New Renaultsport Clio

A new turbo Renaultsport Clio is on the way – and we have all the information about the super hi-tech hot hatch that is set to be the hottest in its class.

Our exclusive images peel away the camouflage of a spied prototype to give you a glimpse at the look of the next-generation Clio RS.

Twelve years after the original Clio 172 was launched, the UK has grown to become Renaultsport’s key market, so this new model has some pretty big shoes to fill.

Marking out the newcomer is a deeper, more aggressive front bumper with huge air intakes, LED running lights and the signature wing running through it, which featured on the outgoing car.

But dominating the front end is the latest example of Renault’s new family face, with an oversized diamond badge set into a wide grille that flows into the headlights. The bodykit makeover continues with larger side skirts, a rear spoiler and a new rear diffuser.

However, while the current Renaultsport Clio comes only as a three-door, this latest model will be sold exclusively as a five-door. The prototype in these spy shots appears to have three doors, but the rear door handles are cleverly hidden in the C-pillars, as on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta.

Another big talking point comes under the bonnet, where Renaultsport will ditch the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre engine of the current Clio for a new turbocharged 1.6-litre that is not only more powerful, but more efficient, too.

Power should be up to around 210bhp – from 197bhp in the old car – making it the most powerful in its class. That should help to shave a few tenths off the current car’s 6.9-second 0-62mph time.

A smaller turbocharged engine will help to improve the hot Clio’s running costs, too, taking fuel economy up from 34.4mpg to more than 40mpg and cutting CO2 emissions from 190g/km to around 150g/km.

The Renaultsport model will be unveiled alongside the fourth-generation Clio at the company’s home motor show in Paris in September, although we’ll have official pictures of the regular supermini in the summer.

As with the current Clio, two separate Renaultsport models will be offered: a well equipped standard car and a stripped-out Cup version. Prices will start from around £18,000 for the Cup and £19,000 for the standard car. Sales will begin in early 2013.