Renault Clio RS200 Turbo details have been unveiled
As one might’ve thought, the new Renault Clio RS200 Turbo will be quicker, lighter and also more fuel efficient than the older model.
The French automaker has confirmed the technical specs of the new city-sized hot-hatch just before its international launch next month.
According to the numbers, the new 1.6-litre Renault Clio RS200 Turbo will go from 0 to 100km/h in 6.7 seconds, a full two-tenths of a second sooner than the current generation naturally aspirated 2.0-litre model.
The new and smaller forced-induction four-cylinder engine delivers 25Nm more torque than the current engine does, and at its peak of 240Nm output is can produce a rather impressive rev range: 1750-5500rpm.
The new Clio RS200 Turbo will also be lighter by 36kg than the lightest version of its predecessor. This is even more impressive and interesting since the new model will only be available in a five-door and six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission versions, which is in itself a major philosophy shift from the traditional three-door/manual transmission that the Renaultsport Clios have had.
Believe it or not but fuel consumption has also been cut by about a quarter, down to 6.3 litres per 100km according to testing conducted in Europe.
It should also be noted that the Clio RS200 Turbo will also be the first production car that will feature hydraulic compression stops in its shock absorbers – a technology usually found in rally cars. The French carmaker says that this will ensure road surface imperfections are better absorbed.
They also say that this will be the first ‘sub-supercar’ that will feature a transmission with a multi-change downshift function, making it capable of dropping several gears at once under braking.
The model will come with three drive modes – Normal, Sport and Race – and all of them will be accessible via the car’s RS Drive button which acts by modifying the engine and transmission mapping, power steering feel as well as modifying the intervention of the stability and traction control systems.
The vehicle sounds really good, we’ll see how it does once it’s on the market for a bit.
