When Renault started to change its car names, the famous Renault 5 was replaced by the Renault Clio.
A car that reshaped the small-size European car market. The first generation was launched in 1990 and it was one of the most successful Renault models ever made.
Renault 5 was sold in almost six million units in its 18 years on the market. It was introduced in 1990 as a three and five-door version. But it started with a flat tire since it was available only for left-hand drive. The right-hand-drive version for countries like the UK, Malta, Cyprus, India, or Japan (where it was named Lutetia)
sales started in 1991.
On the outside, the square headlights resembled those found on the 5. A short hood and tall greenhouse made the car look roomy. Its higher rear side was caused by the stiffer suspension in the back, but the car stood leveled when the rear seats were occupied. Depending on the trim level, a rear window wiper was installed.
The 5-door version was a good buy for city use, but not bad for the short and medium distances. There was enough legroom for two adults in the back, but not a big trunk behind them. The folding rear bench improved the load area, but it wasn't available with a split seatback. Inside, there was no exposed metal, unlike in the 5 where some interior panels were left unpadded. The seats were flat for the base models, but depending on the trim level those could have been upgraded to bucket-type.
Various engines were offered for the Clio, starting with a very fuel-efficient unit of 1.2-liter and up to a 1.8-liter 95 hp unit. The Clio was offered with a naturally aspirated diesel as well.