A Journey Through Renault's History in the UK - From Past to Present

Published Date: 10th Apr 2023

Image of a Renault Alpine Car Renault has had a notable presence in the United Kingdom for over a century, with a range of iconic vehicles that have captured the imagination of British drivers. Let's look at Renault's history in the UK, including key events and some of the most popular models sold in the country.

Early Years (1902-1945)

Renault was founded by Louis Renault in France in 1899, and the company's first cars were imported into the UK in the early 1900s. These early models were known for their quality and reliability, and they quickly established Renault as a leading brand in the UK automotive industry.

During the 1930s, Renault expanded its UK operations and began producing vehicles locally, including the popular Renault Juvaquatre. However, the outbreak of World War II in 1939 had a major impact on Renault's UK operations, as production was halted, and the company's factories were repurposed for the war effort.

Post-war Recovery and Expansion (1945-the 1970s)

After the war, Renault resumed its UK operations and began introducing a range of new models designed to meet British drivers' needs. One of the most significant models was the Renault 4CV, launched in the UK in 1948. This compact, affordable car was an instant hit with British drivers, and it helped to establish Renault as a major player in the UK market.

Over the next few decades, Renault continued to expand its product line in the UK, introducing a range of models designed to appeal to different drivers. The Dauphine, R8, and R16 were all popular models in the 1960s and 1970s, while the Renault 5, which was launched in 1972, became a firm favourite with UK drivers.

Other notable models introduced during this period include the Renault 12, the Renault 14, and the Renault 17. These models were known for their innovative designs, high-quality engineering, and reliable performance, and they helped to cement Renault's reputation as a leading brand in the UK automotive industry.

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Struggles and Restructuring (1980s-1990s)

Image of a Historic Renault Sports Car However, Renault's UK operations hit a rough patch in the 1980s and 1990s, as economic difficulties and changing market conditions led to declining sales and reduced market share. The company was forced to restructure its UK operations, including the closure of a manufacturing plant in 1986.

Despite these challenges, Renault continued introducing new models designed to appeal to British drivers. One of the most successful of these models was the Renault Clio, which was launched in 1990. This compact, sporty car quickly became a firm favourite with UK drivers, thanks to its stylish design, nimble handling, and fuel-efficient engines.

Other popular models introduced during this period include the Renault Laguna, the Renault Megane, and the Renault Scenic. These models were known for their innovative designs, advanced features, and high levels of comfort and convenience.

Revival and Modernization (2000s-Present)

In recent years, Renault has managed to rebuild its UK market share thanks to a renewed focus on innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. The company has introduced a range of new models that are designed to appeal to modern drivers, including the popular Renault Captur and the innovative Renault Zoe electric vehicle.

The Renault Captur is a compact crossover SUV that was launched in the UK in 2013. It features a range of advanced features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. The Captur is available with a range of engines, including a fuel-efficient diesel engine and a turbocharged petrol engine.

On the other hand, Zoe is an all-electric car launched in the UK in 2013 as well. It has become one of the most popular electric vehicles in the country thanks to its long driving range, quick charging capabilities, and affordable price. The Zoe is available with a range of advanced features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, satellite navigation, and a rearview camera.

In addition to the Captur and Zoe, Renault has also introduced a range of other popular models in the UK in recent years, including the Kadjar, Koleos, and Twingo. These models are known for their stylish designs, high levels of comfort and convenience, and advanced features.

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Here is a list of some of the most popular Renault models sold in the UK over the last 70+ years:

Renault 4CV (1948-1961): This compact car was one of the earliest models introduced by Renault in the UK. It became popular for drivers looking for a practical and affordable vehicle.
Renault Dauphine (1956-1967): This stylish and affordable car was one of the first models Renault introduced in the UK. It was popular with drivers looking for a car that was easy to handle and maintain.
Renault 8 (1962-1973): The Renault 8 was a sporty and dynamic car popular with drivers who wanted a fun car. It was available in a range of models and colours.
Renault 16 (1965-1979): The Renault 16 was a practical and versatile car that was popular with families. It was one of the first hatchback cars to be introduced by Renault in the UK.
Renault 5 (1972-1996): The Renault 5 was a stylish and iconic car that became one of Renault's most popular models in the UK. It was available in a range of models and colours and was particularly popular with young drivers.
Renault 12 (1970-1980): The Renault 12 was a practical and reliable car that was popular with families. It was available in a range of models, including a four-door saloon and a five-door estate.
Renault 14 (1976-1983): The Renault 14 was a spacious and comfortable car that was popular with drivers who wanted a practical and reliable vehicle.
Renault 17 (1972-1980): The Renault 17 was a sporty and dynamic car popular with drivers who wanted a fun car. It was available in a range of models and colours.
Renault Clio (1990-present): The Renault Clio is popular among car buyers looking for a stylish, well-equipped, and affordable small hatchback. Since its introduction in 1990, the Clio has been a strong competitor in a crowded market segment, including popular models such as the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, and Vauxhall Corsa. Despite this stiff competition, the Clio continues to offer excellent value for money, making it an attractive option for new car buyers. The Clio is available in a range of models, starting from the entry-level Play to the top-of-the-range RS Line, each offering different levels of equipment and technology. All models come with a range of petrol and diesel engines, with some models featuring a hybrid powertrain option. The Clio boasts a spacious and comfortable interior with premium materials and finishes, making it a luxurious and comfortable choice for buyers. The Renault Clio offers a range of advanced features, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and smartphone integration. It also boasts a range of safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features make the Clio stand out from its competitors, offering buyers more advanced features and a safer driving experience.

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Renault Laguna (1993-2015): The Renault Laguna was a spacious and comfortable car that was popular with families. It was available in a range of models, including a five-door hatchback and a five-door estate.
Renault Megane (1995-present): Renault Megane has been on the market since 1995 and has undergone multiple updates and facelifts over the years. As a mid-size family car, the Megane sits in a competitive market segment that includes popular models such as the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, and the Vauxhall Astra. However, the Megane distinguishes itself from its competitors by offering a stylish design, advanced features, and high levels of comfort and convenience at an affordable price point. The Renault Megane is available in a range of models, from the entry-level Play to the top-of-the-range GT Line, offering different levels of equipment and technology. All models come with a range of petrol and diesel engines, with a hybrid powertrain option in some models. The Megane boasts a spacious and comfortable interior with premium materials and finishes, making it a comfortable and luxurious choice for buyers. The Renault Megane offers a range of advanced features, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and smartphone integration. It also boasts a range of safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Renault Scenic (1996-present): The Renault Scenic is a practical and versatile car that has been popular with families. It is known for its spacious interior, advanced features and high levels of safety.
Renault Captur (2013-present): The Renault Captur is a stylish and compact SUV that has been popular with drivers who want a car that is easy to handle and park. It is available in a range of models and colours and is known for its advanced features and high levels of comfort and convenience.
Renault Zoe (2013-present): The Renault Zoe is an all-electric car that has been on the market since 2013 and has quickly become one of the most popular electric vehicles in the UK. It is a compact car with an impressive range of up to 245 miles on a single charge, making it a practical choice for daily use. The Zoe also features quick charging capabilities, allowing drivers to recharge their vehicle in as little as 30 minutes using a fast charger. As an affordable electric car, the Renault Zoe sits in the middle of the market, offering a balance of practicality and affordability.

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Renault Kadjar (2015-present): The Renault Kadjar is a versatile and affordable compact SUV that has been on the market since 2015. It offers a sleek and stylish design, with a range of customizable options for buyers to choose from, including different models and colours. The Kadjar has become popular among families due to its spacious interior, advanced features, and excellent comfort and convenience levels. As a mid-range SUV, the Renault Kadjar sits comfortably in the market, offering a balance of affordability, style, and practicality. It competes with other compact SUVs, such as the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, and the Mazda CX-5. However, the Kadjar distinguishes itself by offering a more premium feel and a range of advanced features at a more competitive price point. The Renault Kadjar is available in a range of models, from the entry-level Play to the top-of-the-range S Edition, offering different levels of equipment and technology. All models come with a choice of petrol or diesel engines, and buyers can also opt for a four-wheel drive on certain models. The Kadjar boasts a spacious interior with plenty of legroom and headroom, making it a practical choice for families.
Renault Koleos (2017-present): The Renault Koleos is a premium SUV that has been on the market since 2017, offering a luxurious and comfortable driving experience. As a mid-size SUV, the Koleos sits at the top end of the market and competes with other premium SUVs such as the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and the Mercedes GLC. The Koleos distinguishes itself from its competitors by offering a range of advanced features and high levels of safety and convenience at a more affordable price point. The Renault Koleos is available in a range of models, from the entry-level Iconic to the top-of-the-range GT Line, offering different levels of equipment and technology. All models come with a choice of petrol or diesel engines and can be equipped with either two or four-wheel drive. The Koleos boasts a spacious interior with premium materials and finishes, making it a comfortable and luxurious choice for buyers. In terms of safety, the Renault Koleos has been awarded a five-star rating by Euro NCAP and comes with a range of safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. It also offers a range of convenience features, such as a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, and a Bose sound system.
Renault Twingo (2014-present): The Renault Twingo is a compact and stylish city car that is perfect for urban driving. It is known for its fun and dynamic driving experience and is available in a range of models and colours.

Renault in F1

1906: Renault wins the first Grand Prix de l'Automobile Club de France. The race was held at Le Mans, France, on June 26-27, 1906. Renault's driver, Ferenc Szisz, won the race in a 13-litre AK.
1977: Renault enters Formula 1 with a turbocharged engine. The engine was designed by Bernard Dudot and fitted to the RS01 chassis. Renault's first race was the 1977 British Grand Prix, where they finished sixth with driver Jean-Pierre Jabouille.
1979: Renault scores its first F1 victory with Jean-Pierre Jabouille at the French Grand Prix. Jabouille won the race in an RE20.
1983: Alain Prost finishes second in the Drivers' Championship, losing out to Nelson Piquet by just one point. Prost won three races in 1983, including the Belgian Grand Prix and the Italian Grand Prix.
1985: Renault withdraws from F1 at the end of the season. The decision was made due to financial problems and the team's inability to compete with the likes of McLaren and Ferrari.
1989: Renault returns to F1 as an engine supplier. The company supplies engines to Ligier, Lotus, and Williams.
1992: Williams wins the Constructors' Championship with Renault engines. Williams' drivers, Nigel Mansell and Riccardo Patrese, finish first and second in the Drivers' Championship, respectively.
1993: Williams wins the Constructors' Championship again with Renault engines. Mansell wins the Drivers' Championship again, while Patrese finishes third.
1994: Benetton wins the Constructors' Championship with Renault engines. Benetton's driver, Michael Schumacher, wins the Drivers' Championship.
1995: Benetton wins the Constructors' Championship again with Renault engines. Schumacher wins the Drivers' Championship again.
1996: Williams wins the Constructors' Championship with Renault engines. Williams' drivers, Damon Hill and Jacques Villeneuve, finish first and second in the Drivers' Championship, respectively.
1997: Williams wins the Constructors' Championship again with Renault engines. Villeneuve wins the Drivers' Championship.

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2002: Renault returns to F1 as a constructor. The team's drivers are Jarno Trulli and Fernando Alonso.
2005: Fernando Alonso wins the Drivers' Championship, and Renault wins the Constructors' Championship. Alonso won seven races in 2005, including the Spanish Grand Prix, the French Grand Prix, and the British Grand Prix.
2006: Fernando Alonso wins the Drivers' Championship, and Renault wins the Constructors' Championship. Alonso won six races in 2006, including the Australian Grand Prix, the Chinese Grand Prix, and the Hungarian Grand Prix.
2007: Renault withdraws from F1 as a constructor. The decision was made due to the team's involvement in the 'Crashgate' scandal.
2010: Renault returns to F1 as an engine supplier. The company supplies engines to Red Bull, Toro Rosso, and Lotus.
2012: Lotus F1 Team, which is powered by Renault engines, finishes third in the Constructors' Championship. Kimi Räikkönen finishes second in the Drivers' Championship.
2016: Renault buys Lotus F1 Team and rebrands it as Renault Sport F1 Team.
2018: Nico Hulkenberg finishes fourth in the Drivers' Championship, Renault's best result since 2008.
2020: Esteban Ocon wins Renault's first race since 2008 at the Hungarian Grand Prix.
2021: Renault rebrands its F1 team as Alpine F1 Team.

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Renault has a rich and illustrious history in the UK automotive industry, with a range of iconic vehicles that have captured the hearts and minds of British drivers over the years. From the early days of the Juvaquatre to the modern era of the Captur and Zoe, Renault has continued to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible in the automotive industry. With a strong focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Renault is poised to continue its success in the UK for many years to come.

Renault has been a major player in the UK automotive industry for over 70 years.
The company has introduced a number of iconic models that have become household names, such as the Renault 4CV, Renault Dauphine, Renault 5, and Renault Clio.
Renault has helped drive innovation in the UK automotive industry by introducing advanced technologies such as the Renault E-Tech hybrid and electric powertrains.
The company has played an important role in supporting the UK economy, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the growth of the automotive industry.
Renault has been recognised for its commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing emissions and promoting environmentally-friendly technologies.
Renault has established a strong reputation for quality, with a range of models that offer high levels of comfort, convenience, and safety features.
The company has been a leader in the UK electric vehicle market, with the popular Renault Zoe and a range of other electric and hybrid models.
Renault has a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, with a range of services and support options designed to meet UK drivers' needs.

UK Car Discount can help you find a brand-new Renault car that meets your needs. Our team of experts can advise you in detail on your chosen vehicle's specifications so you can make an informed decision. Contact us today at 0161 946 3500 to learn how we can help you buy your next car.

**Please note that vehicle specifications, trim levels, options, and engines are subject to change at any time. Therefore, it is important to confirm the specifications of the vehicle you are interested in at the time of purchase. Vehicle manufacturers also reserve the right to change specifications without notice.