2013-2016 Renault Clio IV Grandtour (Phase I) 0.9 Energy Tce (90 Hp) Start&Stop

The Renault Clio IV Grandtour (Phase I) 0.9 Energy TCe (90 hp) Start&Stop, produced from 2013 to 2016, represents a significant offering within the fourth generation of Renault’s popular Clio model. This variant combined the practicality of the Grandtour (estate/wagon) body style with Renault’s innovative 0.9-liter turbocharged gasoline engine. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range trim within the Clio IV lineup, it targeted buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency, affordability, and a reasonable level of practicality. While never officially sold in North America, the Clio IV Grandtour exemplifies Renault’s focus on maximizing space and minimizing running costs for the European market, competing directly with vehicles like the Peugeot 208 SW, Skoda Fabia Estate, and Dacia Logan MCV.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The core of the Renault Clio IV Grandtour 0.9 Energy TCe (90 hp) is the H4B 408 engine, a 0.9-liter (899 cc) three-cylinder, twelve-valve gasoline engine. This engine is a key example of Renault’s downsizing strategy, utilizing turbocharging to achieve performance comparable to larger displacement engines while improving fuel economy and reducing emissions. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain, operating with variable valve timing on the intake side to optimize performance across the rev range. The cylinder head is constructed from aluminum alloy, contributing to weight reduction.

Fuel delivery is managed by a Bosch-supplied direct fuel injection system operating at a maximum pressure of 250 bar. This direct injection system allows for precise fuel metering and improved combustion efficiency. The engine also incorporates a turbocharger with an integrated intercooler, enhancing air density and boosting power output. The turbocharger is a Honeywell unit, specifically designed for this engine application. The compression ratio is set at 10.5:1, a balance between efficiency and performance. The Start&Stop system, standard on this variant, utilizes a reinforced starter motor and a dual-mass flywheel to ensure smooth and reliable engine restarts.

The transmission paired with the 0.9 TCe engine in this configuration is a five-speed manual gearbox. While an Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) automatic transmission was available on other Clio IV variants, the 90 hp version was exclusively offered with the manual. The gearbox is designed for smooth shifting and durability, with gear ratios optimized for fuel efficiency and everyday driving. The final drive ratio is 4.31, contributing to the car’s overall gearing for both acceleration and highway cruising.

Engine Specifications

The H4B 408 engine produces 90 horsepower (66 kW) at 5250 rpm and 135 Nm (99.57 lb-ft) of torque at 2500 rpm. This torque figure, available relatively low in the rev range, provides good responsiveness for urban driving and overtaking maneuvers. The engine is designed to run on 95 RON (Research Octane Number) gasoline, although it can tolerate 91 RON fuel with a slight reduction in performance. The engine block is constructed from cast iron for durability, while the cylinder head is aluminum alloy.

Driving Characteristics

The Renault Clio IV Grandtour 0.9 TCe (90 hp) offers a driving experience focused on efficiency and ease of use rather than outright performance. The 0-60 mph acceleration time is approximately 11.6 seconds, and the top speed is around 113 mph (182 km/h). While these figures aren’t particularly impressive, they are adequate for typical European driving conditions, which often involve lower speed limits and more congested roads. The engine’s low-end torque provides sufficient power for everyday driving, and the five-speed manual transmission allows for precise control over gear selection.

Compared to the 1.2 TCe (112 hp) version of the Clio IV, the 0.9 TCe feels noticeably less powerful, particularly when fully loaded or climbing hills. However, the 0.9 TCe offers superior fuel economy. The manual transmission, while engaging, requires more frequent shifting than the EDC automatic available on higher-spec models. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride over uneven surfaces, although it can feel slightly soft in corners. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Clio IV Grandtour 0.9 TCe (90 hp) typically came equipped with a base level of features, reflecting its position as an entry-level trim. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). Safety features such as driver and passenger airbags, and stability control (ESC) were also standard.

Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a dark grey or black color scheme. The dashboard featured a simple and functional design, with a central touchscreen display available as an optional extra. Optional extras included alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trim levels, such as the “Dynamique” and “Expression” variants, added features like automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers. The Grandtour body style itself added a significant amount of practicality, offering approximately 443 liters of cargo space with the rear seats up, and 1386 liters with the rear seats folded down.

Chassis & Braking

The Clio IV Grandtour 0.9 TCe utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between comfort and handling, although it is not as sophisticated as the independent rear suspension found on some higher-spec Clio models. The front suspension features coil springs and dampers, while the rear suspension utilizes a stabilizer bar to reduce body roll.

The braking system consists of ventilated disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. This configuration is typical for vehicles in this weight class and price range. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The steering system is an electric power-assisted steering (EPS) system, offering light and precise steering feel.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Renault Clio IV Grandtour 0.9 TCe (90 hp) was generally well-received by European automotive critics for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability. However, some reviewers criticized its lack of outright performance and the somewhat basic interior trim. Compared to the 1.2 TCe version, the 0.9 TCe offered significantly better fuel economy, achieving a combined fuel consumption of around 4.5 liters per 100 kilometers (52.3 US mpg), but at the expense of performance. The 1.5 dCi diesel variant offered even better fuel economy, but with a higher purchase price and the potential for higher maintenance costs. The Clio IV Grandtour, in general, was praised for its stylish design and improved interior quality compared to previous generations.

Technical Specifications

Legacy

The Renault Clio IV Grandtour 0.9 TCe (90 hp) remains a relatively common sight on European roads today. The H4B 408 engine, while not known for being exceptionally durable, has proven to be generally reliable with regular maintenance. Common issues include turbocharger failure and problems with the direct injection system, but these are not widespread. On the used car market, these models are typically offered at affordable prices, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The combination of fuel efficiency, practicality, and low running costs continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers. The Clio IV Grandtour, in general, helped solidify Renault’s position as a leader in the European B-segment, and the 0.9 TCe engine demonstrated Renault’s commitment to developing innovative and efficient powertrain technologies.