Renault Clio RS Review: Where Has The Magic Gone?
Pros
Cons
How fast is it?
Newsflash: the new Renault Clio RS is fast. But we already knew it would be, even though it's now running a 1.6-litre engine. Thanks to turbocharging, the Clio RS produces 197bhp and 177lb ft of torque. These numbers will propel the RS to 62mph in 6.7sec and on to a top speed of 143mph. Exciting stuff, then.
Is it sexy?
Looks are purely subjective, but whichever side of the fence you choose to sit on, sexy the RS is not. The new five-door car does, however, look purposeful and we like the look of the Clio's profile. The front, not so much; the lights are massive and the Renault badge looks more 'out there' than Taylor Swift's promiscuous lifestyle. As for the rear-end, we're fans of the big diffuser and slender lights.
What’s it like to drive?
On our mediocre test route (that's putting it nicely) and accompanied by a driving instructor (off-putting), one thing was clear; the new Clio RS has lost its magic. OK, it's fast, but it no longer feels exciting or particularly involving.
The change from the previous car's screaming 2.0-litre to 1.6, coupled with the decision to transfer the Clio's power to the front wheels via a six-speed dual-clutch automatic 'box detracts from the driving experience. Gear changes are sluggish compared with the imperceptibly smooth VAG units, which frustrates.
That said, the steering is precise and nicely weighted (especially in Sport mode), and ride comfort is decent.
How about the inside?
For a Clio RS, the inside's nicely appointed with a gloss black centre console, easy-to-use touchscreen and great seats. The gear paddles are pretty clumsy-looking, though.
Will my mates rate it?
They'll rate the car, yes. But only if they don't know what preceded the new RS; the addition of two doors dulls the new car's cool factor and you'll never be able to get away from the fact that, like your mum, you drive an automatic...
If your mates do hate, however, keep them entertained with the Clio's sound synthesiser that can transform the car's (already decent) engine note into all manner of things, including a Nissan GT-R.
Can I afford it?
Prices for the Clio RS start from £18,995. Considering Renaultsport has evolved to producing a car that everyone can now buy, we can't recommend you splash the cash here. Our advice? Save yourself £2k and head down to your nearest Ford dealer immediately - the sublime Ford Fiesta ST is now the best small hot hatch money can buy.
Show me 3 used alternatives
The Clio 172 is a lightweight, no-nonsense, leg-cocking proper hot hatch. Just £1500 bags you a facelifted 2003 Cup model (0-60mph in 6.9sec, 138mph top speed) with around 100k miles. Do it, but only after you've read all you need to about the 172.
It's not particularly fast on paper, but the Swift Sport feels properly rapid when you're up to speed. The Sport offers pin-sharp steering and non-existent body roll. A pitiful £3795 gets you behind the wheel of a 2007 car with average miles. Bargain.
If you've got a spare £10k burning a whole in your back pocket, you can bag yourself a 2011 Fabia vRS. Its 1.4-litre turbocharged unit produces a healthy 180bhp for 0-62mph in just 7.3sec. Go for Skoda's bangin' green colour for extra kudos.
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