Renault introduced a refreshed version of the 21 range in 1989, just three years after it introduced the new model on the European market.
Strangely, the carmaker unveiled the 21 in autumn 1985, but the sales started in 1986. In the following year, it sent it to the U.S. re-badged as Eagle Medalion. But Renault considered that the car deserved a visual upgrade, considering that it was sold in big numbers and it was available in various countries.

The 21 featured a different front fascia. Its edges were shaved and made rounder, while the upgraded headlights got wider. Renault installed a body-colored wrapped around bumper instead of the black one used before. For the Turbo version, the carmaker added a lower apron with a set of yellow fog lights.

Inside, the 21 featured a new dashboard. It was still wedged-shaped, but its instrument cluster was taller than the rest of the dash panel. On the upper side of the center stack, the carmaker placed the stereo, while on the lower side, under a set of center vents, it installed the climate control sliders. Depending on the engine and trim level, the 21 sported high-bolstered seats, while most of the range received just regular bucket seats.

Under the hood, Renault played an expensive card of longitudinal and transverse-mounted engines. Power ranged between 65 hp and 162 hp, and there was a new, 1.9-liter diesel unit.