The range explained… Renault
Can’t tell a Clio from a Captur, or a Zoe from a Twizy? Don’t worry, we’ve got everything you need to know about Renault and its cars.


Words by: Phill Tromans
Published on 21 August 2018 | 0 min read
Within a few years the company had set up subsidiaries outside France, and by 1905 was exporting vehicles around the world. By 1913 it had almost 5,000 employees, and after the First World War its fortunes soared. The Second World War paused things somewhat, and the company was nationalised by the French government in 1945, but further international expansion followed and by the 1970s, Renault employed more than 100,000 people. The Renault Sport division was founded in 1976 and led to considerable motorsport success, and some very desirable road cars. Renault was privatised in the mid-90s, and today it’s setting its sights on further expansion, with China a definite target. But enough of the past. What cars does it make right now?


If you want bigger, but still electric, take a look at the Zoe, which is Renault’s emission-free small hatchback. The next step up is the Clio (pictured below right), a badge that’s been around since 1990 and continues to win plenty of fans. The latest generation boasts stylish looks and a wide choice of trims and engines. For a mid-sized hatchback, the Megane is Renault’s offering. Like other cars in the Renault range, it features eye-catching looks and high equipment levels. It’s also available as an estate, called the Megane Sport Tourer.


The big SUV in Renault’s range is the Koleos (below right), which is spacious and once again boasts standout looks. It only boasts five seats though, so if you have particularly large passenger loads and want a seven-seater, you might want to consider an MPV instead. Speaking of MPVs…






dCi: stands for Direct Common-Rail Injection, the name for Renault’s diesel engines. EDC: stands for Efficient Dual Clutch, Renault’s name for its dual clutch automatic gearbox. MediaNav: One of Renault’s infotainment systems, controlled via a screen in the middle of the dashboard. Features can include radio and music streaming, satellite navigation and journey information. R&Go: an app designed to help you connect your smartphone or tablet to your car. R-Link: One of Renault’s infotainment systems, controlled via a touch-screen in the middle of the dashboard. Features can include radio and music streaming, satellite navigation and journey information. R-Link differs from MediaNav by offering online features and apps. SCe: stands for Smart Control Efficiency, and is the name for Renault’s non-turbocharged petrol engines. TCe: stands for Turbo Control Efficiency, and is used on Renault’s turbocharged petrol engines.