Renault Clio IV Grandtour (Phase II ) 1.5 dCi (75 Hp)

The Renault Clio IV Grandtour (Phase II, 2016) 1.5 dCi (75 Hp): A European Workhorse

The Renault Clio IV Grandtour (Phase II, 2016) 1.5 dCi (75 Hp) represents a significant offering in the highly competitive European B-segment (subcompact) market. Produced between 2018 and 2020, this specific variant of the Clio IV Grandtour, or estate car as it’s known in the US, was part of the refreshed Phase II generation. It carved out a niche for itself by combining the compact dimensions and agile handling of the popular Clio hatchback with the enhanced practicality and cargo volume of a station wagon body style. As a front-wheel-drive vehicle powered by a highly efficient diesel internal combustion engine, it was specifically designed to meet the demands of European consumers who prioritize fuel economy, low emissions, and versatile cargo space for daily commuting and family needs. While never officially sold in the United States, this model exemplifies the sophisticated engineering and market-specific solutions prevalent in the European automotive landscape, offering a compelling package of efficiency and utility in a compact footprint.

Engine & Performance: The Efficient 1.5 dCi Powertrain

At the heart of the Renault Clio IV Grandtour (Phase II, 2016) 1.5 dCi (75 Hp) lies Renault’s venerable K9K 628 diesel engine, a powerplant renowned for its reliability and exceptional fuel efficiency across various Renault and Nissan models. This inline four-cylinder engine boasts a displacement of 1.5 liters (1461 cubic centimeters or 89.16 cubic inches), featuring a two-valve-per-cylinder configuration. Fuel delivery is handled by a sophisticated Diesel Commonrail injection system, ensuring precise fuel metering and optimal combustion. To further enhance performance and efficiency, the engine is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler, maximizing power output from its relatively small displacement.

Despite its modest 75 horsepower (Hp) output at 4000 rpm, the engine truly shines in its torque delivery, providing a robust 154.89 lb.-ft. (210 Nm) available from a low 2000 rpm. This characteristic high torque at low engine speeds is a hallmark of modern diesel engines, contributing to effortless urban driving and relaxed highway cruising, even when carrying a full load or towing. Power is sent to the front wheels via a smooth-shifting 5-speed manual transmission, a setup chosen for its direct engagement and contribution to overall fuel economy.

In terms of performance, the Clio IV Grandtour 1.5 dCi (75 Hp) is not built for outright speed but for practical, everyday usability. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 11.4 seconds, with a top speed of 112.47 mph (181 km/h). Where this powertrain truly excels is in its fuel economy. It achieves an outstanding combined fuel consumption of 58.8 US mpg (4 liters per 100 km), making it an incredibly economical choice for long-distance travel and daily commutes. Its low CO2 emissions of 104 g/km and compliance with the stringent Euro 6 emission standard further underscore its environmental consciousness, a critical factor for European buyers and regulations. The engine also features a particulate filter, a standard component in modern diesel vehicles designed to reduce harmful emissions.

Design & Features: Practicality Meets Style in the Renault Clio IV Grandtour

The Renault Clio IV Grandtour (Phase II, 2016) presented a compelling blend of contemporary design and practical utility. Building upon the stylish foundation of the fourth-generation Clio hatchback, the Grandtour variant extended the wheelbase and rear overhang to create a spacious and versatile station wagon body. Its five-door, five-seat configuration made it an ideal choice for small families or individuals requiring more cargo capacity than a conventional hatchback could offer. The Phase II refresh, introduced in 2016 and covering models from 2018-2020, brought subtle exterior enhancements, including updated lighting signatures, revised grille designs, and new wheel options, keeping its aesthetic appeal fresh and modern.

Measuring 167.99 inches (4267 mm) in length, 68.19 inches (1732 mm) in width (76.57 inches or 1945 mm including mirrors), and 58.07 inches (1475 mm) in height, the Clio Grandtour maintains a relatively compact footprint, making it nimble for urban environments while providing ample interior space. The 101.93-inch (2589 mm) wheelbase contributes to a stable ride, and the minimum turning circle of 36.09 feet (11.0 m) ensures excellent maneuverability in tight spaces.

Inside, the Clio Grandtour prioritizes functionality and comfort. The most significant advantage of the Grandtour body style is its cargo capacity. With a minimum trunk space of 15.72 cubic feet (445 liters), it offers substantially more room than its hatchback sibling, making it perfect for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. While specific interior features aren’t fully detailed in the provided data, as a modern compact car from 2018-2020, it would typically include a range of standard amenities such as air conditioning, power windows, and an infotainment system with connectivity options, contributing to a comfortable and connected driving experience.

The vehicle’s chassis and drivetrain architecture are designed for efficiency and ease of driving. It features front-wheel drive, with an internal combustion engine mounted transversely at the front. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup, complemented by electric power steering for light and precise control. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and traditional drum brakes at the rear, supported by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety during emergency stops. The car rides on either 185/65 R15 or 195/55 R16 tires, depending on the trim, paired with 15-inch or 16-inch wheel rims, providing a comfortable ride quality suitable for varied road conditions.

Technical Specifications

Legacy & Market Impact of the Renault Clio IV Grandtour (Phase II, 2016) 1.5 dCi (75 Hp)

The Renault Clio is a cornerstone model for the French automaker, consistently ranking among Europe’s best-selling subcompact cars for decades. The fourth generation, especially in its Grandtour (station wagon) guise, continued this legacy by offering a compelling proposition to a specific segment of the European market. The Renault Clio IV Grandtour (Phase II, 2016) 1.5 dCi (75 Hp) was particularly significant for its role as an accessible, economical, and practical family vehicle or fleet car in countries where diesel engines and compact station wagons remained highly popular.

Its reputation was built on several pillars: its striking design, which brought a youthful and dynamic aesthetic to the often conservative station wagon segment; its robust and incredibly fuel-efficient 1.5 dCi engine; and its impressive practicality relative to its compact dimensions. The Grandtour offered a crucial advantage over the hatchback with its larger trunk space and more usable cargo area, appealing to buyers who needed more utility without stepping up to a larger, more expensive vehicle or a burgeoning SUV.

In its primary European market, the Clio IV Grandtour faced stiff competition from other B-segment wagons, such as the Skoda Fabia Combi and, to a lesser extent, the SEAT Ibiza ST (though the latter was phased out around this time). It also contended with the rising popularity of compact crossovers, which began to draw buyers away from traditional wagons. Despite this, the Clio Grandtour held its own by offering a more conventional, car-like driving experience and, crucially, often superior fuel economy, especially with the diesel powertrains.

The 1.5 dCi engine, in particular, is an engineering success story for Renault-Nissan. It has powered millions of vehicles across different segments and brands, earning a reputation for its blend of low running costs, decent performance, and environmental compliance (Euro 6 in this instance). For the 75 Hp variant, it provided a perfect balance for urban and suburban driving, offering adequate power for daily tasks while delivering exceptional mileage.

The historical significance of the Clio IV Grandtour lies in its continuation of Renault’s commitment to offering diverse body styles to meet varied consumer needs. It showcased how a compact platform could be stretched and adapted to provide family-friendly practicality without sacrificing style or efficiency. Its absence from the North American market highlights the fundamental differences in automotive preferences between continents; American consumers generally favor larger vehicles, SUVs, and gasoline engines over compact diesel wagons. However, for its intended audience, the Renault Clio IV Grandtour (Phase II, 2016) 1.5 dCi (75 Hp) was a highly capable, economical, and well-regarded vehicle that played a vital role in keeping European families and businesses moving efficiently.