On the back of significant acclaim for New Clio, Renault’s now laying down the gauntlet to the “hot” supermini brigade with confirmation of the latest details for the New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo. The new model takes things onto a whole new level, both in terms of overall driver appeal and being able to enjoy every day. Under its sleek five-door bodyshell, New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo packs the new Renaultsport-developed 200hp, 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine, as well as its performance arm’s first EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) transmission.
Naturally, there is a liberal sprinkling of Renaultsport’s magic, including a few tricks learned from its motor sport success. Combine this with Renault’s very latest thinking when it comes to comfort and versatility, and you have a compelling car which is great to drive and easy to live with. But, when the mood takes them, drivers can also let it off its leash to become a genuine performance car, as well as a potent trackday car.
In addition to its sensuous styling, the new Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo combines class-leading dynamics with impressively reduced fuel consumption and emissions, down by almost a quarter, so that it’s even cheaper to own. Designed and engineered by Renaultsport, the latest in a long line of iconic hot Clios is made in Dieppe, France, and targets those who appreciate beautiful cars and exacting purists alike.
“New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo joins the Renault Clio line-up at the very top, not only because of its performance potential, but also because of its exclusive appointments and specification. In addition to being ideally suited to everyday motoring, It impresses by the fact that it is so easy to drive, as well as by its unprecedented comfort and low fuel consumption which make it a more versatile machine than any other sporting Clio that has gone before it.”
Ali Kassaï (Programme Vice-President – A/B Range, Renault)
It is obviously tempting to describe New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo as the ‘flagship’ Clio. Needless to say, our purist customers – who have always been uncompromising when it comes to performance – will discover a car that is not only extremely fast, but also a thrill to drive and packed with unrivalled technical innovations. Indeed, Renault Sport Technologies has succeeded in bringing to life all the know-how it has gained in motor sport during the last decades in the design of New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo. It is a genuine Renaultsport model.”
At the same time, our more pragmatic customers who are drawn by its look, but who tend to be wary of ‘radical’ cars, also promise to be won over very quickly. The settings of New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo can be adjusted to deliver exceptional performance when required, or a more rational ride the rest of the time. In this market, where the quest for ‘high-end’ motoring enjoyment goes hand-in-hand with the search for performance, proposing two cars in one is a highly innovative approach.”
Patrice Ratti (CEO, Renault Sport Technologies)
RENAULT CLIO RENAULTSPORT 200 TURBO: EMOTION AND PERFORMANCE
The release of New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo sees Renaultsport instantly add recognisable sports styling to Clio’s inherent ‘emotional’ appeal.
“The design of a sporting car needs to speak directly to the hearts of exacting enthusiasts. New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo, is a compact car which is simply bursting with energy. Our objective was to produce a design which expressed not only the notion of performance but also control and agile handling. Whether the car is at a standstill or on the move, the same sensation of controllable sports performance is felt behind its steering wheel.”
Eric Diemert (Design Director, Renault Sport Technologies)
SPORTING CUES REVISITED BY RENAULT SPORT TECHNOLOGIES
New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo boasts simple, sensuous lines which place the accent on emotion, underpinned by several details readily associated with high performance and F1.
The latest creation from Renaultsport stands out through the authenticity of its sporting hallmarks which include specific bumpers and sills, twin exhaust tail-pipes and large-diameter wheels. While the five-door architecture and coupé profile contribute to its impressive versatility, the performance elements championed by Renaultsport are still clearly evident.
AN ELEGANT, YET HIGH-TECH EXTERIOR
The styling details of Renaultsport cars also play a technical role. The diffuser and rear lip spoiler, for example, were conceived as a whole – just as they are in the case of a single-seater race car – for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. Indeed, the diffuser contributes 80 per cent of the extra downforce generated at the rear, while the other 20 per cent is accounted for by the specifically designed lip spoiler. Like the front F1 blade, the diffuser and rear lip spoiler are hallmark features across the Renaultsport range and serve as a reminder of the success enjoyed by Renault in motor racing’s premier series, Formula 1.
At the front, the grille incorporates R.S. badging beneath the Renault logo, while the LED daytime running lights in the lower part of the bumper form a visual signature that is recognisable day or night. The exhaust tail pipes form a fully integrated part of the diffuser and are further highlighted by their tell-tale rectangular surround.
New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo is available in a choice of five body colours, including the exclusive, emblematic Liquid Yellow.
Renault i.d. non-metallic finish: Glacier White Renault i.d. metallic finishes: Flame Red, Renault i.d. Liquid Yellow* (*exclusive Renaultsport colour) Metallic finishes: Deep Black, Mercury
The standard 17-inch ‘Renaultsport’ alloy wheels can be upgraded for optional Gloss Black or anthracite ‘Renaultsport’ 18-inch wheels.
A COMFORTABLE, YET VIBRANT INTERIOR
In contrast to the elegance of the dominant black trim, a number of red details irresistibly draw the eye and structure the shape of the cabin. The choice of red for New Clio, a colour readily associated with the notion of passion’, is also evocative of the sporty additions introduced by Renaultsport, with the seatbelts and instrument needles being two striking examples. Red has also been used for the visible stitching, the sports steering wheel’s ‘straight ahead’ position marker, the air-vent surrounds and door panel beading. The gear lever knob, too, comes with red touches which are echoed by the visible stitching of the gear lever gaiter.
The anthracite gearshift paddles are fixed behind the steering wheel, while the grey instrument backgrounds are specific to Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo. When the engine is fired up, the rev-counter and fuel gauge needles come to life with a fun display.
A long-standing strength of Renaultsport models, the bucket seats come with additional lateral support in order to provide the high level of seating comfort and stability expected of a Clio flagship. They can also be upholstered in black leather with visible red stitching.
The black gloss centre console houses the 7” touchscreen with R-Link and integrated TomTom navigation with a chrome surround.
A COMFORTABLE, EVERYDAY DRIVE THAT COULD BE QUITE HARD TO CATCH…
New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo can be adapted on demand to suit its driver’s moods and desires, according to the type of journey required: calm or downright sporty, urban or motorway, a family outing or something purely hedonistic. It adapts instantly by adjusting the response and parameters of the engine, EDC (efficient dual clutch) transmission, steering, throttle inputs and ESC. Its traditionally dynamic Renault Sport chassis combines with a degree of suspension comfort that is rare for a car of such sporting character.. In any situation, its adaptability enables it to satisfy the whims of every driver...irrespective of temperament. It has a multi-faceted personality developed by Renault Sport Technologies.
DOWNSIZED TURBO ENGINE, EDC TRANSMISSION, STEERING WHEEL PADDLES
The combination of the 1.6 turbocharged petrol engine and twin-clutch six-speed gearbox is unique to New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo. Its 200 horsepower and 240Nm of torque can be fully exploited via perfectly matched gear ratios that can be selected automatically or manually.
The marriage of this engine with the EDC transmission lies at the heart of the meticulous development carried out by Renaultsport. Apart from the specific set-up work undertaken for New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo, the engine benefits from detailed fine-tuning of the air inlet, distributor, throttle and turbo.
Key objectives:
- increased torque from lower in the rev range to improve driveability
- power and greater reach at the top of the rev band to underline the car’s sporting character.
- lively response thanks to a peak torque figure of 240Nm from just 1,750rpm
- significantly more responsiveacross a wide power band, plus a particularly dynamic temperament.
The New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo is 36kg lighter than its predecessor, and even with its hallmark versatility, it retains startling performance when judged against the stopwatch: the 0-62 mph sprint takes just 6.7 seconds, it can cover 1,000 metres in only 27.1 seconds from a standing start and on a racetrack it is capable of reaching a top speed of 143 mph.
In less extreme circumstances, the new Clio flagship charms with its docile manner and ease of use. In terms of driving comfort, it lacks for nothing when measured against its main class rivals.
When let off its leash, New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo is ready to exploit the full range of its potential in line with the individual capabilities of its driver.
“Our target was to maximise the full potential of the direct-injection engine mated to the twin-clutch transmission. Beyond mere cutting-edge performance, though, we worked hard to ensure the car was pleasant to drive and provided good feedback. Its three modes (‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’) correspond with the requirements of any driver, including the most sporting. This is a new technology for our customers, accessible, practical and clearly identifiable.”
Renaud Hantz (Powertrain Driveability Leader, Renault Sport Technologies)
A CHASSIS DEVELOPED BY THE RENAULTSPORT EXPERTS
At the heart of Renaultsport’s expertise, engineers have focused on the chassis performance. Their goal was to improve the comfort, handling, road holding and braking expected of a Renaultsport model.
“We wanted to give New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turboeverything a driver might expect from a hot hatch: minimal body roll, huge straight-line and cornering potential, responsive steering and high levels of comfort that reflect the car’s versatility.”
Philippe Mérimée (Chief Chassis Dynamics Engineer, Renault Sport Technologies)
Front suspension: a pseudo-MacPherson strut layout has been retained with sturdier elements to increase stiffness in the unit incorporating wheel, upright, bearings and damper. A larger damper improves hydraulic performance and offers a better compromise in terms of comfort and body roll. Similarly, the front brakes rely on proven technology with generous dimensions (320mm discs, like the Laguna V6)...
Rear suspension: the thicker anti-roll bar is 10 per cent stiffer than that on Clio III Renaultsport....and 60 per cent more so than that on New Clio. Brake discs measure 260mm.
HYDRAULIC COMPRESSION CONTROL
Irrespective of conditions, New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo blends sharp road holding with an unusually high degree of comfort that’s rare in a car of such performance. Hydraulic compression control plays a direct part.
The principle hinges on the incorporation of a secondary damper within the main damper’s body. It’s a solution that yields spectacular results in terms of progressivity, comfort and performance. Yet while the idea looks simple on paper, the technical reality is a little less so and required all Renault Sport Technologies’ engineering know-how.
New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo embraces an innovation that Renault’s performance division has developed for about 15 years in rallying and is now ready for showroom models.
“Hydraulic compression control complements the traditional action of classic, polyurethane bump stops. As its absorption capabilities are significantly improved, it can react later to wheel movements. The suspension thus performs in a much more linear manner that has two main benefits:
- obstacles and poor road surfaces are much better absorbed, without any ‘rebound’ effect.
- tyres are subjected to less extreme load variations, which increases the potential for frontal grip and makes for more progressive handling when driving briskly.
Furthermore, thanks to tyres developed in partnership with Goodyear®/Dunlop®, the car maintains a high standard of grip and progressive handling on wet surfaces.”
Fabien Berthomieu (Chassis Engineer, Renault Sport Technologies)
R.S. DIFF: THE ELECTRONIC DIFFERENTIAL BY RENAULT SPORT TECHNOLOGIES
Patented by Renault Sport Technologies, the electronic differential significantly improves New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo’s accelerative performance and cornering grip. It also limits the onset of understeer (the tendency for a car to push straight ahead during hard cornering). To achieve this, the system constantly monitors the difference in rotational speed between the (driven) front wheels and compares this with any difference between the two unpowered wheels at the rear. The latter is always a valuable barometer, because the rear wheels are independent and each corners at an ideal rotational speed in relation to the other.
As soon as there is too great a speed difference between the front wheels, it means one is about to break traction. The system detects as much and the R.S. Diff deploys micro braking on whichever front wheel threatens to lose grip, although engine torque is not reduced. Note that this feature intervenes before the ESC traction control.
The R.S. Diff has a number of advantages, not least that drivers do not become frustrated by sudden torque restrictions. The system is very progressive and is barely perceptible during deployment.
TWO CHASSIS OPTIONS: SPORT OR CUP
As with all Renaultsport models, the New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo is available with a choice of two chassis. The optional Cup chassis is tailored for even greater performance: it is 3mm lower, 15 per cent stiffer and benefits from a quicker steering rack.
PACKED WITH INNOVATIONS DEVELOPED FOR THE SOLE PURPOSE OF DRIVING PLEASURE
As two cars in one, New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo boasts a package of unprecedented innovations for its segment. For everyday use, in ‘Normal’ mode, it delivers all the qualities expected of a Clio, namely a supple ride, a high level of travelling comfort and low running costs. But switch to the more dynamic ‘Sport’ or ‘Race’ modes, and its unmistakable sporty characteristics become apparent at once.
R.S. DRIVE: ‘A LA CARTE’ PERFORMANCE
Pressing the ‘R.S. Drive’ button modifies the mapping of both the transmission (gear shift programming and shift time) and engine (response to pedal position and engine pitch). It also alters the way the ESC and ASR traction control intervene, as well as the feel of the power steering.
This system is based on a choice of three very different modes (‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’) which modify New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo’s performance characteristics as a function of the driver’s wishes, needs or usage. As a result, the latest Clio Renaultsport is truly several cars in one.
The gear shift programming depends on a number of vehicle-related parameters (accelerator pedal position, pressure on the brake pedal, steering wheel angle), as well as on road conditions (slope, available grip, etc.). Gear shift speeds are also dependent on the load demanded by the accelerator pedal.
PERFECTLY OPTIMISED STARTS THANKS TO LAUNCH CONTROL
Thanks to Launch Control, New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo fully automates the management of standing starts when the car is used at a circuit. Smart electronics guarantee the fastest possible getaway, in complete safety. With this function selected, and by optimising all the different parameters involved, New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo is capable of leaping off the start line far more efficiently than even the most talented driver could ever do.
Extremely simple to use
The Launch Control system is primed by pressing on the brake with the left foot while at the same time pulling on the two gearshift paddles situated behind the steering wheel. The system’s activation is confirmed by a message on the dashboard (“Launch Control On”) and an orange flashing ‘ambilight’ (if function ‘authorised’). When the accelerator is fully depressed with the car at a standstill, the engine revs to 2,500rpm.
‘Sport’ mode: When the brake is released, the system optimises its acceleration while wheel spin is controlled by the ASR traction control. Gears shifts are also optimised.
‘Race’ mode: the ASR traction control is disconnected and gear shifts are entirely manual. This ‘expert’ mode is efficient when grip is optimal, but it is also much more demanding in terms of car control.
In order to protect the mechanicals, the Launch Control system is constantly monitored by the car’s electronics which may temporarily prevent it from triggering.
R-LINK FOR UPGRADED R.S. MONITOR 2.0
R.S. Monitor accentuates its lead with the introduction of a new version 2.0. Now even more attractive and more technically advanced, it stands out as the market’s most comprehensive on board telemetry system for a production road car.
“R.S. Monitor 2.0’s particularly extensive list of functions, including data logging, plus the storage and sharing of data using a USB stick, opens up endless possibilities. Equipped with R-Link, there is nothing on the market to rival it. The scope of the new 2.0 version and the passion that went into the project are typical of Renault Sport’s unique approach.”
Pierre Papin (R.S. Monitor Electronics Architect, Renault Sport Technologies)
Comprehensive and fun
R.S. Monitor 2.0’s customisable display uses dials, histograms and highly visual graphics to provide the following data in real-time:
- Torque, power, water temperature, intake air temperature, turbo pressure, throttle valve aperture, brake pressure, steering wheel angle, engine speed, transmission oil temperature, temperature of EDC clutches, wheel torque, etc.
- Performance data (acceleration times from standstill to 50kph and 100kph; 400m and 1,000m standing start times; 100kph to standstill braking times).
- G Force Diagram: longitudinal and lateral acceleration, with display of maximum recorded values. Screenshots can be saved on a USB stick.
- Wheel spin (expressed as a percentage) of driven wheels.
- Torque and power curves and position of real-time values on the curves.
- Graphic display showing the EDC transmission internals: selected gear, pre-selected gear, clutch temperature.
- Stop watch, either manual or activated automatically by GPS system (track layout uploadable from a USB stick).
- Servicing: provides distances covered by tyres, dampers, brake pads and discs since their fitment.
- Driving tips in text form.
- Car settings:
- ‘Shift light’: adjusts the timing of gear shift indications.
- ‘Steering’: forces use of either the ‘Normal’ or ‘Sport’ modes.
- Data logger: R.S. Monitor 2.0 can record all the parameters displayed during a session at a circuit and match them to the corresponding GPS coordinates. This makes it possible to read them on a computer. The car’s position can be displayed on a map (satellite view) along with a dynamic display of all associated driving parameters. Everything can be recorded: an hour’s driving can be stored in a single 3MB file. The results can be viewed using software that will be available to customers at a later date.
In 2009, Renaultsport used the display and audio controls of Mégane Renaultsport to propose R.S. Monitor. The first use of ‘telemetry’ for a sports hatch, this fun, easy-to-use system was an instant hit. In 2012, R.S. Monitor was specified on almost 30% of Twingo Renaultsport orders, more than 40% of Clio R.S. orders and more than 50% of Mégane Renaultsport orders.
R.S. SOUND PIPE
Renaultsport was not content to just fine-tune the signature exhaust sound of New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo. It believes that a performance car should produce a satisfying sound inside the car, so the engine noise is amplified mechanically by a membrane and transmitted via a pipe into the cabin. The system allows occupants to enjoy its vibrant engine note even more intimately.
R-SOUND EFFECT: THE APP WHICH REPRODUCES THE SOUND OF LEGENDARY CARS
Coupled with the R-Link tablet, this fun application reproduces the sound of several high-performance engines and plays them back via the car’s own loud speakers. A choice of seven sounds is available, three of which are specific to New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo (Alpine A110, R8 Gordini and Nissan GT-R).
A sound-management algorithm takes into account the engine speed, accelerator pedal position and speed to guarantee an astonishingly realistic sound experience. Parameters like volume can be adjusted using the R-Link screen.
EFFICIENCY WHERE YOU LEAST EXPECT IT
There is more to New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo than just driving pleasure and cutting-edge performance. With combined cycle fuel consumption of 44.8 mpg, it sets new standards in terms of economy and environmental sensitivity. As for comfort, the latest Renaultsport firecracker scotches the theory that sharp handling always equates to an uncomfortably firm ride. It fulfils its rich promise with efficiency in every sense.
A 2-LITRE GAIN IN TERMS OF ECONOMY
New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo uses just 44.8 mpg, equivalent to CO2 emissions of only 144g per kilometre. Compared with the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre engine under the bonnet of the previous generation, this represents a saving of almost 25 per cent. As a result, in the UK it means an impressive VED cost of £135, a saving of £325 on its predecessor.
SURPRISINGLY COMFORTABLE
Whether you’re talking seats or suspension, New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo attains levels of comfort far higher than you’d expect from a car of such sporting temperament. But, with no loss of driver appeal.
TOP-OF-THE-RANGE SPECIFICATION
New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo is both a high-performance hatchback and a flagship for the rest of the New Clio range. To this end, it is fitted with a remarkably high level of standard equipment, including a steering wheel that’s adjustable for reach and rake, heated electric mirrors, touchscreen satellite navigation (R-Link), hands-free kit, Radio Bluetooth®, USB socket, Bass Reflex speaker system, cruise control, speed limiter, auto windscreen wipers, climate control, body coloured rear parking sensors or rear parking camera (the latter is an option linked to R-Link) and fold-flat rear seat with 60/40 split.
“New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo is a car that really can be used every day. It combines fun with practicality in a manner few other sporting cars manage. That opens to the door to a number of fresh target markets, particularly among female motorists.”
Véronique Chanoni (New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo Project Leader, Renault Sport Technologies).
Philippe Varet (Technical Development Deputy Director, Renault Sport Technologies)
DRAWING INSPIRATION FROM MOTORSPORT
To underline the value of its technical expertise, Renault has always been prepared to accept challenges in the exacting world of motorsport. New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo demonstrates that Renault might invest a lot of passion in competition, but does so with the objective of developing and mastering new technologies... something that directly benefits its standard production models.
PERFORMANCE, ENERGY EFFICIENCY, RELIABILITY
“Renault Sport’s competition activities would make little sense if our production cars didn’t benefit directly and if there weren’t genuine advantages for our customers.”
Thierry Landreau (Technical Director, Renault Sport Technologies)
Challenging for technology and humanity alike, Renault regards all forms of motorsport – and especially Formula 1, the pinnacle within its domain – as incomparable research laboratories that allow fresh innovations to be tested and proven.
Among the cutting-edge technologies that demonstrate Renault’s gift as an engine manufacturer and have profited from the input of Renault Sport F1, you’ll find direct injection, variable valve timing, brake energy recovery, diamond-like carbon tappets and a whole range of other ideas associated with friction reduction.
There are also some more visible innovations that drew their inspiration from motorsport, including hydraulic compression control (from rallying) and R.S. Monitor 2.0 – a real telemetry system. Within this market sector, you won’t find such finely honed technology on any other cars.
But such innovations are worthwhile only because of the simple but genuine advantages they confer. In Formula 1 as in everyday motoring, Renault seeks to give its customers performance, energy efficiency and reliability.
CLIO CUP: FROM ROAD TO TRACK... THAT OPTION WORKS, TOO
Links between road and track work both ways and it’s possible to develop a production car for motorsport. That’s the case with New Clio Cup, the latest racer to emerge from the Clio family.
Developed from New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo, New Clio Cup is a striking innovation for the 2013 season. Developed by Renault Sport Technologies, it will compete exclusively in the Clio Eurocup this season before a number of domestic championships are launched in 2014.
“The drivetrain of New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo represents a first for Renault. The project development cycle was relatively short in both a technical and manufacturing sense. And New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo reached the market, together with its Cup derivative, just six months after the main Clio range. That’s the kind of challenge we relish, a performance made possible by the flexibility of the Renault Sport Technologies team and its factory in Dieppe.”
Philippe Varet (Technical Development Deputy Director, Renault Sport Technologies)
F1 CONNECTIONS THAT OWE NOTHING TO CHANCE
A 1.6-litre turbo engine
A preview of the engine configuration that will become mandatory in F1 from the 2014 season. F1 intends to reduce consumption by about 30% and that had a major influence on New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo.
A wing/diffuser set-up that improves the compromise between drag and lift
In this domain, too, New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo draws on experience gleaned by the Renault F1 team during this millennium’s first decade.
DLC-coated camshaft tappets
Used in F1, this surface treatment reduces friction and isn’t restricted only to sporting models in the Renault range.
Steering wheel paddles with fast-action multiple downchange
As in F1, it is now possible to change down several gears at once when braking, simply by keeping the steering wheel paddle despressed.
R.S. Monitor 2.0: telemetry for all
A by-product of the complex, sophisticated systems used in motorsport, attractively presented in a style inspired by the world of video gaming.
Launch Control: just like a racing driver…
Launch Control for New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo was inspired by the automatic starting systems the Renault F1 Team used in grands prix during the early 2000s.
MADE IN DIEPPE, FRANCE
New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo is built in Dieppe, France. The factory has a human face, with teams of workers who are proud to belong and make great efforts to produce high-quality goods. And at its heart, the factory also has a competition department. That’s where the New Clio Cup racer is taking shape ahead of its track debut in 2013.
“The Alpine factory in Dieppe is primed to make sure New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo is well received in terms of its fine build quality. Apart from its role as a showcase for the New Clio range, this is a car ready to conquer international markets.”
Roger Ringot (Managing Director, Alpine factory, Dieppe)
BUILT WITH EXPERTISE AND PASSION IN DIEPPE
Constructed in 1969, the Dieppe factory has been the birthplace of many legendary cars. Every generation of Clio Renault Sport has been built here since 1991. The factory’s core business consists of assembling performance cars, the construction and sale of competition cars and the sale of motorsport spares (both from the factory and on events).
The Alpine factory’s flexibility and adaptability help it to manage low-volume production runs. With more than 300 staff and an area of 76,000m², including 36,900m² of covered buildings, Dieppe has produced more than 400,000 vehicles since 1969, including 81,500 Clio Renaultsport models across the generations.
Primed New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo shells are delivered from Flins to be painted in Dieppe. All body panels are painted on site (as opposed to about half, for the previous version). Five colours are available, including Sirius Yellow – a very popular choice that originated in this plant.
It takes about 26 hours to assemble a New Clio Renaultsport Turbo – longer than it does for mass-production models. It’s the result of meticulous preparation, but then this an upmarket model that is almost made to measure.
THE MOTORSPORT DIVISION: A STIMULUS FOR THE WHOLE FACTORY
With a staff of about 60, one fifth of the Dieppe workforce, the competition department is blessed with personnel who are as passionate as they are capable. With rare attention to detail, the team builds 100-150 competition cars per annum, a mixture of single-seaters and competition versions of production cars. Their output includes Mégane Trophy, Clio R3, Formula Renault 2.0 and New Clio Cup.
Within this department, a group of about 20 combines diverse skills whether they be fitters, welders, painters, electricians or mechanics. The faces have barely changed during the past 20 years, for this is a team united by its love of cars. Some of them have been here since the factory opened in 1969, which equates to 44 years of loyalty to the Alpine plant. That tells you everything you need to know about their attachment to both their work and the performance cars they produce.
A CAR FOR CONNOISSEURS
Clio Renaultsport has always appealed to motoring connoisseurs and, in particular, the purists who appreciate the finest performance cars and their handling. In its latest guise, Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo has the potential to keep these customers happy, as well as attract an even broader customer base.
CUSTOMERS WHO KNOW WHAT THEY WANT
To date, 90,000 sportyClios have found homes in 38 different countries. Even if not all buyers are technically ‘purists’, they have a common bond because they appreciate the level of attention lavished on their Clio Renaultsport. With the breadth of changes made to the New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo, Renaultsport expects to broaden its clientele in an increased range of markets.
In Europe, high-performance hatchback or saloon cars accounted for 50,500 sales last year (to end-October). Of those, high-performance B-segment cars represented 40 per cent of the total. Moreover, demand for small, high-performance saloons has shrunk at the same time as demand for greater versatility has increased. Restyled in 2009, Clio III Renaultsport has performed solidly in the market since launch in mid-2006. It accounts for almost 10 per cent of the sales in a very competitive sector.
Across the world, almost 30,000 Clio III Renaultsport models will have attracted customers who have a more radical, sport attitude than most. Today, New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo has added equipment that the market now demands: it is versatile, understated and user-friendly, but every bit as efficient as before. New Clio R.S. is easier to drive, but also more fun.
“New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo has a dual personality. Our goal was to design a true sports saloon to attract the most enthusiastic drivers, yet at the same time it also had to meet the needs of a different, more demanding clientele that craves comfort, adaptability and fuel-efficiency.”
Arnaud Barton (Product Manager, New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo)
THE PERFORMANCE CLIO: CREATION OF A GLORIOUS HISTORY
New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo builds on Renault’s sporting traditions and adds to a long line of Clios that have shone on road, track and special stage.
The sporting Clio’s success story can be traced back through renowned production models such as the 16-valve, Williams, Renaultsport and V6, plus competition cars like the Super 1600, R3 and Cup. With New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo, the adventure moves on to a fresh chapter.
REVERED BY CLUBS AND INTERNET FORUMS
Around the world there are hundreds of clubs dedicated to Renaultsport and its cars. There is also a very lively internet community. Renaultsport’s Facebook® page has more than 240,000 members and benefits from a very high hit rate.
Renault Sport Technologies is keen to enliven and strengthen these communities and has a number of pioneering initiatives, both on the web and through regional demonstration events – potent tools that strengthen the bond between the marque and its cars, customers and fans.
RENAULTSPORT’S ADDED SERVICES AND ATTENTION TO DETAIL INCLUDED AS STANDARD
For customers who want to share a particularly close relationship with their car, Renault Sport Technologies has tailored a series of services that you won’t find elsewhere from a major manufacturer that builds cars like this. As a general rule, Renault Sport Technologies adopts a specialist approach for each of its customers.
The strength of Renaultsport’s specialist dealer network
With more than 330 Renaultsport specialist dealers and service centres in 19 countries, customers with a motorsport passion are sure to be able to locate true professionals in their area. With their particular expertise in performance cars, these professionals are often themselves involved in motorsport and have a passionate belief in Renaultsport’s reputation and products.
Naturally, the whole of the Renault network is primed to sell and maintain New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo, – and will do so with the high service standards and rigour that are a Renault trademark.
Enthusiast Days
Open to all drivers who own sporting Renaults, Renault Sport Enthusiast Days are manna for aficionados... and others, too. There are opportunities to drive and receive coaching on the world’s most prestigious circuits or to visit Renault factories. Rather like New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo, programmes can be tailored to suit every customer’s individual desires.
“With its numerous technical innovations, New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo is fun – that much is immediately obvious. Irrespective of driving style, though, all types of customer will feel as much from behind the wheel. It’s up to them where they want to place the bar of their own expectations.”
Olivier Tschanhenz (Product Marketing Manager, New Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo)
