Test of Renault Clio 6: 115hp Petrol Engine with Automatic Transmission

The Renault Clio 6 stands out as an essential reference in the versatile city car segment. While the E-Tech hybrid version often grabs the headlines, we wanted to test a more classic yet promising powertrain: the 1.2 TCe 115 hp (code HR12). Is it the ideal compromise for those seeking efficiency and comfort on long journeys? Here’s our verdict after a comprehensive test on the highway.

Video: Test of Renault Clio 6 115 HP EDC 6 Engine (2026)

Technical Specifications and Pricing Positioning

Under the hood, the 3-cylinder turbo HR12 engine delivers 115 hp and 190 Nm of torque. This powertrain is available with either a manual transmission or a 6-speed EDC automatic transmission.

In terms of performance, the automatic version has a slight advantage, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in 10 seconds (compared to 10.4 seconds with the manual transmission) and a top speed of 180 km/h.

Pricing (Evolution Trim):

Powertrain
Starting Price
TCE 1.2 115 hp (Manual Transmission)
€19,900
TCE 1.2 115 hp (EDC6 Transmission)
€21,900
E-Tech 160 Hybrid
€24,600

City Driving: A Controlled Yet Demanding Playground

With its length of 4.12 meters and a turning radius of 10.2 meters, the Clio 6 maneuvers with remarkable ease. In urban settings, the EDC6 transmission makes driving very smooth and enjoyable.

However, not everything is perfect: the Stop & Start system causes vibrations during restarts that can become uncomfortable over time. Additionally, fuel consumption in purely urban use rises quickly, averaging 8 l/100 km.

Highway: A Pleasant Surprise in Fuel Consumption

It’s on the highway that this 3-cylinder engine impresses. During our tests, the Clio 6 demonstrated remarkable efficiency:

• At 110 km/h: We observed an average consumption of about 4.3 l/100 km.
• At 130 km/h: Consumption stabilizes around 5.8 l/100 km.

With a 39-liter fuel tank, this offers an impressive real-world range: approximately 850 to 900 km at 110 km/h, and about 650 to 670 km at 130 km/h.

Comfort and Noise Insulation

While the Clio 6 has moved upmarket, it remains a city car. At 110 km/h, noise insulation is adequate but not at the level of a higher segment touring vehicle. Some wind noise can be heard around the mirrors, and on rough surfaces, road noise and slight vibrations from the interior may be noticeable.

Verdict: A Versatile Clio 6 Cheaper than an E-Tech Hybrid

The Renault Clio 6 equipped with the 1.2 TCe 115 hp is an excellent surprise for those who cover long distances. It offers a range and highway consumption very close to hybrid versions, at a significantly lower entry price (saving over €5,000 compared to the E-Tech 160). If you can tolerate some minor urban vibrations and imperfect noise insulation, this is undoubtedly the most rational choice in the current lineup.

What I Liked

• Driving pleasure for the category
• Low fuel consumption
• Range close to 900 km
• Controlled noise insulation
• Standard equipment (considering the price)
• Driving comfort
• Very good trunk volume (391 liters)
• Reliable engine (to be seen over time)

What I Liked Less**

• An entry-level price of €20,000 is starting to feel steep
• Lack of diesel options and lower power
• Wind noise around the mirrors amplified by rain
• Engine vibrations during restarts (with air conditioning on)