Renault

In the early 1960s Renault was producing a range of small cars, including the hatchback Renault 4 and the rear-engined Renault Dauphine, but it lacked a modern successor to the larger Renault Frégate, which had been discontinued in 1960 after relatively modest production. That replacement arrived in the form of the Renault 16, a car that would prove to be one of Renault’s most important and innovative models. Formally unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1965, with series production beginning the same month at Renault’s new Sandouville plant near Le Havre, the Renault 16 went on sale in France and other left-hand-drive markets in June 1965. It successfully introduced the hatchback bodystyle to the mid-size family segment, offering exceptional practicality with a flexible interior that could be configured in different ways. Spacious, comfortable and well equipped for its price, the R16 quickly gained critical acclaim and strong sales across Europe. Initially powered by a 1,470 cc petrol engine, the range expanded in March 1968 with the launch of the 1,565 cc TS, capable of exceeding 160 km/h. In early 1969 Renault added an automatic transmission version, designated the 16 TA.

1968

1969

From 1971 onward, the Renault 16 underwent a series of updates that refreshed the model while preserving its distinctive hatchback concept. The most noticeable change was the introduction of new, larger rear light units, replacing the earlier slimmer design and giving the car a more contemporary appearance. Inside, the dashboard and instrumentation were revised to improve ergonomics and clarity, and materials were upgraded in line with evolving customer expectations in the early 1970s. Over a production run lasting 15 years, more than 1.8 million units were built, confirming the Renault 16 as both a commercial and conceptual success.

1971