Renault Clio IV (Phase II ) 1.5 Energy dCi (90 Hp) EDC S&S

The Renault Clio IV (Phase II, 2016): A European Supermini Champion

The Renault Clio IV (Phase II, 2016) represents a significant refresh of the fourth generation of Renault’s highly successful supermini, a segment of compact cars particularly popular in Europe. Launched in 2012, the Clio IV quickly established itself as a design-led contender in its class, and the Phase II update for the 2016 model year brought subtle yet impactful enhancements to keep it competitive. This particular variant, the 1.5 Energy dCi (90 Hp) EDC S&S, epitomizes the European market’s preference for fuel-efficient diesel powertrains combined with modern automatic transmissions, making it a cornerstone of Renault’s sales strategy across the continent. While the Renault Clio is not sold in the United States, its influence and success in international markets highlight global automotive trends and engineering priorities.

As a five-door hatchback, the Clio IV (Phase II) offered a blend of practicality, style, and advanced technology for its segment. It was designed to appeal to a broad demographic, from young drivers to small families, providing an agile and economical solution for urban and interurban travel. The “Energy” designation in its name signifies Renault’s commitment to efficiency, incorporating features like a Start & Stop system to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. This model year, running from 2016 to 2019, solidified the Clio’s reputation as a segment leader, frequently appearing at the top of sales charts in numerous European countries.

Engine & Performance: Efficiency Meets Urban Agility

At the heart of the Renault Clio IV (Phase II, 2016) 1.5 Energy dCi (90 Hp) EDC S&S lies Renault’s venerable K9K diesel engine, a 1.5-liter (1461 cm³) inline four-cylinder unit renowned for its robust nature and exceptional fuel economy. This particular iteration, code K9K 628, delivers 90 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 162.26 lb.-ft. (220 Nm) of torque, available from a low 1750 rpm. The power output of 61.6 horsepower per liter is impressive for a diesel engine of its size, balancing performance with efficiency.

The engine’s design incorporates a common rail direct fuel injection system and a turbocharger with an intercooler, optimizing combustion and power delivery across the rev range. With only two valves per cylinder, the focus is clearly on torque and fuel efficiency rather than high-revving power. A key feature of this powertrain is the inclusion of a Start & Stop (S&S) system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary and restarts it silently when the driver intends to move, significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions in city driving conditions. Furthermore, a particulate filter ensures compliance with stringent Euro 6b emission standards, a critical requirement for European markets.

Power is delivered to the front wheels via a 6-speed Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) automatic transmission. This type of gearbox offers the convenience of an automatic with the efficiency and direct feel of a manual transmission, making it a popular choice for modern compact cars. The combination of the torquey diesel engine and the smooth EDC transmission provides a refined driving experience, particularly suited for stop-and-go traffic and longer highway cruises. Performance figures reflect its practical orientation: acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in a respectable 12.3 seconds, with a top speed of 109.36 mph (176 km/h). However, its true strength lies in its fuel economy, boasting a combined rating of 67.2 US mpg (3.5 l/100 km), with extra-urban driving achieving an outstanding 71.3 US mpg (3.3 l/100 km). This makes it an incredibly economical choice for daily commuting and extended journeys.

Design & Features: Modern Aesthetics and Practicality

The Renault Clio IV (Phase II, 2016) maintained the striking design language introduced with the fourth generation, characterized by its fluid lines, hidden rear door handles (to give the impression of a three-door coupe), and prominent Renault rhombus badge. The Phase II refresh brought subtle but effective updates, including revised front and rear bumpers, new C-shaped LED daytime running lights integrated into the headlights, and updated wheel designs. These changes aimed to give the Clio a more sophisticated and contemporary appearance, aligning it with Renault’s evolving design identity.

Measuring 159.92 inches (4062 mm) in length, 68.15 inches (1731 mm) in width (76.57 inches or 1945 mm including mirrors), and 57.01 inches (1448 mm) in height, the Clio is a true supermini, perfectly sized for navigating crowded European cities while still offering a surprisingly spacious interior for its class. The 101.93-inch (2589 mm) wheelbase contributes to a stable ride and comfortable passenger accommodation for five occupants across its five doors. The vehicle’s kerb weight ranges from 2623.5 to 2656.57 lbs. (1190-1205 kg), contributing to its nimble handling and efficiency.

Inside, the Clio IV (Phase II) featured an improved cabin with higher quality materials and new trim options, addressing some of the criticisms of the pre-facelift model. Key features for a modern car of this era included an intuitive infotainment system, available with navigation and smartphone integration, and a focus on driver-centric controls. Safety was a paramount concern, and the Clio came equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), ventilated discs at the front, and drum brakes at the rear, providing reliable stopping power. The steering utilized a rack and pinion system, offering responsive and predictable handling. Standard tire sizes included 195/55 R16, with optional 205/45 R17 wheels available, further enhancing its sporty appeal.

Technical Specifications

Legacy & Market Impact: A European Mainstay

The Renault Clio series has long been a pillar of the European automotive landscape, consistently ranking among the best-selling cars for decades. The Clio IV, and particularly its Phase II iteration from 2016-2019, continued this impressive legacy, solidifying Renault’s position in the highly competitive B-segment (supermini class). This segment is crucial in Europe, representing a significant portion of new car sales and serving as a gateway for many first-time buyers or as a practical second family car.

The 1.5 Energy dCi (90 Hp) EDC S&S variant played a pivotal role in the Clio IV’s success. Its combination of a highly efficient diesel engine, smooth automatic transmission, and low CO2 emissions (92 g/km) made it exceptionally attractive in markets with high fuel prices and stringent emissions regulations. For many European consumers, a diesel supermini offered an unbeatable blend of low running costs, decent performance for highway cruising, and urban maneuverability. This model was a direct competitor to other European best-sellers such as the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Peugeot 208, and Opel Corsa, often outperforming them in specific markets due to its distinctive styling and competitive pricing.

The Clio IV Phase II was praised for its improved interior quality, advanced infotainment options, and continued emphasis on safety, contributing to its strong reputation for reliability and value. Its “Energy” branding and features like the Start & Stop system highlighted Renault’s commitment to eco-friendly motoring and technological innovation within the mass-market segment. While not a performance powerhouse, its balanced attributes made it a highly practical and enjoyable car for millions of drivers across Europe. The legacy of the Clio IV Phase II is that of a modern, well-rounded supermini that successfully adapted to evolving consumer demands for efficiency, technology, and style, ensuring the Clio nameplate remained synonymous with accessible and desirable compact motoring.