2009 Renault Clio RenaultSport 200 and Clio RS 200 Cup review and pictures

Renault Clio RenaultSport 200 and Clio RS 200 Cup review:

For several years, the Renaultsport version of the brand`s best-selling hatchback has been unanimously acclaimed by enthusiasts as one of the best performance hatches in its class, and definitely one of the most fun to drive. Building on this success, Renault has chosen the 2009 Geneva Motor Show to reveal the New Clio Renaultsport 200.

In the UK, this pedigree Renaultsport model comes in a choice of two versions in order to meet the demands of two distinct types of customer:

Clio Renaultsport 200 is equipped with the sport chassis and targets customers looking for a comfortable, well-equipped sporting hatchback;

Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup is for enthusiasts looking for a fusion of performance and a sporty ride. This version is 36kg lighter than the 200 version and boasts the best weight-to-power ratio of its class (166hp/tonne).

New Clio Renaultsport 200 boasts the same ingredients that have forged the success of its predecessors, such as:

Formula 1-derived aerodynamics, including front-wing air-extractors, a functioning rear diffuser and a front splitter, all of which are unique in its class,

independent steering axis front suspension for precise handling and traction in all conditions, unique in the segment,

durable braking performance, thanks notably to the fitment of Brembo front callipers,

a new specification of the 2.0 16V engine: enhanced power and responsiveness combined with reduction in CO2.

New Clio Renaultsport 200 is manufactured at the Alpine factory in Dieppe, France and will be launched in the UK in May.

NEW CLIO RENAULTSPORT 200

Since 2000, the successive variants of Clio RenaultSport have made it the best-selling performance hatchback in its class, with worldwide sales totalling more than 70,000 cars. The strengths of the chassis, brakes and steering of the Clio Renaultsport 197 combined with the precision of its gearbox have resulted in the model being widely praised as the class leader, by the media and demanding owners alike. To provide a match that is more closely tailored still to the demands and needs of its customers, Renaultsport unveils today the 200 and 200 Cup versions.

Clio Renaultsport 200 is aimed at drivers looking for a comfortable, well-equipped, status-enhancing car which places the accent on driving pleasure. New Clio Renaultsport 200 features the sport chassis which, like the car`s acoustic performance, has been upgraded with a view to delivering great ride/handling balance. A range of ‘Renault i.d.’ personalisation options make this new sporting model from the Renaultsport stable truly unique, including a new, wider range of body colours, interior trims, upholsteries (including leather) and alloy wheels. A long list of equipment from the Clio 2009 range is available, too, including the new Carminat TomTom® navigation system, a hands-free card, cruise control and speed limiter.

Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup stands out through its harder character and performance and will appeal to the enthusiasts who are passionate about their driving. Equipped with the stiffer Cup chassis, it is 36kg lighter than the standard 200 version. This version has a lower equipment level than the standard Clio Renaultsport 200.


A sporty, naturally-aspirated engine with a specific power output of 100hp/litre
Clio Renaultsport 200 is powered by the same normally-aspirated 2.0 16V engine (F4R RS). With a specific power output of 100hp/litre, this powerplant delivers extremely high performance. Peak power has been increased by 3hp to 200hp at 7,100rpm and now produces its maximum torque of 215Nm at 5,400rpm (compared with 5,500rpm for Clio Renaultsport 197). The first, second and third gear ratios have all been shortened for punchier acceleration. The new Clio Renaultsport 200 accelerates from standstill to 62 mph in just 6.9 seconds. The top speed increases by 2mph to 141mph.

Another benefit of the work that has gone into this powertrain is the fact that its fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been slightly reduced to 34.5mpg in the combined cycle and 195g/km.

Genes shared with the other members of the Clio 2009
A long list of safety and travelling comfort equipment has been carried over from Clio 2009 to the Clio Renaultsport 200 range, including:

Carminat TomTom®, the first integrated sat nav system for less than £500,

hands-free card,

Two stereo upgrades: Sound Pack and Bluetooth® Sound Pack

electric sunroof,

cruise control with speed limiter,

automatic climate control,

automatic lights and wipers.

In day-to-day use, occupants will particularly appreciate the spacious cabin and generous boot space, two hallmarks of Clio 2009.

Clio Renaultsport 200 is built on the same platform and is equipped with the third-generation Renault System for Restraint and Protection (SRP3). Like Clio III, which obtained a five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating in 2005, it is engineered to provide uncompromising protection for all occupants.

NEW CLIO RENAULTSPORT: DIMENSIONS AND TECHNICAL DATA

Compared with its predecessor
DIMENSIONS Overall length (mm) 4,017 (+26mm)

Wheelbase (mm) 2,585 (unchanged)

Front overhang (mm) 826 (+26mm)

Rear overhang (mm) 606 (unchanged)

ENGINE

Cubic capacity (cc) 1,998 (unchanged)

Maximum power (hp) 200 +3hp

At 7,100rpm -150rpm

Maximum torque Nm CEE 215 (unchanged)

At 5,400rpm -150rpm

SUSPENSION

Front Independent steering axis front suspension (unchanged)

Rear Programmed deflection torsion beam (unchanged)

STEERING Electric variable power steering Revised calibration

TYRES 215 / 45 R17 (unchanged)