Renault has enjoyed a double celebration at the Auto Express New Car Awards 2022, with category wins for its very latest EV and one of its most iconic models.
The All-New Renault Mégane E-Tech 100% Electric highlighted its vast appeal to business customers after the renowned magazine voted the 100 per cent electric crossover its ‘Small Company Car of the Year’, while the Renault Clio underlined its unrivalled suitability for urban environments by winning the ‘Supermini of the Year’ award for the third consecutive year.
The annual Auto Express Awards recognise everyday excellence in the new car market, with the individual category award winners determined by focusing on how each car meets a customer’s priorities.
With the launch of the All-New Renault Mégane E-Tech 100% Electric only a few weeks ago, Auto Express quickly recognised its many merits for company car drivers. Its expert judging panel decided to award the very latest all-electric Renault after being impressed by its distinctive style inside and out, attractive BiK costs, state-of-the-art technology and ease of use.
Steve Fowler, Editor in Chief, Auto Express, said: “The All-New Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric has been worth the wait, its blend of engaging driving dynamics, cutting-edge tech and usability taking it straight to the top step of the podium. Not only does it attract rock bottom BiK bills, but the sharp styling creates all the right impressions when it comes to impressing clients. The interior is a real highlight too, with a forward-thinking approach and some stylish trim choices.”
The long-established magazine was equally complimentary about the Clio, with the popular hatchback defending its ‘Supermini of the Year’ title for the third year in a row. Its combination of space, looks, equipment and attractive purchase options helped the latest generation to secure the win, adding another accolade to the many awards that the Clio has won since the first version was introduced over 30 years ago.
Fowler added: “Renault has cemented its success with the Clio supermini, following up on convincing performances in 2020 and 2021 to make it a hat-trick this year. At the heart of the Renault’s appeal is its ability to squeeze genuine family-friendly versatility into such a compact package, yet the Renault blends this practicality with a generous dose of visual appeal. Factor in a long list of standard kit and some tasty finance deals from Renault, and it’s not hard to see why the Clio has taken top honours once again.”
The All-New Renault Mégane E-Tech 100% Electric is the first of a new generation of electric vehicles built on the advanced CMF-EV platform, styled within the brand’s ‘sensual tech’ design language and the first model to wear the new ‘Nouvel’R’ logo. With an electric driving range of up to 280 miles (WLTP), the All-New Mégane E-Tech also features a class-leading digital experience with a 12.3-inch dashboard display, 9-inch multimedia display, and Android Automotive OS with integrated Google services.
Customers can choose from three generously-equipped models – Equilibre, Techno, and a range-topping Launch Edition – with the All-New Mégane E-Tech priced from £35,995 OTR. It is available to order now with first deliveries expected later in the year.
Updated for 2022 with enhanced equipment, the Clio is available in Evolution, Techno and R.S. Line versions. The newly introduced trim levels reference the line-up’s abundance of technological features and distinctive style. For example, the top-of-the-range R.S. Line comes complete with such features as the 9.3-inch EASY LINK infotainment system with satellite navigation, wireless phone charger and 10-inch TFT Colour Instrument Display. The wide array of efficient engine choices now also includes the E-Tech 145, the new 1.6-litre petrol hybrid engine producing 145hp and emitting as little as 96g/km CO 2.