Next Renault Clio to Be More Rugged, Gets All-Wheel Drive

French manufacturer Renault is already working on the next iteration of the Clio subcompact and it might seem like the popular hatchback will become a little more rugged when it will hit the market in 2012. Citing France's BFM radio, Leftlane News reported today that Renault will try to make the future Clio a more powerful rival for Fiat Panda 4x4 and other vehicles in the same class, so it will equip the subcompact hatchback with all-wheel drive capability.

The vehicle will get features typically used on off-roaders and, although it won't be primarily addressed to off-roading, the new Clio will boast a much more aggressive styling, somewhat like in the way a crossover does.

What's interesting is that the upcoming Clio is believed to be previewed by the CAPTUR concept that will be unveiled next week in Geneva. The concept is based on Nissan Juke's platform which, in its turn, is based on an extended wheelbase Clio platform.

According to the aforementioned source, the new Clio is very likely to hit the market sometimes in 2012 and will probably be offered in two body configuration, three and five-door. It will be made in both France and Turkey, alongside other models from Renault's lineup.

autoevolution will be attending the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, so stay tuned for some real up close and personal shots of the vehicles, as well as for first-hand details of the motorized contraptions presented at the event.