Since the launch of the original model in 1990, 11.5 million Clios have been sold in more than 115 countries.

Today, a new chapter in Clio's history is about to be written with the unveiling of the fourth-generation version.

"New Clio is set to make a real mark. In addition to an unprecedented package of innovations, its design marks a major shift from that of previous models," says Carlos Tavares, Chief Operating Officer

The new Renault Clio is the first production model to give full expression to the Renault design renaissance inspired by Laurens van den Acker, Senior Vice-President, Corporate Design. The promise was to take the style and emotion of the brand's latest concept cars and carry them over to production models. Renault's new supermini fulfils that promise.

"New Renault Clio was conceived as a piece of sensuous sculpture which stimulates desire. Like muscles, its curves express the dynamism radiated by the DeZir concept car. No acute or aggressive angles, just voluptuous curves that make you want to go up to it and caress it," says Van den Acker.

The Clio stands out through its front-end design, which features a prominent Renault logo, set bold and upright to a gloss black background, an arrangement first seen on the DeZir concept car. This frontal treatment is further emphasised by the headlights - the lower edge of which is picked out in chrome - and LED daytime running lights. Offered only in five-door form, the Clio has a sporty silhouette, accentuated by integrated rear door handles concealed close to the rear quarter lights. In comparison to its predecessor, it packs extra dynamism and personality thanks to a lower ride height, wider tracks, wheels pushed out wide within the arches, and a reduction in the gap between the wheels and wheel arches.

The interior of the new Clio features a dashboard sculpted in the shape of an aircraft wing, an optimally-positioned multimedia system on the centre console, a wide range of colour options, a digital speedometer, comfortable seats and chrome and gloss-black trim highlights.

Exterior and interior personalisation was dialled into the Clio's design process at the outset. From launch, buyers will be able to personalise the outside of their car with a selection of colour touches to the front grille, rear and side door inserts. To personalise the interior, the menu covers the dashboard, door panels, steering wheel, grab handles, gear lever and air vent surrounds, upholstery materials and optional floor mats.

The Clio combines low fuel consumption with driving pleasure thanks to a significantly updated range of petrol and diesel engines. The two petrol engines (Energy TCe 90 and TCe 120) combine very low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions with responsive performance and mid-range acceleration.

The Clio is the first Renault model to feature the new three-cylinder petrol turbocharged Energy TCe 90 engine. This is the first three-cylinder powerplant ever produced by Renault and make 66kW and 135Nm at 2000rpm.

The latest addition to the Energy family is a new 66kW version of the 1.5 dCi, equipped with Stop&Start. It makes 220Nm from 1750rpm, an increase of 20Nm over the current dCi 85.

The Clio will alsi be available with the TCe 120 engine mated to six-speed EDC transmission (Efficient Dual Clutch), a first for Renault in the B segment. This four-cylinder, 1.2-litre engine makes 88kW and 190Nm from 1750rpm.