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NEWS
Full details: Renault Clio RS200
Renault releases full technical specs of its tantalising new turbocharged Clio RS200, which is faster and lighter than its predecessorArguably the greatest affordable hot-hatch on the market has – at least on paper – become even more formidable in its fourth-generation iteration.
The most significant news is that Renault’s all-new Clio RS200 ditches atmo power in favour of a new 1.6-litre direct injection turbo engine that pushes out 147kW at 6000rpm (the same output as its predecessor), but tellingly, there is now 240Nm (25Nm more than before), on tap from 1750rpm to 5500rpm.
One of the few criticisms of the old Clio RS focused on its lack of low- and mid-range grunt, with the peak torque quota not arriving until 5400rpm.
The newcomer promises to be a lot sprightlier, not only as a result of its fatter and flatter torque curve, but also as a result of its lightened kerb weight – down from 1240kg to 1204kg.
Renault quotes a 0-100km/h split of 6.7sec, which theoretically makes the car slightly quicker than a Mk6 VW Golf GTI in the traffic-light Grand Prix. Top whack is quoted at 230km/h. which isn’t too shabby for a 1.6-litre car.
Mimicking the German hotshoe, the new Clio RS gains a six-speed dual-clutch sequential gearbox with steering column-mounted paddle shifters and a multi-change down function that’s claimed to be a first for any vehicle outside the supercar ranks.
Among the go-faster Clio’s other tech highlights is that it’s claimed to be the first production car with hydraulic compression stops in its shock absorbers (usually the preserve of rally cars).
The dynamic tweaks include recalibrated steering and MacPherson strut front suspension, and the rear axle now has 10 per cent increased anti-roll bar stiffness. There are also bigger brakes – 320mm versus 312mm – than before.
Meanwhile, the new R.S. Drive system has three driving modes – Normal, Sport and Race – that alter the settings for the engine, throttle response, steering and ESC (stability control) mapping. In Race mode, gearshifts are completed in less than 150 milliseconds, claims Renault.
ESC and traction control can be disabled in Race mode, and there is also a Launch Control feature for optimum getaways.
Handling balance and cornering grip have never been weaknesses in the Clio RS, but the newbie should move the game on via its R.S. Diff, which is claimed to enhance lateral grip, as well as sharpening standing-start performance acceleration.
The Optional Cup chassis lowers ride height by 3mm, in addition to bringing 15 per cent firmer springs, a quicker steering rack and gloss black 18-inch Renaultsport wheels shod with Dunlop Sport Maxx tyres. Visually, Cup cars can be identified by their red brake calipers
While on the subject of visuals, the Clio 4 RS is distinguished by its coupe-like five-door profile, F1 blade front bumper, Renaultsport rear spoiler and diffuser, twin exhausts, daytime-running lights and side sills
Inside, there are red highlights on the seatbelts, instrument needles, air vent surrounds, gearlever knob and gaiter, with the options list including full leather upholstery, a rear view camera and an R.S. Monitor on-board telemetry system that displays real-time torque, G-forces, lap times and standing starts among other info (the data is downloadable to USB)
The Clio RS will be offered in five body colours, including the in-yer-face Liquid Yellow pictured alongside. Renault advises that the RS200 will reach Australia early in 2014. Price and specification for the local market are yet to be decided.
Watch out for our first drive of the Clio RS200 next month.
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Written byGautam Sharma
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