Renault Clio R.S. 200

Introduction

Clio was launched by the French automaker Renault in the year 1990. The fourth generation of this 4-door, 5-seater hatchback was introduced in 2012 with sportier looks and features. Clio has gone through a facelift along with additions in features and technology upgradation in its fourth generation. This Renault product has bagged the European Car of the Year award in the years 1991 and 2006 due to its striking features and appearance. This small car is capable of delivering big wonders when it comes to space, power and performance.

Engine, mileage & variants

Renault Clio is powered by a 1.6-litre Turbo R.S. petrol engine which delivers a maximum power of 147 kW at 6000 rpm and a maximum torque of 240 Nm at 1750 rpm. This power packed engine has an excellent acceleration and pick as it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/hr in just 6.7 seconds. The top speed achieved by this turbocharged engine is 230 km/hr. Coming to the mileage delivered by this engine, it sips 8.1 litre in urban areas and 5.1 litre in extra urban areas making for an appreciable combined mileage of 6.3 litre/100 km. The fuel tank of this hatchback can carry a maximum of 45 litres of petrol.

Exteriors

Renault Clio is a 4-door hatchback which comes with a glossy black upper radiator grille bar and an R.S badge right under the Renault sigil. To give a distinguished look to this hatchback, both the front door handles come with contrast black and the handles for rear door are located on the c-pillar. Special side sills, rear bumper skirt, body colored exterior front door handles and side moulding strips complete the appearance of this Renault. The rear spoiler and bold bodylines also make an additional statement to its sporty look. Clio's dimensions are slightly long for a hatchback with 4090 mm x 1732 mm 1432 mm (L x W x H) measurements with a wheelbase of 2589 mm ensuring better turning and more cabin space. Its 17-inch silver alloy wheels with 205/45 R17 tire dimensions give a confident drive.

Interiors

Clio comes with sporty and attractive interior to attract its buyers. The special Renault Sport leather seats have red top stitching and logo on its centre. The steering wheel also carries a sports leather covering with anodized red insert along with chrome outlining. Also, its power assisted steering wheel has got voice control button to aid the driver. Its aluminum door sill, pedal pads and foot rest, altogether provides for a good looking interior. This hatchback has a boot space of 300 litre which can be expanded to a maximum of 1146 litre with all its rear seat folded. Talking about the infotainment system embedded in this vehicle, Clio comes with a 7-inch touchscreen, a standard radio, Tom Tom navigation and hands-free phone system. Additionally Bluetooth, AUX and USB connectivity is provided for a fun filled drive. The Renault Bass Reflex audio system ensures complete entertainment inside the vehicle.

Safety, Braking and Miscellaneous

Clio equips various features to ensure the safety of its passengers on board. This hatch has front and chest side airbags for driver and first row passenger and the seat belts also come with seat belt reminders for all the passengers. Anti-Lock Braking System, Emergency Brake Assist, Anti-Slip Regulation and Electronic Stability Control make sure that the vehicle is stable and in control while cornering and running at high speed. This Renault product comes with ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on rear. McPherson strut with rectangular lower arm with anti-roll bar and hydraulic compression stop suspension at front and flexible axle along with programmed deflection and spiral springs suspension at rear are employed for a comfortable and smooth ride.

Verdict

Renault Clio, is a sporty looking hatchback and might attract the youngsters but the availability of a single engine variant restricts its market.