Clio Renault Sport
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1998 |
| Parent | Renault |
The Clio Renault Sport (commonly known as the Clio RS) is a performance-oriented hot hatch developed by Renault Sport, Renault's dedicated motorsport and high-performance division, and has been in production since 1998. It is derived from the Clio supermini platform.
Throughout most iterations, the Clio RS featured a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four petrol engine paired with a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout and a three-door hatchback design. The most recent model transitioned to a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine and adopted a five-door hatchback configuration.
Clio II RS (172 Gen 1/Phase 1)
The inaugural RenaultSport Clio, designated as the 172, was introduced in 1999 and was based on the three-door Clio II chassis. It showcased broader wheel arches, redesigned front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and came equipped with 15-inch OZ F1 alloy wheels.
Under the hood, it housed a modified version of the 2.0-liter 16-valve Inline-4 F4R engine featuring variable valve timing and tuned by Mecachrome to deliver at 6250 rpm. Power was transmitted via a JC5-089 five-speed manual transmission, enabling acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds.
Inside, enhancements included seats upholstered in half-leather and half-Alcantara materials embossed with the RenaultSport emblem, complemented by side-impact airbags. Standard equipment featured manual air conditioning and a Radiosat 6010 stereo system delivering 60W with RDS functionality, accompanied by a six-disc multi-changer positioned beneath the passenger seat.
When launched in the UK market in January 2000, the 172 was exclusively available in Titanium Silver. By June of that year, four additional metallic paint options were introduced: Sunflower Yellow, Odyssey Blue, Pearl Black, and Flame Red. In January 2001, Titanium Silver was replaced by Iceberg Silver—a color also employed on the Phase 1 Renaultsport Clio V6.
A special edition known as the Clio 172 Exclusive was released in February 2001 with a limited run of only 172 units painted in Scarab Green. This variant featured BBS alloy wheels and upgraded full-leather 'Dune Grey' interiors instead of the standard half-leather seats. Each Exclusive model bore individually numbered door-sill tread plates bearing the RenaultSport logo.
Clio II RS (172 Gen 2/Phase 2)
In June 2001, the Clio II RS underwent a significant facelift coinciding with updates to the standard Clio II range. The redesign included new front and rear bumpers—the latter distinguished by an ABS plastic strip bisecting it—as well as refreshed headlights, bonnet, and boot lid. Paint offerings retained three Phase 1 colors—640 Iceberg Silver, 676 Pearl Black, and B76 Flame Red—while D44 Odyssey Blue was replaced by 432 Monaco Blue.
The interior received updates consistent with the facelifted Clio II model, maintaining half-leather and half-Alcantara seats embossed with the RenaultSport badge. A notable upgrade was the replacement of manual air conditioning with automatic climate control. Additional refinements comprised silver trim accents on the dashboard and a RenaultSport logo inset on the steering wheel. The gear knob transitioned from a metal ball design to one wrapped in leather featuring a silver top insert.
Equipment improvements encompassed automatic Xenon headlights with washers, rain-sensitive wipers, and from July 2002 onwards, Electronic Stability Control (ESP) became standard. Cruise control was introduced on MY2003 models, while a six-CD multi-changer became an optional feature late in 2002. The original 15-inch OZ F1 alloys were superseded by newly designed 16-inch Renault wheels.
Mechanical enhancements included revisions to the F4R engine now coded F4R 736; this version featured a redesigned cylinder head with exhaust ports approximately 30% smaller than those on Phase 1 engines. The air-box was reshaped into a squared form to optimize airflow. The JC5-129 gearbox replaced its predecessor JC5 variant and incorporated a shorter final drive ratio to compensate for increased vehicle weight. Emissions equipment changed from dual-barrel catalytic converters to a single barrel setup equipped with two lambda sensors placed before and after the catalyst. Additionally, the traditional cable-operated throttle was swapped for an electronic throttle control system that eliminated the need for an idle control valve and necessitated minor intake manifold modifications.
In 2002, Renault introduced the 172 Cup (chassis code CB1N), marketed as a "sport lightweight version" and sold in France under the name "Clio RS Jean Ragnotti." Most units were finished in D43 Mondial Blue metallic paint; approximately ninety were produced in 640 Iceberg Silver metallic. Designed primarily for Group N homologation purposes, this model differed from standard versions by omitting luxury features such as leather/Alcantara seating—replaced by durable fabric upholstery—automatic Xenon headlights replaced by manual halogen units, washer jets removed, rain-sensing wipers excluded, and no solar reflective windscreen.
The 172 Cup sported lightweight 16-inch Speedline Turini alloy wheels, matte blue door stripes, an ABS plastic "Cup" front splitter, plus a redesigned rear spoiler. Interior trim strips matched exterior paint colors rather than silver finishes. Its principal commercial advantage lay in substantial weight reduction—the kerb weight dropped to just over one metric ton (1021 kg)—achieved through removal of soundproofing materials, thinner glass usage, and elimination of air conditioning (which remained standard on regular models). This reduction contributed positively to enhanced engine output and overall performance metrics. Climate control became available as an optional extra from April 2003; however, only a minority of UK-registered units (139 out of 2392) were equipped with it.
Renault officially claimed a sprint time from standstill to 60 mph of 6.5 seconds for the Cup variant; nevertheless, AutoCar Magazine recorded an even quicker time of 6.2 seconds—making it among the fastest road-going Clios after the V6 version. Enthusiasts often regard this model as one of the last truly "hardcore" hot hatches due to its minimal electronic driver aids, lightweight construction, and potent engine performance.
The suspension system received re-engineering featuring an increased track width achieved through modified wishbones alongside new Cup-specific shock absorbers and springs—20% stiffer at the front and 10% stiffer at the rear—resulting in improved steering precision but heightened oversteer tendencies due to altered geometry coupled with absence of electronic stability control. Lacking ABS brakes led to fixed brake bias achieved by disconnecting the rear axle compensator; this caused issues during UK MOT inspections until guidance was issued by VOSA addressing compliance concerns.
Clio II RS (182)
In 2004, the Clio II underwent a subtle update, featuring modified headlight inserts shifting from black to grey, fresh wheel designs, and new color selections. The standard six-disc CD changer was discontinued but remained as an optional extra. Cruise control and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) became standard equipment.
The Clio RS received more notable enhancements with the debut of the F4R 738 engine, which differed from the F4R 736 by employing a redesigned oil breather system, rendering intake manifolds from the 172 model incompatible. Performance improvements included a 4-2-1 exhaust manifold and a high-flow 200-cell sports catalytic converter, increasing power output to at 6500rpm. A flat floor replaced the spare wheel well to make room for a newly designed dual-exit exhaust system.
Inside, updates comprised perforated alcantara seats adorned with white dots and a redesigned 8-spoke steering wheel—silver on standard trims and anthracite on "Cup Packed" editions. The Carminat Sat-Nav system was offered but saw limited popularity due to its price and performance shortcomings.
The Cup Style Pack brought back the "Cup" front splitter and rear spoiler from the 172 Cup as optional features. Meanwhile, the Cup Chassis pack included a reinforced hub with wider strut bolt spacing (60mm instead of 54mm), lowered suspension equipped with firmer shocks and springs, and anthracite alloy wheels.
Clio II RS (182 Cup)
The track-focused 182 Cup was available exclusively in J45 Racing Blue or D38 Inferno Orange and came standard with both the Cup Chassis and Cup Style Packs.
To reduce expenses, it omitted features such as automatic xenon headlights, headlight washers, climate control, illuminated sun visors, solar-reflective windscreen, automatic wipers, and rear footwell heater vents. Cloth replaced leather/alcantara seats, the rear bench was simplified, engine cover and sill plates were removed, and the steering wheel lost its RenaultSport branding along with rubber grips.
Additional cost-saving measures involved basic carpeting and headlining, a cloth documentation wallet instead of leather, removal of sound insulation materials, a single horn replacing dual horns, and elimination of the map-reading interior light. Despite these cutbacks, the 182 Cup weighed more than its predecessor, contributing to its lower commercial appeal among Clio II RS variants.
Clio II RS (182 Trophy)
The final variant of the Clio 182 series—the 182 Trophy—was built upon the 182 Cup platform with reinforced hubs featuring 60mm bolt spacing. Initially limited to 500 units in the UK market, an additional 50 cars were sold in Switzerland after Renault France's Marketing Department declined further orders due to concerns over demand.
Distinctive elements included 16-inch Speedline Turini alloy wheels sourced from the 172 Cup model, the Clio 255 V6 rear spoiler, Recaro Trendline seats, and an exclusive 727 Capsicum Red paint finish complemented by Trophy decals. Each vehicle bore an individually numbered plaque located at the base of the driver's seat.
Performance matched that of the 182 Cup but incorporated Sachs Remote-Reservoir dampers that optimized shock absorber sizing and enhanced handling characteristics. This refinement helped establish the 182 Trophy’s reputation as one of the finest hot hatches ever produced. It earned Evo Magazine's "People's Performance Car of The Year" award in 2005 and outperformed rivals like the Lamborghini Gallardo during comparative tests. AutoCar Magazine hailed it as the "World's Greatest Hot Hatch."
Clio III RS (197)
The third-generation Clio integrated technology inspired by Formula One racing such as a rear diffuser and brake cooling ducts. Engine power rose to 194 bhp (145 kW; 197 PS). Despite increased weight, acceleration improved thanks to enhanced power output, greater torque delivery, and a new six-speed gearbox featuring shorter gear ratios—resulting in superior performance figures as detailed on Renaultsport’s official site.
Clio III RS (200)
The refreshed Clio III RS 200 introduced a front splitter along with engine modifications including exhaust system upgrades, valve timing adjustments, and ECU recalibration—raising power output to 197 bhp (147 kW; 200 PS) while also improving fuel efficiency. Shortened gearing in lower ratios enhanced acceleration responsiveness; chassis refinements upgraded steering precision.
Visual changes encompassed larger tailpipes extending through the rear diffuser area, identity-colored front bumper inserts, wing mirror caps, rear diffuser enhancements, and updated interior trim. A new Alien Green paint option was added to the palette. The 200 model received acclaim from EVO magazine (ranking fifth in their top ten cars for 2009), was described by PistonHeads as "the 911 GT3 of hot hatches," and retained CAR Magazine’s "Best in Class" accolade since launch.
| Model | Displacement | Power | Top speed | 0–100 km/h | Power/Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 172 | 1998 cc | 172 PS (127 kW; 170 bhp) | 139 mph (224 km/h) | 7.3 sec | 160.38 bhp/tonne |
| 182 | 1998 cc | 182 PS (134 kW; 180 bhp) | 139 mph (224 km/h) | 7.1 sec | 161.46 bhp/tonne |
| 197 | 1998 cc | 197 PS (145 kW; 194 bhp) | 134 mph (216 km/h) | 6.9 sec | 158.88 bhp/tonne |
| 200 | 1998 cc | 200 PS (147 kW; 197 bhp) | 141 mph (227 km/h) | 6.9 sec | 161.34 bhp/tonne |
Renault continued aggressive promotion by launching multiple limited edition versions throughout the Clio RS lineup.
Gordini
The Gordini marked the initial limited edition release, with a production of 500 units in the UK and roughly 40 units in Australia, while other regions had no production limits. Offered in white and blue hues, it showcased classic off-centre stripes accompanied by a metallic Gordini emblem running from the bonnet to the rear hatch. Interior enhancements comprised a Gordini-striped steering wheel, blue stitching, leather-trimmed seats, and blue transmission fabric. It retained the original 17" 12-spoke 200 Cup wheels, with the inner sections of the spokes painted either blue or black depending on the exterior color. The design was accentuated by a gloss black front bumper and rear diffuser, with the front F1 Blade painted white on blue models and grey on white ones. Mechanically, it was identical to the standard 200 model featuring Cup suspension.
Silverstone GP
The Silverstone GP Edition was a UK-only limited run of 50 units created to honor the Silverstone Grand Prix, launched alongside the Twingo Silverstone Edition. This edition was exclusively available in Silverstone Silver and offered optional 17" Renaultsport Speedline Black alloys, which were lighter than the standard wheels. It also featured ‘Deep Black’ accents on bumpers, diffuser, mirrors, and roof. Standard fittings included Recaro seats embroidered with "Renaultsport" in silver-dot/Nardo Black fabric and an RS Monitor for tracking G-Force and lap times.
Australian GP
Exclusively available in Australia, the Australian GP Edition consisted of 31 units commemorating the Australian Grand Prix. Mirroring the Silverstone GP’s design cues, it incorporated ‘Deep Black’ detailing on front and rear bumpers, mirrors, and roof alongside optional Renaultsport 17" Speedline Black alloys. The package included standard Recaro seats and an RS Monitor. This edition was finished in Renault’s distinctive ‘Liquid Yellow,’ a color previously popularized by the 197 R27 Limited Editions.
20th Anniversary Special
Limited to just 20 units produced in 2010 to celebrate two decades of the Clio and reaching 10 million sales worldwide, the 20th Anniversary Special came in a ‘Pearlescent Givre’ white shade. It featured ‘Deep Black’ detailing consistent with the Silverstone and Australian GP editions, including a gloss black roof, front bumper, and rear diffuser. The wheels were black Speedline 17-inch models from the 200 Clio-Cup. Anthracite accents were applied to front side vents, mirrors, and the F1 Blade.
Raider
Known alternatively as the ‘Ange & Démon (Angel and Demons)’ Edition, the Raider introduced Renault’s first use of production matt paint finishes in either ‘Stealth/Hologramme Grey’ or ‘Diavolo/Torro Red.’ These colors contrasted with a gloss black roof, rear spoiler, F1-style front blade, rear diffuser, and door mirrors. The interior featured leather Recaro seats complemented by gloss black 18x8J Interlagos wheels sourced from the Megane R26.R fitted with Bridgestone REO50A tires matched to a Cup chassis setup—characterized by lowered ride height, firmer suspension tuning, and a faster steering ratio—and red Brembo brake calipers. Buyers could select between TomTom Sat Nav or RS telemetry monitor as standard options.
Red Bull
The Red Bull Limited Edition celebrated Renault’s contribution to the 2011 Constructors World Championship victory with their RB7-powered cars. These models included Cup chassis specifications, ‘yellow dot’ fabric Recaro seats, a Renaultsport Monitor, and gloss black 18x8J Interlagos wheels (from Megane R26.R) equipped with Bridgestone REO50A tires. The bodywork was finished in black paint highlighted by striking yellow accents on the front F1 blade, rear diffuser, and wing mirrors. Production was capped at 455 units exclusively for left-hand drive markets.