Renault Clio V6 Renault Sport
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Renault Clio V6 Renault Sport | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Renault Sport |
| Also called | Renault Clio V6 |
| Production | 2001-2005 |
| Predecessor | Renault 5 Turbo II |
| Class | Hot hatch |
| Body style | 2-door hatchback |
| Layout | MR layout |
| Engine | 2946 cc V6 24v |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Length | 3830 mm |
| Height | 1420 mm |
| Curb weight | 1100 kg |
| Fuel capacity | 55 L |
| Related | Renault Clio |
| Similar | Alfa Romeo 147 GTA Audi S3 BMW M1 Ford Focus RS SEAT León Cupra Volkswagen Golf R32 |
The Renault Clio V6 Renault Sport is a hot hatch designed and built by French automaker Renault.
It was launched in 2001 as a supersport version of the Renault Clio. The Clio V6 is approaching cult status as production of these rare and beautiful cars has now ceased. The long-term reviews in Evo magazine were enthusiatic for both the Phase 1 and Phase 2 versions, and Top Gear's Jeremy Clarkson commented "In my perfect ten car garage I would definitely have one of these – no question".
The Clio V6 Phase 1 was based on the Clio Mk II, though it shares very little by way of parts with that car. The 3.0 V6 engine, sourced from the Renault Laguna was upgraded to around 230 bhp and placed in the middle of the vehicle where the more ordinary Clios have rear seats - making this car a two-seater. The Clio V6 Phase 1 was facelifted in 2003 to resemble the Clio Mk III, and was extensively reworked following criticisms of the original Clio V6's handling (especially in the wet). The new vehicle had an upgraded 255 bhp V6, but also much more tractable and predictable handling. According to Top Gear television show, the Clio V6 Phase 2 has similar performance to an Aston Martin Vantage.
In order to accommodate the radical change from front-engine, front-wheel drive hatchback to mid-engine, rear-wheel drive two-seater quasi-coupé, the car had to be extensively reworked structurally, leading to the Phase 1 version being some 300 kg (660 lb) heavier than the sportiest "regular" Clio, the 172 Cup. Due to this, even though the V6 model had significantly more power, it was not markedly faster than the 172 Cup - accelerating to 60 mph in 6.2 s compared to the Cup's 6.7 s - though its maximum speed was more significantly higher (146 mph compared to 138 mph). The Clio V6 Phase 2 gained even more weight but offset it with even more power resulting in a reduced 0-60 mph run at 5.6 s and a 153 mph top speed.
The Clio V6 was until 2006 the most powerful serial produced hatchback in the world with 255 bhp, exceeding the Ford Focus RS (225 bhp), the Alfa Romeo 147 GTA (250 bhp) and the SEAT León Cupra R (225 bhp), and only surpassed by the BMW 130i with 265 bhp and Audi S3 with 260 bhp.
Though based on a utilitarian hatchback, the Clio V6 is not a practical family car. The 24mpg average leads to an empty fuel tank in just over 300 miles. The loss of the back seats AND most of the boot space, due to the engine placement, results in a severe restriction in luggage space - there is only a small space in the front where the engine used to be, suitable for a holdall or week-end groceries, a small but useful netted area behind the seats plus a small stash area under the tailgate. The enhanced steering makes tight manoeuvring a little challenging but multi-story carparks are still negotiable. The Clio V6 has a turning circle of around 13 m (43 ft) - around three car lengths - turning what might normally be a three-point turn into a four-point turn. Despite these limitations, the Clio V6 is easy to live with on a day to day basis. The mechanicals are tough and reliable. Many owners upgrade the exhaust for slightly more power and a ricier sound. Standard equipment includes rain sensing windscreen wipers, automatic headlights, air conditioning, and six speakers and CD changer.
The last Clio V6 retailed for a recommended £ 27,125 in the United Kingdom, until it was withdrawn from sale coinciding with a facelift for the Clio range. As of yet there is no news on a new Clio V6 model.
[edit] Engines
- Phase 1: 2998 cc V6 petrol, 24 valves, 230 bhp (185 kW)
- Phase 2: 2998 cc V6 petrol, 24 valves, 255 bhp (195 kW)
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