Next-gen (V-Platform based) Clio to sport iconic styling

2011 Renault Clio will borrow design elements from Zoe EV

Renault is resting all its hopes on the next-gen Clio that will be based on the V-Platform, on which the Micra is also based. Apparently, the car should look stunning for two reasons – number one is Renault’s models flaunt more than a bit of French flair and number two, it is a Clio, which has always been a good looking car. Well, we do know that the new Clio will be made in India but did we ever think what the Micra could do alongside a good looking car?

“The next Renault Clio will bring sensational, daring design back to the French firm’s model ranks.”

The words above came straight out of Steve Norman, Senior Vice President of Global Marketing for Renault, who gave inside information on the forthcoming supermini recently, describing it as “a car with the makings of an icon”. “Clio IV has the potential to do two things for us: to make us the leading player in Europe’s biggest market sector, and to show a new generation of buyers how fantastic our cars can look,” said Norman.

“I can’t describe just how amazing it looks. It’s a real masterstroke of design. You have to see it for yourself to believe it.” While those fortunate enough to see the Clio will be delighted, rest of the world will get an insight into the design to be shown as an advanced Clio concept at the Paris Motor Show in September. “It’s quite a far-fetched show car, nothing like a conventional supermini,” said Norman. “But it’ll gives you a flavour of what to expect.”

While the picture above of the Zoe is a certain clue, company insiders claim that the new Clio has borrowed several design elements from the Zoe concept, which is a similar sized EV. The Clio IV has been on the drawing board ever since 2009 and Renault’s new design boss Laurens van den Acker ordered several changes to the car when he arrived in May of last year. Van den Acker recently told that the new Clio “has the McDonald’s ‘Big Mac’ factor: it’s a very pretty car – good enough to eat!”

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