Renault refreshes Clio RS

French manufacturer Renault has upped the ante on its aging Clio RS 200 EDC and GT Line range now including the styling and equipment updates recently adopted by standard the Clio range.

Styling changes see redesigned LED head and tail-lights for the Clio RS and GT Line range and a new-look interior with updated dashboard materials, while on the technology front a revised infotainment and navigation array has been installed.

For the Clio RS, a re-profiled front fascia now includes driving and fog-lights as part of the new RS VISION package, first seen on the RS 16 Concept. New-look alloy wheels are also fitted, ranging in size from 17 to 18-inch depending on grade. Higher spec Cup and Trophy models feature 18-inch wheels exclusively.

Engine choices are unchanged for the RS line-up with a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder and six-speed Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) transmission offered in two states of tune. For the Clio RS Sport and Cup the output is listed at 147kW/240Nm while Clio RS Trophy scores a 162/260Nm version.

Clio RS Trophy models also score lower suspension (20mm lower at the front and 10mm at the rear) and a newly fitted Akrapovic exhaust system.

Renault says the Trophy’s 0-100km/h dash is unchanged at 6.6sec. Top speed is still listed at 235km/h with the standing quarter mile also unchanged at 14.5sec.

For the Clio GT Line range changes extend to a sportier look, with Dark Metal highlights for the side sills and rear diffuser, a chrome exhaust outlet and choice of 16 or 17-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, GT Line variants now include blue garnishes, an RS sports steering wheel, aluminium pedals and model-specific badging.

“The new Clio RS offers the full spectrum of Renault Sport technology for immediate driving pleasure,” said Renault Sport CEO, Patrice Ratti.

“At launch, each customer will be able to choose from three types of chassis and two powerplants. The model also inaugurates the highly efficient and innovative RS VISION lighting system, Renault Sport’s exclusive lighting signature.”

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Clio nameplate. It’s estimated more than 13 million examples of the model have been sold globally since 1991. Locally the Clio ranks tenth in the light car segment, and has sold just 1053 units year to date.

motoring.com.au is awaiting a reply from Renault Australia as to timing of the new Clio RS and GT Line models locally. It’s understood the revised standard Clio range will be in dealerships from Q4, 2016.