Hot RS Clio arrives

Renault Australia launched the latest version of the incomparable Clio hot hatch this week and with it, a lot of good news.

Two RenaultSport Clio models will be offered; both with the Cup chassis tune of the previous 197 model's F1 Team R27 version as standard. Pricing for the new Clio RS 200 Cup starts at $36,490 and $38,990 for the top-spec RS 200 Cup Trophee.

Renault Australia says it sharpened pricing for the new Clio, finding a saving of $1500 over the equivalent former base model.

At Victoria's Sandown Raceway for the launch the new RS Clio was given track time and motorkhana events to prove its abilities as a part-time racer in addition to its worth as comfortable daily-driver hatch.

The latest Clio comes standard with Bluetooth connectivity -- a notable deficiency in the otherwise complete 197 model -- but the real story is the revised engine output for the 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit, which has resulted in better figures and best yet, more low-down torque.

The naturally-aspirated engine is now good for 147kW; slightly up from the predecessor's 145kW. Torque remains at 215Nm, but most of it arrives earlier, with 95 per cent by 3000 revs, according to Renault. Fuel consumption and emissions ratings have also improved, at 8.2L/100km (compared to 8.4L) and 195g/km (versus 199g/km) respectively.

Improvements have come by way of revisions to the engine's variable valve timing system, such as allowing for more valve overlap. The latest unit has also been given a new cylinder head and updated engine control unit.

The RS Clio continues with a six-speed manual. Renault says the ratios have been reworked to provide better low down response. 0-100km/h time is 6.9sec.

The new Clio has been restyled; most notably for the fascia and interior with distinct treatments for the Cup and Cup Trophee models.

A redesigned front bumper allows more air intake while at the rear the Clio's standout diffuser has been restyled and the tailpipes are larger -- and now flush with the edge of the diffuser. The F1-inspired diffuser makes the most of the Clio's flat underbody floor, and is attributed to the Clio's stable handling at high speeds: RenaultSport claims the equivalent of 35kg downforce is created at highway speeds, and up to double that on a race circuit.

The interior has also been updated and now features re-styled seat trim and yellow-faced tacho... and to suit, matching yellow stitching for the 'straight ahead' marking on the steering wheel. The 200 Cup's dashboard is finished in anthracite-toned material and the Trophee wears a carbonfibre-look. The Trophee also comes standard with Recaro race seats.

The models are easily differentiated by wheel design: the Cup comes with 17-inch alloys in a new five-spoke design and the Cup Trophee uses the multi-spoke BeBop design.

Renault Australia also revealed the sexy new RS Megane 250... a surprise appearance considering the new hatch won't be available in local showrooms until September. The new RS Clio is at Renault dealers now.

Visit the Carsales Network again for our drive review of the new RenaultSport Clio 200 Cup and Clio 200 Cup Trophee.

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at www.carsales.mobi