With two tanks and 120 hp, French hatch becomes an alternative to electrified ones for those looking for economy on long-distance routes
Renault has expanded the Clio lineup in Europe with the launch of the Eco-G 120 engine — a bi-fuel version that combines gasoline and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas). The novelty positions the French hatch as a pragmatic alternative to purely combustion models and conventional hybrids, with a focus on reducing operating costs and an autonomy that is among the highest in the compact segment.
The mechanical set is centered on a 1.2 turbo three-cylinder engine with direct injection, capable of delivering 120 hp and 20,4 kgfm. The technical differential of the project lies in the dual fuel system, consisting of a 42-liter gasoline tank and a 39-liter tank dedicated exclusively to LPG. When operating together, the reservoirs give the compact a total range of up to 1,450 km, allowing transcontinental crossings with rare stops for refueling.
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To manage engine power, Renault has adopted the EDC dual-clutch automatic transmission, which allows for agile and smooth gear changes without torque interruption. The fuel management system is intuitive: the alternation between gas and gasoline can occur automatically — when one of the tanks runs out — or manually, through a discreet selector on the dashboard. In addition, the filling nozzle for both tanks is under the same hatch, maintaining practicality at the station.
In terms of efficiency, the Clio registers, in LPG mode, a consumption of 15.4 km/l. In gasoline mode, the averages are 18,5 km/l. Such indices guarantee the model tax benefits and free movement in low-emission zones in several European capitals.
In a scenario of high prices for petroleum products, Renault’s technology presents itself as an intermediate step for those looking for immediate savings without depending exclusively on the electric charging network. By maintaining the updated design of the fifth generation and adding the convenience of automatic transmission to the gas engine, the brand reinforces the relevance of LPG as an efficient and low-cost transition fuel for the European consumer.
