Renault Clio and Twingo win at 2026 Argus awards

Renault Clio named Car of the Year and Twingo E-Tech electric wins New Model of the Year at 2026 Argus awards. Explore key details and results.

Renault secured a double victory at the 2026 Trophées de l’Argus, with the Clio named “Car of the Year” and the Twingo E-Tech electric awarded “New Model of the Year.” The result highlights the brand’s strong position across both hybrid and electric segments in the French market.

The Clio topped its category ahead of competitors such as the Dacia Bigster and Skoda Elroq. It remains a core model for Renault, leading the French market and ranking among Europe’s best-selling cars. The latest version, introduced in late 2025, features a full hybrid E-Tech powertrain delivering up to 160 hp, with fuel consumption around 3.9 l/100 km and the ability to run on electric power for a significant portion of urban driving.

This balance of efficiency, a starting price below €20,000, and equipment typically found in higher segments reinforces the Clio’s appeal for both private buyers and fleet customers. As demand for hybrid solutions grows, the model continues to play a key role in the transition between conventional engines and fully electric vehicles.

The Twingo E-Tech electric, meanwhile, dominated the “New Model of the Year” category with 408 points, clearly outperforming its rivals. Designed as a compact urban EV, it features a 60 kW motor and a 27.5 kWh battery, offering a range of around 260 km (WLTP), which aligns with daily city use. Charging options include up to 11 kW AC and 50 kW DC, along with bidirectional energy capabilities.

Affordability is central to its positioning. With a starting price of about €19,490 before incentives, government support in France can significantly reduce the final cost depending on income level. In practice, this brings the price down to roughly the €13,000–€16,000 range, placing it among the most accessible electric cars available.

Together, these awards reflect Renault’s dual-track strategy. The Clio demonstrates the continued relevance of efficient hybrid vehicles in the B-segment, while the Twingo introduces a more affordable entry point into full electric mobility. With nearly 17 million Clio units sold globally and more than three decades of Twingo history behind it, both models illustrate how the brand is addressing different stages of the market’s transition.