Renault Clio Fuel Economy Guide: Real-World MPG, Hybrid Efficiency & Best Engines

The Renault Clio stands tall as one of Britain’s favourite compact hatchbacks — a car celebrated for blending comfort, urban agility, and wallet-friendly running costs. With over 1.3 million units sold in the UK since 1991, it carved its place as a smart, stylish, and frugal choice for budget-conscious drivers.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore Renault Clio fuel economy, covering real-world MPG, official figures, hybrid efficiency, the best engines for motorway vs. city driving, and historical fuel consumption performance across model years. Our goal is simple — help UK buyers choose the most efficient Clio variant for their lifestyle and driving habits.


Content in this publication

Why the Renault Clio Is a Fuel-Saving Icon

The Clio’s enduring success owes much to its frugal powertrains — from petrol TCe units to diesel dCi options and Renault’s standout E-Tech hybrid system. With the latest facelift offering an Alpine-inspired sporty trim and modern technology, the Clio remains stylish while delivering impressive fuel figures.

Key efficiency benefits include:

  • Lightweight chassis engineering
  • Aerodynamic design updates
  • Advanced hybrid energy-recapture tech
  • Small-capacity turbo engines designed for everyday real-world economy

Official MPG Figures: Petrol vs Hybrid vs Diesel

Latest UK Engine Line-up & Efficiency Ratings

EngineFuelTransmissionOfficial MPGCO₂ (g/km)Best For
TCe 90PetrolManualUp to 54.3 mpg118–120Everyday economy & motorway commuters
E-Tech 145 HybridPetrol-ElectricAutoUp to 67.3 mpg97Best overall efficiency & urban driving
Blue dCi 85 (older)DieselManual67.3 mpg94High-mileage motorway drivers

The E-Tech self-charging hybrid boasts the best balance of economy and emissions without needing a plug-in charge.

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Real-World Fuel Economy Results

True efficiency based on mixed UK driving

EngineReal-World MPGDriving Notes
TCe 90 Petrol~50 mpgBest when driven smoothly; town & motorway mix
E-Tech Hybrid50–60 mpgHigher efficiency in city stop-start traffic
Diesel dCi60–70 mpgIdeal for long-distance motorway mileage

Urban drivers will often beat motorway MPG with the Clio hybrid, thanks to electric-motor bias at low speeds.


Hybrid E-Tech Fuel Economy Explained

Renault’s E-Tech hybrid tech delivers electric-first driving in towns, recycling braking energy to extend EV moments and reduce petrol consumption.

Hybrid MPG Breakdown

Driving TypeExpected MPG
City / Slow Traffic60–70 mpg (EV mode active often)
Motorway50–55 mpg
Rural / A-Roads55–60 mpg

Renault Clio MPG by Variant (Detailed Reference Table)

Below is a curated and corrected MPG summary referencing the database provided in the source text — reorganised for clarity and buyer comparison.

Diesel MPG (dCi 85 / dCi 90)

VariantTransmissionCombined MPGCityHighway
Blue dCi 85Manual67.3 mpg57.678.5
dCi 90Manual56.5–58.949.6–51.465.7–70.6
dCi 90Auto EDC56–57.652–5564–65.7

Petrol TCe 90

VariantGearboxCombinedCityHighway
TCe 90Manual47–53.3 mpg38–4255–63

Hybrid E-Tech 140/145

VariantGearboxCombinedCityHighway
E-Tech 140/145Auto62.8–65.7 mpg60–6774

City vs Motorway Fuel Economy Performance

Best for Town/City

✅ E-Tech hybrid
✅ TCe 90 petrol (short trips)

Best for Motorway

✅ Diesel dCi
✅ TCe 90 (steady motorway cruising)

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Fuel-Saving Tips for Renault Clio Owners

To maximise MPG:

  • Use Eco mode where available
  • Anticipate braking — hybrids gain more EV time
  • Maintain tyre pressures (check monthly)
  • Avoid short trips on cold engines
  • Drive at steady speeds; avoid harsh throttle inputs

Recommended Engines by Driver Type

Driver ProfileBest Engine ChoiceWhy
City commuterE-Tech HybridEV city driving, low running costs
Motorway cruiserBlue dCi 85Best long-distance efficiency
First-time buyerTCe 90Low insurance + good fuel economy
Mixed urban/A-roadHybrid or TCe 90Versatility and economy

Key Takeaways

  • Hybrid Clio leads urban efficiency with up to 67.3 mpg
  • Diesels still rule motorways, returning near 70 mpg
  • TCe petrol remains a sensible, efficient pick for first-time buyers
  • Real-world UK economy sits around 50–60 mpg, depending on engine & driving style

FAQs

Is the Renault Clio good on fuel?

Yes — the newest hybrid returns up to 67.3 mpg, and petrol versions regularly achieve 50+ mpg.

Which Clio engine is the most economical?

The E-Tech hybrid leads in mixed driving, while Blue dCi diesels excel on motorways.

Does the Clio hybrid need charging?

No — it’s a self-charging hybrid.

What MPG should I expect in real UK driving?

Expect 50–60 mpg depending on engine and driving style.

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Is the Clio a good first car?

Absolutely. Low running costs, easy handling, and affordable insurance make it ideal for first-time buyers.

If you want to know other articles similar to Renault Clio Fuel Economy Guide: Real-World MPG, Hybrid Efficiency & Best Engines you can visit the category Driving.

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