a standard feature on all models.<br><br> The new door mirrors have a sleek design, accentuated two-tone finish of the housings. 6 At the rear, the waistline is extended by new light clusters, while the overall stronger dynamic quality of the design is emphasised by a revised bumper design and the relocation of the reversing lights and rear foglights lower down and further out towards the sides of the vehicle. New wheel trim and alloy wheel designs add to New Clio fs visual appeal Interior The interior styling of New Clio was guided by Renault fs desire to ensure a feeling of well-being on board and to raise the quality of finish.<br><br> Dynamique and higher grade models have a soft-touch dashboard, while special attention has been paid to the positioning of the integrated Carminat TomTom satellite navigation system to ensure information is easy and safe for the driver to take in. The driver will feel immediately at home, with controls having been made even more user-friendly, such as short steering wheel-mounted stalks. The switch for the cruise control and speed limiter has been moved to the centre console next to the parking brake and the dashboard display has been changed to make it easier to check whether the system is activated or not.<br><br> The sense of space and comfort can be increased with the optional electric panoramic sunroof. Measuring 1.29m in length and 0.86m in width it is fitted with an integrated sunblind. New interior trims and upholstery designs have been introduced to help create a different interior ambience according to model grade.<br><br> Clio III set new standards in its class for cabin space and comfort when it was launched and the new New Clio inherits those qualities, together with class- leading overall cabin space thanks to rear shoulder room of 1,362mm in three- door versions, and 1,343mm for five-door models. 7 Generous rear headroom (861mm) and kneeroom (162mm) add to the sense of space inside, and the car can comfortably accommodate passengers who are more than 1.88m (6 f2 d) tall. Dimensions 3 New Clio (in mm unless stated otherwise) Type 3 door 5 door Boot volume (litres) Under rear parcel shelf, rear seats in place 288 288 Up to roof, rear seats down 1,038 1,038 Wheelbase 2,575 2,575 Overall length 4,027 4,027 Front overhang 830 830 Rear overhang 622 622 Front track 1,472 1,472 Rear track 1,470 1,470 Overall width (excluding mirrors folded) 1,720 1,720 Overall width (including wing mirrors extended) 2,025 2,025 Unladen height 1,493 1,493 Height with boot open, unladen 2,003 2,00 3 Load sill height 687 687 Front headroom at 14 degrees 3 w/out sunroof 861 861 Front headroom at 14 degrees 3 with sunroof 907 907 Rear headroom at 14 degrees 861 861 Front elbow room 1,400 1,400 Rear elbow room 1,412 1,395 Front shoulder room 1,3 82 1,382 Rear shoulder room 1,362 1,343 Upper width of boot opening 848 848 Lower width of boot opening 894 894 8 Inside width between wheel arches 1,034 1,034 Maximum load length (rear seats down) 1,300 1,300 Height under parcel shelf 541 541 5.<br><br> MODEL RANGE EQUIPMENT AND OPTIONS With a choice of three equipment grades; two petrol engines and one dCi diesel engine there are nine different basic versions of the three and five-door Clio to choose from. Three and five-door hatch Trim Level Body style En gines Power (hp) Transmission Royale Eco 3 - and 5 - door 1.2. 16V E thanol 75 5 - speed manual Royale 5 - door 1.5 dCi 86 86 5 - speed manual Dynamique Eco 5 - door 1.2 16V E thanol 75 5 - speed manual Dynamique 5 - door 1.2 16V Quickshift 75 5 - speed manual Dyn amique 5 - door 1.5 dCi 86 86 5 - speed manual TomTom Edition Eco 5 - door 1.2 16V E thanol 75 5 - speed manual TomTom Edition 5 - door 1.2 16V Quickshift 75 5 - speed manual TomTom Edition 5 - door 1.5 dCi 86 86 5 - speed manual 9 Royale Royale is the entry point to the Clio range.<br><br> Available in three- and five-door form, it comes with the following features as standard: - 4 x 20W RDS radio/CD/MP3 with four speakers and fingertip control RCA socket for connecting portable music players Variable assisted power steering Multi-function trip computer Height-adjustable steering wheel Electric front windows Front fog lights eOcto Debia f cloth upholstery with 3D design Tinted windows ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution) Brake Assist Remote central locking with deadlocks and immobiliser Driver and passenger front auto-adaptive airbags Driver and front passenger lateral airbags ISOFIX child seat mountings R.A.I.D. 3 Renault Anti-Intruder Device (locks all doors when travelling at speeds in excess of 5 mph) Spare wheel Split-folding 60:40 rear seat Height- adjustable driver fs seat Height-adjustable rear headrests Electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors cSee Me Home d headlamps Body coloured door mirrors Satin chrome door handles Folding blade key 10 Dynamique Dynamique, the core seller in the New Clio line-up, adds the following key features to the Royale specification: 15 d e Del Arte f alloy wheels Air conditioning Curtain airbags Automatic headlights and windscreen wipers Smart rear wiper Double optic headlights with black surrounds Electric front windows with anti-pinch function and one-touch control on driver 9s side Soft touch dashboard finish Leather steering wheel and gear knob cSport d cloth upholstery Body coloured side mouldings with satin chrome trim detail TomTom Edition The new Carminat TomTom integrated satellite navigation system is the market fs first affordable integrated satellite navigation system. Launched by Renault in New Grand Scénic , it is now available in New Clio as the core feature in the new TomTom Edition.<br><br> In other respects, TomTom Edition matches the Dynamique specification, with the addition of: - Climate control - Rear privacy glass - Rear electric windows - Cruise control and speed limiter Carminat TomTom integrated satellite navigation New Clio breaks new ground in its segment as the first model to offer an affordable, integrated satellite navigation package. The Carminat TomTom 11 system is available as an option across the range and provided as standard on TomTom Edition. It meets high customer demand for navigation systems, combining the durability, functionality and added security of an integrated system at a price that is competitive with portable systems.<br><br> One of the principal benefits is a large, 5.8 d (15cm) colour screen that is neatly incorporated in New Clio fs new dashboard design. Its size and high position make it easy for the driver to take in information at a glance, minimising the amount of time his or her eyes are taken off the road ahead. Routes are simple to follow with the choic e of 2D and 3D cbird fs eye view d displays.<br><br> Voice instructions are transmitted through the audio system speakers, with volume control adjustable using fingertip controls on the steering wheel. The system comes with its own remote control for quick and safe use. The roof-mounted aerial ensures powerful GPS signal reception, with reliable navigation ensured by the combination of a high-precision gyroscope and a speed sensor linked to the ABS.<br><br> This gives reliable performance at all times, even when the GPS signal is temporarily lost, for example when driving through a tunnel. Renault and Carminat fs engineering teams worked to an exacting brief to produce a system that is robust and durable, capable of withstanding extremes of temperature, vibration, knocks, electromagnetic fields and adverse weather conditions such as sea mist. Carminat TomTom is covered by Renault fs new vehicle warranty.<br><br> The display screen also serves as a central multimedia display. Radio information, telephone lists (when combined with Bluetooth) and MP3 player lists (when combined with cPlug & Music d connection) are automatically shown. 12 Owners can keep fully up-to-date with new data and services using an SD card provided with the Carminat TomTom system.<br><br> Using the card on an internet link, customers can access a wide range of on-line services. These include: - Updating or upgrading the system via free or payable downloads for new maps, data and customisation of certain functions Order maps for other countries Share, correct and save map information using MapShare Pre-trip planning with Google search Obtain e-guides, tuition and other assistance Renault will provide a USB-type SD reader for owners whose computer does not have an SD card function. The on-line services can also be found at www.renault-multimedia.com or at www.renault.ie.<br><br> Optional Equipment Clio owners can take their pick from a wide range of equipment options to help upgrade their car to suit their preferences for comfort, convenience, entertainment and safety features. Alloy wheels, metallic paint and an electric panoramic sunroof can increase the style factor, while safety and life on board options include rear parking sensors, ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) with traction and understeer control, and Carminat TomTom navigation system. 6.<br><br> ENGINES AND TRANSMISSIONS Diesel engines Engine 1.5 dCi 86 Capacity (cc) 1,461 Max Power (hp) 86 @ 3,750rpm Max Torque (Nm) 200 @ 1,900rpm Top Speed ( k m / h) 1 74 0 - 62 km/ h (secs) 12.7 Urban 5.2 13 litres/100km Extra - urban litres/100km 4 Combined litres/100km 5.5 CO 2 (g/km) 4.4 Transmission 5 - manual Petrol engines Engine 1.2 16V Ethanol 1.2 16V Quickshift Capacity (cc) 1,149 1,149 Max Power (hp) 75 @ 5,500rpm 75 @ 5,500rpm Max Torque (Nm) 105 @ 4,250rpm 108 @ 4,250rpm Top Speed (km/h) 167 171 0 - 62mph (secs) 13.4 14.9 Urban litres/100km 7.9 7.1 Extra - urban litres/100km 4.7 4.7 Combined litres/100km 5.9 5.6 CO 2 (g/km) 139 133 Transmission 5 - manual 5 - robotised Responsive, environmentally efficient powertrains An extensive range of engines and transmissions are offered in New Clio, enabling owners to profit fully from the car fs dynamic capabilities. Among them the 1.2 16V Ethanol and 1.2 16V Quickshift petrol engines and the dCi 86 diesel comply with the criteria required to earn Renault fs eco 2 signature, assuring a high level of environmental performance in manufacturing, operation and end-of-life recycling. The eco 2 signature verifies that a particular model complies with the following standards: - 14 CO 2 emissions of less than 140g/km, or an engine capable of running on biofuel Manufactured at a factory with ISO 14001 certification 95% recyclable at end-of-life and with a plastic content that is at least 5% recycled material Across the New Clio range, all the nine models carry the eco 2 signature.<br><br> In 2009, Clio was the best vehicle in its class for average CO 2 emissions (less than 130g/km). Petrol engines Two petrol engines are available: the established 1.2 16V Ethanol and 1.2 16V Quickshift. 1.2 16V ETHANOL The new 1.2 16V Ethanol engine produces maximum power of 75hp at 5500rpm with peak torque of 105Nm at 4,250rpm.<br><br> The normally-aspirated powerplant is responsive and delivers impressive performance: it will accelerate New Clio from standstill to 100 km/h in 13.4 seconds. At the same time, fuel economy is good with an official figure of 5.9 litres/100km in combined cycle driving, and CO 2 emissions of 139g/km, figures achieved through specific tuning of the engine and the use of a six-speed manual gearbox. The engine is a development of the 1,149 unit.<br><br> The extra power and torque have been gained through a series of modifications: - Intake airflow rate is increased thanks to a specific throttle valve unit and aluminium plenum chambers, plus optimisation of the intake port diameter and length. To improve airflow into the engine and facilitate gas flow, special attention was paid to the aerodynamic quality of the valve seats. The camshaft calibration has also been modified to achieve a longer opening of the valves and higher valve lift (11mm compared to an average lift of 9mm).<br><br> 15 The geometry of the combustion chambers and pistons has led to a high compression ratio of 11.0:1, giving enhanced combustion quality and this greater efficiency and cleaner emissions. The continuously variable camshaft ensures improved performance at all engine speeds. The actuator adjusts the timing to optimise valve opening and closing.<br><br> The engine incorporates a compact, four-in-one thin-walled steel exhaust manifold with a catalytic converter, giving a first class balance between performance and minimising emissions. 1.2 16V QUICKSHIFT With a cubic capacity of 1,149cc, the 1.2 16V Quickshift engine has a power output of 75hp at 5,500rpm and maximum torque of 108Nm at 4,250rpm, giving responsive performance across a wide range of engine speeds and improved fuel efficiency. This engine gives New Clio responsive pick-up from low engine speeds and fuel consumption of 5.6 litres/100km (combined cycle), with emissions of 133g/km of CO 2 .<br><br> The 1.5 dCi 86 diesel engine Maximum torque is 200Nm at 1,900rpm for the dCi 86, giving responsive performance from very low engine speeds and good fuel efficiency. The combined cycle fuel consumption and CO 2 emissions performance of the dCi 86 are 4.4 litres/100km and 116g/km. Transmissions 16 The transmission available in the New Clio range is five-speed manual with the 1.2 16V Ethanol and dCi 86 engines, and a five-speed robotised gearbox with 1.2 16V Quicksift engine.<br><br> 7. TECHNICAL Suspension New Clio uses the same effective suspension design as Clio III. The MacPherson-type front suspension and rectangular lower arm optimise road holding and comfort.<br><br> A high degree of transverse stiffness contributes to good roadholding and on-board comfort. The system is connected to an isolated subframe, which also contributes to comfort by combating the transmission of noise and vibration to the cabin. The rear suspension features a programmed deflection torsion beam and coil springs.<br><br> For optimal body roll control, the flexible beam works in conjunction with an anti-roll bar. The combination of efficient shock absorbing and long suspension travel guarantees precision control and comfortable handling. Using elasto-kinematic materials for both the front and rear suspensions helps absorb road surface imperfections and also plays an important role in smooth, efficient chassis performance.<br><br> Wheels, tyres and steering Two wheel diameters (15 d and 16 d) are available with a range of three widt hs: 165 or 185mm (15 d rims), and 195mm (16 d rims). Extensive research went into tyre stiffness with a view to optimising Clio fs safe, efficient handling and actively contributing to shorter braking distances. Further research into reducing tyre rolling resistance has helped cut fuel consumption.<br><br> 17 The variable power-assisted steering is calibrated to favour smooth, precise steering. The turning radius between kerbs is a tight 10.3m with the 165 tyre; 10.7 with the 185 tyre; and 11.3 with the 195 tyre. Aerodynamics To promote low CO 2 emissions, detailed attention was paid to aerodynamics, reducing friction and minimising weight.<br><br> Drag was reduced by optimising the design of the lower part of the platform, including a smooth floor, additional fairings and deflectors, and a flexible front spoiler. Using very high tensile steel, aluminium, noryl and polypropylene for the chassis and body allowed the car fs weight to be kept down. The aluminium bonnet, for example, represents just half the weight of the equivalent part made from steel.<br><br> Recyclability Although recyclable materials account for 95% of the car fs weight, there is no compromise in quality or performance. The design of parts with a view to their recyclability at the end of their useful life has led Renault and its suppliers to develop innovative solutions and to integrate this factor into the design and quality processes. The use of polypropylene is a positive step forward in this area.<br><br> Parts marking has been expanded to make recycling simpler: plastic components weighing more than 100g and all rubber/elastomer parts weighing more than 200g are marked with a symbol indicating their composition. 8. SAFETY AND SECURITY New Clio benefits fully from Renault fs extensive expertise in both active and passive safety.<br><br> The quality of the suspension design and a range of driver aids 3 ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, engine torque overrun control and optional ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) with CSV understeer control and traction control 3 contribute to an outstanding level of active safety. The same is 18 true of the brakes: large 260 x 20mm ventilated front discs on all models, with 240 x 8mm rear discs or drums according engine. The car is built on the same platform as Clio III, which earned the maximum 5- star rating in independent Euro NCAP crash testing.<br><br> Likewise it is equipped with the third generation Renault System for Restraint and Protection (SRP3), a seal- of-quality for the level of protection provided for everyone on board. Clio is equipped with up to six airbags as standard: driver and front passenger auto-adaptive airbags, lateral airbags and curtain airbags (standard on Dynamique grade and higher). Four ISOFIX anchorage points are built into the rear side seats and front pa ssenger seat.<br><br> Child locks are fitted, controlled from the driver fs door, and the front passenger airbag can be deactivated for the safe installation of a child seat. 9. INSURANCE, SERVICING AND WARRANTIES New Clio benefits from the first class reliability demonstrated by Clio III in both independent and in-house studies.<br><br> For example, the latest report (2008) from the German motoring organisation ADAC rates Clio quality as cexcellent d after one, two and three years of ownership. Its reliability is also highlighted by the J.D. Power and Associates customer satisfaction survey in France, where 90 per cent of owners of vehicles an average two-and-half-years old reported they were fully satisfied both with their car and the level of service they received from Renault.<br><br> New Clio is designed with attention to detail to ensure low running costs and high durability. With 95% of its weight recyclable, it is also environmentally friendly and conforms perfectly to Renault fs strategy of sustainable development. 19 Low running costs and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty Service intervals are widely spaced, with oil changes required every 30,000 km for petrol engines, every 20,000 km in the case of the diesel.<br><br> Spark plugs and air filters need replacing only every 60,000 km, while timing belts have a life expectancy of 90,000 km, and the fuel filter (diesel models) will run for 40,000 km. To bring down repair bills and therefore the cost of insurance, New Clio features components specially designed to withstand small knocks, notably with a view to its RCAR (Research Council for Automobile Repairs) test rating. Using an aluminium profile for the front cross member and polypropylene for the rear beam ensures that practically all energy is absorbed in the event of a low speed impact.<br><br> These materials also make repairs simpler and quicker to accomplish. There is an emphasis on durability, too, as in the choice of a stainless steel exhaust with a 10-year life expectancy. All new New Clio models are covered by a three-year warranty package, the first two years with unlimited mileage manufacturer warranty and the third up to a maximum 100,000 km.<br><br> The fully galvanised engine subframe and injection of wax into box sections support the provision of a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. 10. PRODUCTION New Clio is manufactured in Valladolid (Spain), Bursa (Turkey), in addition to Flins and Dieppe in France.<br><br> The 3 and 5 door versions are made in Spain, with Grand Clio production based at Bursa. More than 324,000 versions of Clio (III) were produced by all of the factories combined in 2008. 20 Development and production- related investment was kept to ¬50 million, which is about half the figure usually associated with new-phase vehicles.<br><br> Two main factors help achieve this saving: the targeting of investment in areas which are most visible, such as design; and the successful carry-over of parts and components. 21 11. MODEL CHRONOLOGY 1990 The first generation Clio is launched.<br><br> Although it takes the place of the Renault 5 in the model line - up, the 5 continues to play a role as the budget - priced Campus. 1991 Clio claims the European Car of the Year title 1998 Clio II, the second generation of Renault fs supermini, makes its debut in March. Almost five million sold during its production run.<br><br> ePa pa and Nicole f television ad campaign airs for first time. Clio Renaultsport V6 Concept unveiled at Paris motor show, the first of the special performance Clio models. Launches July 1999.<br><br> 2002 Thierry Henry becomes new face of Clio television ad campaign, following Helene Mahieu with first utterance of eVa Va Voom f 2004 January - Clio Renaultsport V6 255 launches in UK. March 3 750,000 Clios sold in 12 years 2005 The all - new Clio III is revealed in June. First deliveries of three - door models to UK custom ers begin in October.<br><br> Clio becomes the eighth new Renault model to gain the top 5 - star Euro NCAP rating for adult occupant protection. Clio is voted European Car of the Year. 2006 The five - door Clio is launched in January.<br><br> The Clio Renaultsport 197 makes its debut in May. The 2.0 VVT 138 engine is added to the range in October. 2007 The sports - themed Clio Rip Curl joins the line - up in March.<br><br> The clean, efficient and technically advanced 1.2 Turbo 100 engine joins the Clio range, superseding the 1.4 16V pe trol unit. 2008 Clio grade structure and range of engines and transmissions is revised and simplified. June 3 ordering opens for Grand Clio 2009 New Clio range (3 - and 5 - door ) , ordering opens in September with revised styling .<br><br> 22 12. PRICING Full pricing for the New Clio range is outlined below : 3-door Version Engine CO 2 g/km RRP Royale Eco 1.2 16V E thanol 139 ¬13,990 5-door Version Engine CO 2 g/km RRP Royale Eco 1.2 16V Ethanol 139 ¬14,690 Dynamique Eco 1.2 16V Ethanol 139 ¬15,990 TomTom Edition Eco 1.2 16V Ethanol 139 ¬16,890 Dynamique 1.2 16V Quickshift 133 ¬17,990 TomTom Edition 1.2 16V Quickshi ft 133 ¬18,890 Royale 1.5 dCi 86 116 ¬16,790 Dynamique 1.5 dCi 86 116 ¬18,090 TomTom Edition 1.5 dCi 86 116 ¬18,990 ENDS For further information please contact: Kelley Cousins on 01 649 6493 / 086 269 5953; kelley@pembrokecomms.ie Sarah Cunningham on 01 649 6430; sarahc@pembrokecomms.ie

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