Skip advert
Advertisement

New Renaultsport Clio

Exclusive images show how the new Renaultsport Clio could look when it arrives in showrooms early next year

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.

Advertisement - Article continues below

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.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Renault Clio review
Renault Clio - front tracking

Renault Clio review

The Renault Clio is a star of the supermini class – stylish, well-built, good to drive and packed with tech
In-depth reviews
18 Sep 2024
Deal of the Day: Renault Clio hybrid for a penny-pinching £32 per month!
Renault Clio - front cornering

Deal of the Day: Renault Clio hybrid for a penny-pinching £32 per month!

A tiny monthly price has drawn us to the fabulous new Renault Clio as our Deal of the Day for 12 December. You do need a big deposit, though.
News
12 Dec 2023

Most Popular

Land Rover’s theft problems subside as stolen car numbers hit three-year low
Land Rover Defender - front tracking

Land Rover’s theft problems subside as stolen car numbers hit three-year low

A package of measures implemented by Jaguar Land Rover to address the issue of its cars being stolen seems to be doing the trick
News
8 Nov 2024
Car Deal of the Day: 641bhp Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is a bargain at this price
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N - front action

Car Deal of the Day: 641bhp Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is a bargain at this price

The 2024 Auto Express Performance Car of the Year is now our Deal of the Day for 7 November
News
7 Nov 2024
Car Deal of the Day: newly facelifted BMW 1 Series is a premium hatchback for £294 a month
BMW 1 Series 2024 facelift - front tracking

Car Deal of the Day: newly facelifted BMW 1 Series is a premium hatchback for £294 a month

The BMW 1 Series has been renewed with great handling and build quality – it’s our Deal of the Day for Friday 8 November
News
8 Nov 2024