Renault Clio Estate – 30% bigger boot, lower load lip

Although Renault released pics and info of the supermini in July, the fourth-gen Renault Clio makes its proper motor show debut at Paris. And it’s a family affair at Porte de Versailles as well – you’ve seen the hot Clio RS 200 Turbo earlier today, now have a look at the new Clio Estate, the wagon-bodied sister that will go on sale early next year in Europe.

It looks very good for a supermini-based wagon, considering the proportions that one has to work with. Renault’s research revealed that estate-car customers are strongly drawn towards the aesthetic design cues of shooting brakes, so designer Yohann Ory kept that in mind while adding in practicality and versatility for good measure.

The profile features a long bonnet and pronounced rear shoulders, and as on the hatchback, the rear door handles are concealed. The smooth, flowing lines are accentuated by the integration of the B and C pillars which are flush with the surface of the glass, while the roof appears to float to emphasise the design’s elegance.

The Estate’s wheelbase is identical to that of the hatchback, although the rear overhang has been extended by 201 mm to 823 mm. This frees up space for 443 litres of cargo space, 130 litres or 30% more than the hatchback. The wagon’s loading sill has been made significantly lower, too.

Thanks to the combination of the cargo area’s flat floor and the ability of the front passenger seat to fold flat, a unique feature in the segment, the new Clio Estate offers “record” maximum load length.

Full details and gallery of the fourth-gen Clio hatchback can be found here. Click here for more on the Clio RS 200 Turbo.

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