The all-new Renault Clio RS is in the final stages of testing before its expected public debut at the Paris motor show in September.
French sources say the car will have a new turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine with ‘at least’ the same 197bhp as the current car’s 2.0-litre, naturally aspirated unit.
A 187bhp version of the same engine is currently in the Nissan Juke. Sources say the Renault Clio RS will also get the option of a new dual-clutch gearbox, which is expected to get paddle shifters as standard.
The Mk4 Clio is based on a new platform, gaining width and length, and will come in five-door format only. Distinctive styling, with dramatic ‘tucked-in’ side sections, large shoulders over the rear wheels and rear door handles hidden in the C-pillar is intended to project a coupé-like look. Unlike the current RS, the new version is based on the same bodyshell as the basic Clio.
The Mk4 Clio, which should be revealed in mainstream form this summer, is vital for Renault. The company is struggling, with sales dropping by 21 per cent between January and April this year as concerns about the eurozone continue.
French industry minister Arnaud Montebourg said last week that he is considering helping prop up the French car industry, with tax breaks for economical cars or a new scrapping incentive system.
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This DSG thing is being
This DSG thing is being driven by poorly conceived Euro fuel consumption tests and the desire to appeal to the lowest common denominator of driver. For owners of the preceding RS Clios, the idea of a DSG version is an abomination. There are still strong and persistent (and I sincerely hope wrong) rumours out there that the RS Clio IV may be DSG only! RS Clio fans may (just) swallow moving from NA to turbo, but Renault/RenaultSport are risking serious alienation of their existing fan base if they go DSG (or whatever acronym Renault give it) only.
This whole fuel consumption/emission thing is getting silly. When you get companies like Porsche compromising the ultimate driving feel of the their cars by adopting electronic steering to gain a lousy 0.1L/100KM then you know the world is going to hell in a hand basket. I'm all for starting to lynch greenies.
I think the new Renaut Clio
I think the new Renaut Clio will be aiming more upmarket, as Renault have the Dacia brand for lower budgets. However a 1.6 turbo should be quite a cracker.
The VAG unit
For the over-rev OK.
What I don't like it's the always active kick-down whatever the chosen mode.
It's not pleasing within a bend.
I like a predictable response of the throttle. And the best thing - I think - is a NA engine with a manual gearbox.
But for everyday the latest dual clutch boxes are very convincing.