The all-new Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo is far feistier than the car 'Nicole and Papa' had
in those adverts. In fact, the version revealed at the Paris Motor Show is so potent I worry
Papa's hair will fall out. Why? Because its 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine produces
200bhp at 6,000rpm, and 240Nm of torque from 1,750rpm to 5,600 rpm. 25Nm more than
its predecessor, then. We therefore suspect – although it has not been confirmed – that it
hits 62mph in less than 7 seconds and is capable of 140mph. Nicole! Also, its monstrous
power is sent to the front wheels via six-speed duel-clutch transmission. This operates
via steering wheel paddles and has three modes to influence its responsiveness. The
fastest 'Race' allows Nicole to change gear in only 0.15 seconds. Oh....
could her hair fall
out too?
The all-new Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo is equipped with two chassis options: 'sport'
and 'cup'. The former balances sporty driving with on-road comfort, the latter is optimised
for the track. It is therefore 15% stiffer and 5mm lower than its sibling. Furthermore, Nicole
and Papa can play with the 'RS Drive' button. This flicks between three modes that make
the engine, suspension, electronic stability control, steering, and throttle response either
more or less sporty. Options are 'oh', 'wow', and 'where is my hair?' All this is wrapped-up
in a car with a high equipment specification. Highlights include the touch-screen sat-nav,
hands-free key card, and the Bluetooth/USB radio. Options include parking sensors with a
rear camera and climate control. Great stuff, but where can Nicola and Papa buy toupees?
By Stephen Turvil
Fri, 05 Oct 2012
Richard H Commented: