The previous generation Renault Clio RS was something incredible, setting the standard in dynamic hot hatchery for the duration of its production. But now, the new Clio RS has arrived in South Africa with big shoes to fill. Can the dual-clutch, turbocharged RS 200 EDC live up to expectations?
The new Clio RS 200 EDC is based off the Clio 4 platform, but with all the dials turned up to 11. Powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, the same engine found in the Nissan Juke 1.6 DIG-T, producing 147kW and 240Nm, the new Clio RS drives the front wheels via a 6-speed twin-clutch gearbox. It is capable of a 0-100km/h sprint time of 6.7 seconds and is able to push on to a top speed of 230km/h. Whilst the dual-clutch gearbox will disappoint many purist fans, it does come with a launch control function for perfect launches, every time.
Styling on the RS is typical of the Renault Sport division, with extensive bodywork such as the front F1 blade, rear diffuser and rear lip spoiler, all inspired by the Renault Formula 1 involvement. The Clio RS 200 EDC is available in 5 body colours, including Liquid Yellow.
The interior of the Clio RS features many sporty accents to accentuate the RS performance. Upgrades include red detailing in contrast with the dominant black trim, with red seatbelts and instrument needles. All visible stitching, air vent surrounds, and door panel beading has been finished in red too. The Clio RS features Dark Metal gear shift paddles mounted to the steering column, in addition to the sport steering wheel. Finishing off the interior are bucket seats, with additional side-support for intense cornering.
The Clio RS comes loaded with kit, as does the standard Clio, with features including launch control, an electronic differential,RS Drivefor sportier performance, hill start assistance, cruise control, and climate control. The RS 200 EDC is available in 2 specifications, Lux and Cup, with several styling and performance elements differing between the 2. The Lux derivative features 17-inch alloy wheels with Goodyear Eagle F1 205/45 R17 tyres, while the Cup sports 205/40 R18 Dunlop Sport Maxx rubber on gloss black 18-inch alloys. The Cup also features dark-tinted rear quarter glass and rear windscreen, the option of Liquid Yellow paint, the RS Monitor and R-link systems (R-Link is a connected multimedia tablet with a 7-inch touch screen, voice control, TomTom navigation, audio streaming and Bluetooth capability), Cup chassis, and red brake calipers.
The new Clio RS 200 EDC is available to order from Renault dealerships, standard with a 5-year/150 000km warranty and 3-year/30 000km service plan. Pricing on the Clio RS is as follows:
New Clio Renault Sport 200 EDC LUX: R294 900
New Clio Renault Sport 200 EDC CUP: R314 900
Look out for the full TC-R road test at the end of next month.
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