Here is the all new 2013 Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo – and what a looker it is. Five door only and with a 1.6 litre turbocharged engine, it is a complete departure from every previous iteration of the car, which always had a naturally aspirated high revving engine as the main feature. Not only that, but there’s now a double clutch paddle shift and no sign of a manual in sight. Perhaps this is just a reflection of the times, but surely a car that’s easier to live with, better for the environment and quick shifting is only a good thing?
Also apparent is a three way selectable driving mode – from Normal, Sport and Race. Renault is selling it almost as three cars in one, with each mode offering something very different. What doesn’t change is the corking engine, which will spin up very nicely and offer 25Nm more torque than the previous car.
The optional Cup chassis gives 3mm lowered ride height, 15% stiffer chassis and quicker steering rack, red brake callipers and gloss black 18” Renaultsport wheels shod with Dunlop Sport Maxx TT tyres. It costs an additional £450 over the list but you can combine it with the Lux car which means you get the best of both worlds.
Thanks to the fitment of R-Link, Lux buyers will be able to enjoy this built-in fun app for free, which reproduces the sound of several high-performance engines and plays them back via the car’s own speakers. A choice of seven sounds is available, three of which are specific to the new Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo (Alpine A110, R8 Gordini and Nissan GT-R).
Pricing? From £18,995 for the standard car and £19,995 for the Lux. Orders start 8th April 2013. As you can tell, this car is highly recommended if you can get over the double clutch only gearbox.
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