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@ Renault Group Media
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Fiat 500 vs Renault Clio – Which model is better for everyday use?

Two cars, one duel: Fiat 500 meets Renault Clio.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!

500 @ Fiat / Stellantis Media

A Clash of Compact Legends: Fiat 500 vs Renault Clio

When it comes to compact cars, two names stand out prominently in the automotive landscape: the Fiat 500 and the Renault Clio. Both are celebrated for their distinct styles, innovations, and efficiency. However, there are substantial differences that could sway potential buyers depending on their priorities. Here, we dive into a detailed comparison of the technical aspects and innovations that define these iconic hatchbacks.

Clio @ Renault Group Media

Design and Dimensions

The Fiat 500 continues to carry its signature retro charm with compact dimensions at 3,632 mm in length, 1,683 mm in width, and 1,527 mm in height. It is designed to be a nimble city car, perfect for navigating tight urban spaces. In contrast, the Renault Clio offers a more contemporary design, with slightly larger dimensions of 4,053 mm in length, 1,798 mm in width, and a height of 1,440 mm, providing a bit more presence and interior space on the road.

500 @ Fiat / Stellantis Media

Powertrain and Performance

The Fiat 500 embraces modernity with its electric powertrain, producing 118 HP and a torque of 220 Nm. It boasts a seamless driving experience with its reduction gearbox and front-wheel-drive configuration. The electric model offers an impressive range of up to 321 km, making it a strong choice for those seeking environmentally friendly transportation.

On the other hand, the Renault Clio offers more diversity in its engine types, including full hybrid, petrol, and LPG options. Its most potent hybrid configuration churns out 143 HP with 205 Nm of torque, allowing for a robust driving experience without compromising on fuel economy—consumption is just 4.3 L/100km for the hybrid variant. The Clio’s versatility gives it an edge for drivers who want options that align with their preferences or local fuel availability.

Clio @ Renault Group Media

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the Fiat 500 is designed to accommodate four seats, with a trunk capacity of 185 L, reflecting its focus on optimizing space within its subcompact form. Despite the limited seating, the 500 remains a favorite for those who value style and compactness over size.

The Renault Clio, with its capability to seat five passengers and a more generous trunk space of 301 L, is perhaps better suited for families or those requiring additional cargo space. The Clio prioritizes comfort and practicality while maintaining a stylish interior layout.

500 @ Fiat / Stellantis Media

Efficiency and Environment

In terms of environmental impact, the Fiat 500 shines with a CO2 emission rating of 0 g/km, attributable to its all-electric nature. This positions the car firmly within the highest CO2 efficiency class of A, making it an exceptional choice for eco-conscious drivers.

While the Renault Clio’s emissions vary depending on the engine choice, it still presents a competitive offering with CO2 outputs as low as 97 g/km for the hybrid model, characterized by an efficiency class of C, which is commendable for a hybrid vehicle of its size.

Clio @ Renault Group Media

Conclusion: Choosing Your Compact Companion

Ultimately, the choice between the Fiat 500 and the Renault Clio boils down to individual needs and preferences. The Fiat 500 appeals to those looking for a chic, eco-friendly city car, whereas the Renault Clio provides versatility, space, and a variety of powertrain options for those who might frequently venture outside the city. Both vehicles exhibit a blend of innovation and tradition yet cater to distinct aspects of modern driving demands.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Renault Clio has a to a small extent advantage in terms of price – it starts at 16600 £, while the Fiat 500 costs 18800 £. That’s a price difference of around 2263 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Renault Clio manages with 4.10 L and is therefore clearly perceptible more efficient than the Fiat 500 with 5.30 L. The difference is about 1.20 L per 100 km.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Renault Clio has a distinct edge – offering 158 HP compared to 118 HP. That’s roughly 40 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Renault Clio is slight quicker – completing the sprint in 8.30 s, while the Fiat 500 takes 9 s. That’s about 0.70 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Renault Clio performs slightly better – reaching 180 km/h, while the Fiat 500 tops out at 155 km/h. The difference is around 25 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Fiat 500 pulls barely noticeable stronger with 220 Nm compared to 205 Nm. That’s about 15 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Seats: Renault Clio offers a bit more seating capacity – 5 vs 4.

In curb weight, Renault Clio is hardly perceptible lighter – 1124 kg compared to 1141 kg. The difference is around 17 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Renault Clio offers decisively more room – 391 L compared to 185 L. That’s a difference of about 206 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Renault Clio performs significantly better – up to 1176 L, which is about 626 L more than the Fiat 500.

When it comes to payload, Renault Clio evident takes the win – 463 kg compared to 325 kg. That’s a difference of about 138 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Renault Clio shows itself to be wins the duel decisively and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £16,600
Clio @ Renault Group Media

Renault Clio

  • Engine Type : Full Hybrid, Petrol
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 67 - 158 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.1 - 5.3 L

Fiat 500

The Fiat 500 is a cheeky, retro‑styled city car that turns heads with its iconic looks and playful personality. Perfect for weaving through tight streets and easing into tiny parking spots, it’s aimed at buyers who want style and character more than grand touring prowess.

details

Renault Clio

The Clio punches above its weight with chic French styling and a surprisingly grown-up cabin that makes city driving feel effortlessly stylish. It's an easy-to-live-with choice that keeps ownership simple and even manages to put a grin on your face when the traffic gets dull.

details
Fiat 500
Renault Clio
500 @ Fiat / Stellantis Media
Clio @ Renault Group Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
18800 - 30800 £
Price
16600 - 23700 £
Consumption L/100km
5.30 L
Consumption L/100km
4.1 - 5.3 L
Consumption kWh/100km
13 - 14.7 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
190 - 331 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
21.3 - 37.3 kWh
Battery Capacity
0.60 kWh
co2
0 - 120 g/km
co2
92 - 121 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
39 - 42 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
4
Seats
5
Doors
3 - 4
Doors
5
Curb weight
1141 - 1475 kg
Curb weight
1124 - 1331 kg
Trunk capacity
183 - 185 L
Trunk capacity
301 - 391 L
Length
3631 - 3632 mm
Length
4053 - 4116 mm
Width
1683 - 1684 mm
Width
1768 - 1798 mm
Height
1527 - 1532 mm
Height
1440 - 1451 mm
Max trunk capacity
440 - 550 L
Max trunk capacity
979 - 1176 L
Payload
250 - 325 kg
Payload
398 - 463 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Electric, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Petrol
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Manual Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox, Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
65 - 118 HP
Power HP
67 - 158 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9 - 16.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.3 - 17.1 s
Max Speed
135 - 155 km/h
Max Speed
160 - 180 km/h
Torque
220 Nm
Torque
95 - 205 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
48 - 87 kW
Power kW
49 - 116 kW
Engine capacity
999 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1789 cm3

General

Model Year
2023 - 2025
Model Year
2023 - 2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, D
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D, B
Brand
Fiat
Brand
Renault
What drivetrain options does the Fiat 500 have?

The Fiat 500 is offered with Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.