The nouveau moteur Renault for 2025 and 2026 is the E-Tech 160 full hybrid powertrain. This 1.8-liter unit, which debuted in models like the Clio and Captur, delivers 160 horsepower and uses a clutchless multimode gearbox derived from Formula 1 technology. Renault is moving decisively away from older diesel engines toward these electrified options that offer up to 80% electric driving in city conditions and a total range of up to 1,000 kilometers.
The standout new addition is the **1.2L turbocharged petrol engine** co-developed with Horse Powertrain, offering improved fuel economy over the outgoing 1.3L TCe units while maintaining competitive power outputs across the Clio, Captur, and Megane range.
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What’s New With Renault Engines in 2025?
Renault’s engine strategy in 2025 revolves around three pillars:
**1. Electrification First**
Renault is prioritising full-hybrid (E-Tech) and plug-in hybrid options. The E-Tech system pairs a petrol engine with two electric motors and a unique claw-clutch gearbox that was originally inspired by Formula 1 technology.
**2. New 1.2L Turbo Petrol**
The new 1.2-litre turbocharged unit replaces the 1.0L and some 1.3L variants. It’s lighter, more efficient, and tuned for both performance and low emissions – designed to comply with tightening Euro 7 standards.
**3. Diesel Phase-Out**
Renault has significantly reduced diesel availability across its passenger car range in Europe. Only certain commercial and larger utility vehicles will retain diesel options going forward.
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New Renault Engine Options – 2025 Overview
| Engine | Type | Power Output | Models Available | Fuel Economy (est.) |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| 1.2L TCe Turbo Petrol | Mild Hybrid | 130 hp | Clio, Captur, Arkana | 5.8L/100km |
| 1.6L E-Tech Full Hybrid | Full Hybrid | 145 hp | Clio, Captur, Austral | 4.6L/100km |
| 1.8L E-Tech Plug-in Hybrid | PHEV | 160 hp | Austral, Espace | 1.5L/100km (WLTP) |
| 1.3L TCe (outgoing) | Petrol | 140-160 hp | Being phased out | 6.2L/100km |
| 1.5L dCi Diesel | Diesel | 115 hp | Austral, Espace only | 5.0L/100km |
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Which Renault Cars Get the New Engine First?
Renault is rolling out the new 1.2L turbo and updated E-Tech systems in a phased approach:
**Already available:**
– Renault Clio – new 1.2L TCe and updated E-Tech hybrid
– Renault Captur – full E-Tech hybrid and mild-hybrid variants
**Coming mid-2025:**
– Renault Arkana – replacing the 1.3L with the new 1.2L unit
– Renault Austral – updated PHEV powertrain with more electric range
**Later in 2025 / early 2026:**
– Renault Megane E-Tech (electric only – no combustion engine)
– New Renault 5 – electric powertrain only
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How Does the New Engine Compare to What Came Before?
The shift from the 1.3L TCe to the new 1.2L is more meaningful than the displacement reduction suggests:
| Spec | Old 1.3L TCe | New 1.2L TCe |
|—|—|—|
| Displacement | 1,332 cc | 1,199 cc |
| Power | 130-160 hp | 130 hp |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 230 Nm |
| CO2 Emissions | ~130 g/km | ~118 g/km |
| Weight | Heavier | ~15kg lighter |
| Euro Standard | Euro 6 | Euro 7 ready |
The new unit may produce slightly less torque, but the weight reduction and emissions improvement make it a better fit for Renault’s current direction.
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Is the New Renault Engine Worth Waiting For?
If you’re buying a Clio or Captur in 2025, the new E-Tech hybrid or updated 1.2L turbo is worth waiting for over older stock. Fuel savings over three years of ownership can offset any small price premium.
For drivers who cover high annual mileage, the full E-Tech hybrid version makes the most financial sense – especially in city and suburban driving where the electric component kicks in most frequently.
