Renault finds itself in a rather delicate situation. While the brand has long been a pioneer in automotive safety, its latest models, the Clio 6 and the Alpine A390, have only scored 4 stars in Euro NCAP tests. A disappointing performance that raises questions, especially in the face of budget Chinese city cars that shine with their maximum scores.
A Clio 6 in trouble
The Clio 6 is a city car that has seen better days. With a score of 79% in adult protection, one might expect more from such an iconic model. During the offset frontal crash, the cabin remains stable, certainly, but the sensors on the dummy reveal a protection deemed “weak” for the driver’s chest and “moderate” for the passenger’s. In short, it’s a bit like being served a gourmet dish with impeccable presentation, but the taste leaves much to be desired.
The knees and thighs of the passengers are preserved, but Euro NCAP points out that occupants of different sizes or positions may not benefit from the same level of protection. It’s a bit like being promised a dazzling rock concert, only to receive a simple rehearsal.
On the other hand, where the Clio 6 shines is in lateral impacts. The protection of critical areas is good, and the absence of serious damage during the pole test is reassuring. However, there are no specific measures to limit contact between occupants in the event of a lateral collision, an oversight that can have serious consequences.
Clio 6 and Alpine A390 only receive 4 Euro NCAP stars, far from the Mercedes CLA and new Chinese models. Has Renault lost its lead in safety? © Alpine
Alpine A390: a lackluster coupe
Now let’s move on to the Alpine A390, which is expected to shine with its price of around €67,500. Unfortunately, it too only garners 4 stars out of 5. With just 74% in adult protection, this electric coupe seems to lose its luster compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y, which boasts an impressive score of 91%.
During the offset frontal crash, the A390’s cabin remains stable, and the knees and thighs of the front passengers are well protected. However, the driver’s chest is rated as “moderately” protected. It’s a bit like hoping for an epic guitar solo and ending up with a boring riff.
The situation worsens during lateral tests. Although all critical areas are protected, the door opens upon impact, resulting in a fatal penalty for the overall score. This unfortunate detail could be likened to a suspense movie where the hero finds themselves trapped in a compromising situation.
In terms of adult protection, the Clio 6 does not perform too badly but with results that are generally good to average. © Euro NCAP
Child and vulnerable road user protection
Regarding child protection, the Alpine A390 almost scores perfectly with 23.7 points out of 24. However, it loses some points for the absence of Isofix anchor points in the center of the rear bench and on the front passenger seat. Overall, it offers exemplary management of child seats.
For vulnerable road users, the Alpine also receives a score of 80%. The head of a pedestrian or cyclist is adequately protected over most of the hood. However, the pillars and the base of the windshield remain problematic. In terms of autonomous emergency braking, the A390 reacts appropriately to pedestrians and cyclists, but the rear pedestrian protection function is not activated by default, costing it points.
Chest protection is rated weak for the driver. In the same test, the BYD Dolphin Surf shows a superior result. © Euro NCAP
Chinese competitors take center stage
Beyond Renault, this wave of Euro NCAP results raises questions about the current automotive market. While some traditional manufacturers seem to be losing ground in safety, several Chinese models now boast maximum scores. The Deepal S05 achieves 5 stars with 94% occupant protection, while the Leapmotor B10 and the Geely Starray are not far behind.
This sharply contrasts with the performance of other new electric models like the Jeep Compass or the Kia EV4, which can only manage 4 stars despite their advanced technology. There is something concerning when a low-cost city car outperforms the results of a prestigious coupe!
If the 4 stars of the Clio 6 are disappointing but can be understood given its positioning, it is more troubling for the Alpine A390. © Euro NCAP
A brand to revive?
For Renault, the road ahead seems fraught with obstacles. As the Clio 6 and the Alpine A390 struggle to convince in terms of safety, it becomes urgent for the brand to regain its former status. Times have changed, and so have consumer expectations. If Renault wishes to reclaim its place among industry leaders, it must urgently work on its safety features.
In conclusion, these Euro NCAP results are a real wake-up call for Renault. The brand must react quickly if it does not want to be overtaken by the competition, whether French or foreign. After all, in the ruthless world of modern automobiles, every star counts.
Regarding chest protection, for example, the protection is average. In the same test, the Leapmotor B10 performs better. © Euro NCAP
