Renault Clio RS 200 (2013)

The Dark Metal gear shift paddles are fixed behind the steering wheel, while the grey instrument backgrounds are specific to Clio RS 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 Renault Sport models, the bucket seats come with additional lateral support in order to provide the high level of seating comfort and stability expected of Clio RS They can also be upholstered in black leather with visible red stitching.

The black lacquer centre console houses the multimedia unit which are finished with a chrome surround.

A COMFORTABLE, EVERYDAY DRIVE THAT COULD BE QUITE HARD TO CATCH

New Renault Clio RS 200 EDC 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. New Clio RS 200 EDC 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. Unbeatable against the stopwatch, New Clio RS 200 EDC generates a wide range of emotions. In any situation, its adaptability enables it to satisfy the whims of every driver... irrespective of temperament. It has a multi-faceted sporting personality developed by Renault Sport Technologies.

DOWNSIZED TURBO ENGINE, EDC TRANSMISSION, STEERING WHEEL PADDLES

The combinatin of the 1.6 turbocharged petrol engine and twin-clutch six-speed gearbox is unique to New Clio RS 200 EDC. 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 Renault Sport Technologies. Apart from the specific set-up work undertaken for New Renault Clio RS, the engine benefits from detailed fine-tuning of the air inlet, distributor, throttle and turbo.

EXPLOSIVE PERFORMANCE

For all New Clio RS 200 EDC's hallmark versatility, it retains startling performance when judged against the stopwatch: the 0-100kph 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 230kph (143mph): New Renault Clio RS 200 EDC is a true Renault Sport, but lurks within a very civilised Clio.

In less extreme circumstances, New Clio RS 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 RS 200 EDC is ready to exploit the full range of its sporting potential in line with the individual capabilities of its driver.

A CHASSIS DEVELOPED BY THE EXPERTS OF RENAULT SPORT

At the heart of Renault Sport's expertise, engineers have focused on the chassis performance. Their goal was to improve the comfort, handling, road holding and braking expected of a Renault Sport model.

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 R.S.... and 60 per cent more so than that on New Clio. Brake discs measure 260mm.

HYDRAULIC COMPRESSION CONTROL

Irrespective of conditions, New Clio RS 200 EDC 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 RS 200 EDC embraces an innovation that Renault Sport has developed for about 15 years in rallying and is now ready for showroom models.

R.S. DIFF: THE ELECTRONIC DIFFERENTIAL BY RENAULT SPORT TECHNOLOGIES

Patented by Renault Sport Technologies, the electronic differential significantly improves New Clio RS 200 EDC'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 Renault Sport models, the New Renault Clio RS EDC is available with a choice of two chassis. The optional Cup version is tailored for even greater sporting 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 ENJOYMENT

As two cars in one, New Clio RS 200 EDC boasts a package of unprecedented innovations for its segment. For everyday use, in 'Normal' mode, New Clio RS delivers all the qualities expected of a Clio, namely a quiet 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' SPORTS 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 RS 200 EDC's performance characteristics as a function of the driver's wishes, needs or usage. As a result, New Clio RS 200 EDC 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, which is unprecedented equipment for a hot hatch, New Clio RS 200 EDC 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 RS 200 EDC 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 gear shift 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 New Clio RS 200 EDC's 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 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.

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.

Finally, it is possible to prepare track sessions by saving track layouts onto the USB stick. Renault Sport proposes a number of pre-saved circuit layouts, while the users' community can pool the layouts produced by other users to produce a shared circuit data base.

R.S. SOUND PIPE AVAILABLE FOR Clio RS

Renault Sport was not content to just fine-tune the signature exhaust sound of New Clio RS It believes that a performance car should produce a satisfying sound inside the car, so the air intake noise of the car is amplified mechanically by a membrane and transmitted via a pipe to the cabin. The system allows occupants to enjoy New Clio RS's 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 RS (Alpine A110, R8 Gordini and Nissan GT-R).

A sound-management algorithm takes into account the engine speed, accelerator pedal position and travelling 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: 6.3 LITRES/100KM

There is more to New Renaukt Clio RS 200 EDC than just driving pleasure and cutting-edge performance. With an average-cycle fuel consumption of 6.3 litres/100km, it sets new standards in terms of economy and environmental sensitivity. As for comfort, a priority in all circumstances, New Clio RS 200 EDC scotches the theory that sharp handling always equates to an uncomfortably firm ride. It fulfils its rich promise with efficiency in every domain.

A 2-LITRE GAIN IN TERMS OF ECONOMY

New Clio RS 200 EDC uses just 6.3 litres of unleaded petrol per 100km, equivalent to CO2 emissions of only 144g per kilometre. Compared with the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre engine under the bonnet of Clio III R.S., this represents a saving of almost 25 per cent (approximately 2 litres/100km and 46g/km).

SURPRISINGLY COMFORTABLE

Whether you're talking seats or suspension, New Clio RS 200 EDC attains levels of comfort far higher than you'd expect from a car of such sporting temperament.

TOP-OF-THE-RANGE SPECIFICATION

New Clio RS 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, touch-screen satellite navigation (R-Link or MediaNav), hands-free kit, Radio Bluetooth®, USB socket, Bass Reflex speaker system, electronic cruise control with speed limiter, automatic windscreen wipers, climate control (automatic climate control optional),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.

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 RS 200 EDC 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.

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.

A 1.6-litre turbo engine

A foretaste 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 RS 200 EDC.

A wing/diffuser set-up that improves the compromise between drag and lift

In this domain, too, New Clio RS 200 EDC 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 prolonged deployment of a steering wheel paddle.

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...

New Clio RS 200 EDC's Launch Control was inspired by the automatic starting systems the Renault F1 team used in grands prix during the early 2000s.