The Renault Clio V (Phase I) 1.5 Blue dCi (115 Hp) represents a significant iteration of Renault’s long-running and highly successful Clio model, a cornerstone of the European B-segment (subcompact car class). Introduced in 2019, the fifth generation continued a legacy that began in 1990, offering a blend of practicality, modern aesthetics, and exceptional fuel efficiency. This particular variant, produced from June 2019 to December 2020, was specifically designed to appeal to European drivers seeking a cost-effective and versatile vehicle. While the Renault Clio has never been officially sold in the United States, understanding its engineering and market positioning provides valuable insight into global automotive trends and the competitive European landscape.
Engine & Performance: The 1.5 Blue dCi Powertrain
The Renault Clio V (Phase I) 1.5 Blue dCi (115 Hp) is powered by a highly optimized 1.5-liter (1461 cm3 or 89.16 cu. in.) Blue dCi turbodiesel engine, designated with the engine code K9K 872. This inline-four cylinder unit, transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, showcases Renault’s expertise in diesel engine development. It generates 115 horsepower at 3750 rpm, achieving a power-to-liter ratio of 78.7 Hp/l. Crucially, the engine produces 191.77 lb.-ft. (260 Nm) of torque at a low 2000 rpm, providing strong mid-range acceleration and responsiveness suitable for both city driving and highway cruising.
Power is delivered to the front wheels through a slick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission, a popular choice in Europe for its engaging driving experience and efficiency. This powertrain configuration allows the Clio to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 9.4 seconds (0-100 km/h in 9.9 seconds) and reach a top speed of 122.41 mph (197 km/h). These figures position the Blue dCi 115 Hp as a spirited performer within its segment, balancing performance with economy.
Fuel efficiency is a key strength of this Clio variant. Under the WLTP cycle, it achieves a combined fuel consumption of 56 US mpg (4.2 l/100 km). NEDC figures are even more impressive, with 54.7 US mpg urban (4.3 l/100 km), 73.5 US mpg extra urban (3.2 l/100 km), and 65.3 US mpg combined (3.6 l/100 km). The engine meets the stringent Euro 6 d-TEMP emission standard, with CO2 emissions rated at 110 g/km (WLTP) and 95 g/km (NEDC), thanks to advanced emission control systems including a particulate filter and AdBlue injection, utilizing an 11.6-liter (3.06 US gal) AdBlue tank.
Design & Features: Modernity and Practicality
The Clio V (Phase I) embodies Renault’s contemporary design language, presenting a more mature and athletic appearance than previous generations. Measuring 159.45 inches (4050 mm) in length, 70.79 inches (1798 mm) (78.27 inches or 1988 mm including mirrors) in width, and 56.69 inches (1440 mm) in height, the Clio maintains a compact footprint while maximizing interior space. The 101.69-inch (2583 mm) wheelbase contributes to stable handling and a comfortable ride. A minimum turning circle of 34.19 feet (10.42 meters) ensures excellent maneuverability in urban environments.
As a five-door, five-seat hatchback, practicality is a core design principle. The Clio V offers 13.81 cu. ft. (391 liters) of trunk space with the rear seats in place, expanding to 37.75 cu. ft. (1069 liters) when folded down. This cargo flexibility makes it suitable for a variety of uses. The kerb weight of 2621.3 lbs (1189 kg) contributes to its agile handling and further enhances fuel efficiency.
The Clio features a robust chassis with an independent McPherson-type front suspension and a semi-independent, coil spring, elastic beam rear suspension – a common and effective setup for compact cars balancing comfort and stability. Stopping power is provided by ventilated disc brakes (280 mm) at the front and solid discs (260 mm) at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. Electric power steering, a rack and pinion system, offers light and precise control. The vehicle rides on 195/55 R16 87H tires mounted on 16-inch wheel rims, providing a balance of grip and ride comfort.
Technical Specifications: Renault Clio V (Phase I) 1.5 Blue dCi (115 Hp)
| Category | Specification |
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Clio |
| Generation | Clio V (Phase I) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 Blue dCi (115 Hp) |
| Start of Production | June, 2019 |
| End of Production | December, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) |
| Body Type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined Fuel Consumption (WLTP) | 56 US mpg (4.2 l/100 km) |
| CO2 Emissions (WLTP) | 110 g/km |
| Fuel Consumption – Urban (NEDC) | 54.7 US mpg (4.3 l/100 km) |
| Fuel Consumption – Extra Urban (NEDC) | 73.5 US mpg (3.2 l/100 km) |
| Fuel Consumption – Combined (NEDC) | 65.3 US mpg (3.6 l/100 km) |
| CO2 Emissions (NEDC) | 95 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph (0-100 km/h) | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum Speed | 122.41 mph (197 km/h) |
| Emission Standard | Euro 6 d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp (96.7 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm (218.7 Nm/tonne) |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per Liter | 78.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 191.77 lb.-ft. (260 Nm) @ 2000 rpm |
| Engine Layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K 872 |
| Engine Displacement | 1.5 liters (1461 cm3 / 89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 |
| Engine Configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 2.99 in. (76 mm) |
| Piston Stroke | 3.17 in. (80.5 mm) |
| Number of Valves per Cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel Injection System | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine Aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 6.02 US qt (5.7 l) |
| Coolant Capacity | 10.57 US qt (10 l) |
| Engine Systems | Particulate Filter |
| Kerb Weight | 2621.3 lbs (1189 kg) |
| Max. Weight | 3752.27 lbs (1702 kg) |
| Trunk (Boot) Space – Minimum | 13.81 cu. ft. (391 l) |
| Trunk (Boot) Space – Maximum | 37.75 cu. ft. (1069 l) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 10.3 US gal (39 l) |
| AdBlue Tank | 3.06 US gal (11.6 l) |
| Length | 159.45 in. (4050 mm) |
| Width with Mirrors Folded | 70.79 in. (1798 mm) |
| Width Including Mirrors | 78.27 in. (1988 mm) |
| Height | 56.69 in. (1440 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 101.69 in. (2583 mm) |
Legacy & Market Impact in the European Landscape
The Renault Clio has consistently been one of Europe’s best-selling cars for decades, and the fifth generation, including the Renault Clio V (Phase I) 1.5 Blue dCi (115 Hp), continued this strong tradition. It competes in the B-segment against rivals like the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, Peugeot 208, and Opel/Vauxhall Corsa. The Clio’s enduring appeal stems from its stylish design, comfortable ride, practical packaging, and diverse powertrain options.
The 1.5 Blue dCi (115 Hp) variant played a crucial role in its European market during its production run. While diesel engines faced increasing scrutiny, they remained popular for their fuel economy and torque, especially for drivers covering long distances. The Clio’s Blue dCi engine offered a compelling proposition, combining strong performance with impressive efficiency and adherence to emission standards, making it a responsible choice. Its low CO2 emissions were also attractive in markets with emissions-based taxation.
The Clio V (Phase I) represented a significant improvement in interior quality and technology compared to its predecessor, integrating modern infotainment systems and driver-assistance features. Its evolution demonstrates Renault’s commitment to keeping the Clio at the forefront of the segment, blending traditional strengths with contemporary demands for connectivity and safety. Although not sold in the US, the Clio’s success in Europe highlights regional differences in automotive preferences and regulations, and its robust sales figures underscore its importance as a benchmark in the subcompact class.
