1988 RENAULT 19 5 Doors 1.8L 5MT FWD (95 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Renault stepped up its game when it introduced the 19 range and came on the compact segment with a wide range of bodyworks, from a family-oriented four-door sedan to a youthful convertible.

When the French carmaker introduced the Renault 16 back in the mid-’60s, it proved that a hatchback-style could be a better solution for most problems. That idea was carried over by other carmakers and became a common feature for the compact and the small segment vehicles.

In the late ’80s, Renault unveiled the 19 range in four body shapes, which was unusual for the French brand. In the five-door version, it combined the practicality of a station wagon with the look of a sedan. For the compact segment, that was the most attractive version for families with children. Its rectangular headlights matched the late ’80s design trends. Depending on the trim level, the 19 featured black or body-colored plastic wrapped-around bumpers with or without fog lights.

Inside, the 19 offered adequate room for four people, but the bench was uncomfortable for three adult-sized passengers. At the front, the bucket seats were designed to provide enough comfort. Renault installed just the minimal dials and gauges on the dash panel while offering the tachometer on the options list. No power windows or air-conditioning were fitted as standard. Those were available as an extra option and not on all engine versions.

Under the hood, Renault installed a wide engine choice, either gasoline or diesel. For specific markets, it offered it with a three- or four-speed automatic transmission.