Renault has claimed a double victory at the Auto Express Used Car Awards 2026, with the Clio named ‘Best Used Small Car’ and the Captur taking the title of ‘Best Used Small SUV’. The result highlights the enduring appeal of Renault’s B-segment models, with the Clio also finishing second overall in the prestigious ‘Used Car of the Year’ rankings.
The awards recognise the appealing qualities of both models, with Auto Express highlighting their refined driving experiences, high-quality interiors and practicality. Both are available with Renault’s efficient full hybrid E-Tech technology, offering an accessible combination of performance, economy and everyday usability.
Clio continues its winning ways
The latest accolade adds to an impressive collection of awards for the fifth-generation Renault Clio, which previously claimed Auto Express’s ‘Supermini of the Year’ title for three consecutive years between 2020 and 2022.
Richard Ingram, Deputy Editor, Auto Express, explained why the Clio stood out: “One of the most accomplished small cars on sale, and a winner in the supermini class of our New Car Awards several years on the trot, the Renault Clio combines dinky dimensions with big-car tech. Throw in hybrid drive, and those regular fuel-station visits will be a thing of the past.”
With its distinctive design, advanced technology and accomplished driving dynamics, Clio delivers a level of comfort and sophistication more commonly associated with larger vehicles. Its full hybrid E-Tech powertrain combines responsive performance with impressive efficiency, helping drivers to reduce fuel consumption without the need for external charging.
Captur proves its lasting appeal
The Renault Captur’s ‘Best Used Small SUV’ award highlights how it has become such a compelling choice for drivers seeking the versatility of an SUV in a compact package.
Auto Express praised its refined driving experience, spacious cabin, and flexible interior, with the sliding rear bench allowing owners to prioritise passenger room or luggage capacity according to their needs.
Richard Ingram added: "The Renault Captur’s recipe is disarmingly simple: it's little more than a lifted Clio. But given how highly we rate its supermini sibling, it should come as no surprise the Captur was crowned our Small SUV of the Year in 2020 and 2021 – and our Best Used Small SUV in 2026. As is the case with the Clio, in the Captur you can enjoy the refinement and driving manners of a much larger car, and a range of punchy yet efficient engines. The cabin exudes quality, is roomy, and is also quite flexible thanks to the innovative sliding rear seat bench."
Its appeal has been further enhanced by the introduction of Renault’s latest 160 hp full hybrid E-Tech powertrain, which delivers improved performance and fuel efficiency while retaining the convenience of a vehicle that doesn’t need plugging in.
A winning combination of hybrid and electric
The two awards reinforce the strength of Renault’s offering in the highly competitive B-segment, where the brand provides customers with a choice of advanced full hybrid and fully electric vehicles.
Alongside the Clio and Captur, the all-electric Renault 5 E-Tech electric and Renault 4 E-Tech electric demonstrate the complementary nature of Renault’s approach to electrification, giving drivers the freedom to choose the technology that best suits their needs.
Adam Wood, Managing Director, Renault UK, said: “Clio and Captur have long been at the heart of Renault’s success, so it’s rewarding to see both recognised for the qualities that continue to make them such appealing cars to own. Their combination of refinement, practicality and efficient hybrid technology shows just how much our B-segment models have to offer, whether customers are buying new or used.”
For more information about the Renault range, visit www.renault.co.uk.