Renault reveals updated Clio RS pricing

Renault has launched an updated version of its Clio RS mighty-mini that’s been on sale in Australia since late 2013.

Following a couple of months behind the mainstream Clio facelift, two versions of the RS are now on sale in two chassis tunes, the Sport and the Cup.

Unfortunately, though, there no sign of the top-spec powered-up Trophy with its lowered suspension and Akrapovic exhaust system, but we live in hope!

The Sport is now priced at $30,990 plus on-road costs, while the Cup is $32,490 before on-road costs. That’s up compared to the old cars, which are being run out at $29,990 and $32,990 drive-away.

Both variants of the five-door hot hatch will continue to be powered by a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine that makes 147kW but bumps torque by 20Nm to 260Nm.

Both RS models drive their front wheels via an EDC six-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The Sport gets new-design 17-inch alloy wheels and more of an all-round suspension tune, while the Cup gets 18s and a more track-oriented tune. Other familiar technical features include hydraulic compression bump stops for improved handling and 320mm brakes discs.

Launch Control and RS Drive — which enables a choice of Normal, Sport and Race modes — continues as standard.

A feature being hyped by Renault is the new RS Vision lighting system, which was first featured on the RS 16 concept car. It has three power intensities as well as three different functionalities: fog/cornering lights, high beam and low beam.

Other new features over the outgoing Clio RS include a new front bumper design, front fog lights, front parking sensors, automatic engine stop-start, climate control air-conditioning, tyre pressure warning system, LED cabin lights, digital radio as well as a factory-fitted option of Android Auto phone mirroring.

Familiar exterior features include a spoiler, functional diffuser and twin exhaust. The rear lights carry over the C-shaped signature.

Renault offers three option packs with RS, which replace the old Premium models.

The $500 Black Pack features an F1-inspired black blade on front bumper, black boot lid and black Renault Sport badge, black rear diffuser, black trim inserts on side door protection and black 17-inch alloy wheels (Sport only, Cup has black alloys)

The $1500 Leather Pack includes dark leather upholstery with red highlights and RS badge on the front head restraints, heated front seats and height adjustable passenger seat.

The $1500 Entertainment Pack includes R-LINK navigation and multimedia system with voice control, Android Auto phone mirroring, RS Monitor, BOSE premium sound system (four speakers, two dashboard tweeters, bass box and amplifier) and R-Sound.

Metallic paint is a $550 option while signature metallic paint is a $750 option.

The Clio RS is covered by a five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty and capped-price servicing.

Renault Clio RS pricing (plus ORCs):
Sport — $30,990
Cup — $32,490