Renault is working on a small crossover/SUV based upon the Clio hatchback, as evidenced by images from our spy photographers. Here, it appears that the French manufacturer is taking aim at the likes of the Ford Fiesta Active, adopting the formula of applying a taller stance and associated SUV styling cues to a B-segment hatchback, here with roof rails and – possibly – dark plastic cladding for the off-road look.
Yet to be bestowed an official name, the Clio-based crossover has been tipped to utilise the CMF-B platform that is set for use with the upcoming Clio, which should include the new 1.3 litre turbo petrol engine which is shared with the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class. This offers 115 hp at 4,500 rpm and 220 Nm of torque from 1,500 rpm in base form, up to 160 hp at 5,500 rpm and 260 Nm from 1,750 Nm in its most potent guise.
Camouflage on the test mule photographed here means there isn’t very much revealed about how it may differ from the Clio it is based upon, save for its taller ride height. At the front, the crossover test mule appears to omit the Clio’s foglamps, which were seen to be located at the corners of the bumper on the hatchback.
While the forthcoming Clio is tipped for an October debut at the Paris Motor Show, this crossover version will likely arrive later on. Currently, Renault’s entrant in the B-segment crossover/SUV realm is the Captur, which has been spotted testing in future coupe crossover guise.
GALLERY: 2019 Renault Clio spyshots
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.
Renault wanted to tie up with Proton after the Savvy but pity Proton told Renault to go to hell. Otherwise, long time ago we will have rebadged Renault cars as PRoton cars and Proton would have been financially healthy 15 yrs ago