In addition to the smaller Wind roadster, Renault is showing off another droptop at this year’s Geneva Motor Show – the Megane Coupe-Cabriolet. Much larger than the Wind, the Megane CC is poised to compete with the likes of the Volkswagen Eos or Audi A5 convertibles. And while the design isn’t nearly as svelte as the Audi, it’s a bit more attractive than the often-overlooked Eos.

As is the trend these days, the Megane uses a folding hardtop configuration with a glass roof so drivers can let the sun shine in even when the lid is closed. From there, Renault is offering a total of seven powertrain configurations, encompassing both gas- and diesel-powered mills, as well as dual-clutch, manual and continuously variable transmissions. The new Megane CC will hit European dealerships this spring and you’ll never see it in the U.S, so check it in both galleries below.

[Source:Autoblog]

It’s amazing what a little paint and a few stickers can do for a small car. To illustrate that point, take a gander at the special Gordini edition Renault Clio and Twingo in the gallery below. Granted, the improvements reach much deeper than just those stickers, but the matte blue paint, white accents and white decals give these little runabouts a purposeful look and signal to the world that they are the top-of-the-performance-heap Gordini editions.

For those who need a refresher, Gordini is the name of a legendary Renault racing engineer. Amédée Gordini brought Renault some rally racing glory in the mid-’60s with the iconic R8 Gordini. Renault recently revived the name, reestablishing it as the top rung trim level on its already racy Renault Sport (R.S.) editions. Mechanically similar to their R.S. counterparts, they are mainly distinguished by retro styling touches (like the classic French racing blue paint scheme with white stripes) and an extra dose of exclusivity. Plus, they just look badass.

The first product in the new range, the Twingo Gordini R.S. had already debuted last November, but here at the Geneva Motor Show, the company unveiled their Gordini edition Clio as well. We have galleries of both cars for you below, the Mini-sized Twingo and the slightly larger Clio. Both cars have the performance upgrades found on R.S. models, with larger wheels, Brembo brakes, Conti SportContact3 tires, diffusers, heat extractors and that great livery. Check out the little “G” confetti in the stripes – classic.

[Source:Autoblog]

Renault has certainly been keeping busy. In addition to restructuring its F1 team to come back with a fresh design for 2010, the French automaker has recently unveiled an innovative new Megane coupe-convertible, the equally interesting Wind roadster and a slew of new panel vans. All the while, Renault is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its bread-and-butter model, the Clio.

Over the years, Renault has sold a staggering 10 million units of the Clio, putting it on par with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Toyota Camry as the 20th top-selling car of all time, but in a shorter timeframe. To kick off the festivities, Renault has released special edition versions of the Clio hatchback (both three- and five-door configurations), Clio wagon and Clio RS hot hatch.

All the 20th anniversary Clios get a mouthful of black trim and, of course, the requisite special badging. The hatch and wagon can be ordered in a variety of color combinations, while the RS special comes exclusively in two-tone white and black, complimented by 17-inch BeBop wheels. Equipment levels depend on the market, with orders already taken in France ahead of other European markets starting next month. Pricing starts at €14,350 (just shy of twenty grand in Benjamins), with the Clio RS 20th commanding €24,700 (about $34k USD). Full details can be found in the press release after the jump, with high-resolution images in the gallery below.

PRESS RELEASE

20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS FOR CLIO

The Clio saga continues!

For 20 years, Clio has proudly lived up to its celebrated slogan: Elle a Tout d’une Grande (The Small Car with Big Car Attributes). To date, it has won over more than 10 million customers worldwide thanks to a unique package of comfort, versatility and safety performance that is more readily associated with models from the next segment up. In addition to being the only model ever to secure two Car of the Year awards, Clio has set new standards for the compact car segment over the years. It has always been at the leading edge on the safety front, too, and was the first B-segment model to secure a four-star EuroNCAP crash test rating, and then to achieve five-star status. Last but no least, its exacting build quality has seen it emerge as one of the most dependable cars in its segment.

To celebrate Clio’s 20th anniversary, Renault has decided to release special, exclusive ‘20th’ limited edition versions of:

* three- and five-door Clio and Clio Estate,
* Clio Renault Sport.

These limited edition versions feature ‘20th’ badging on the B pillars, and a gloss black finish for the front bumper moulding, exterior mirrors. A hallmark of the ‘20th’ limited edition version of Clio Renault Sport will be its exclusive white and black two-tone colour scheme. Meanwhile, the plushly-appointed cabin comes with visible dashboard stitching and an anthracite grey painted finish for the centre console and air vents, plus ‘20th’-badged door sills.

These limited edition versions are extensively equipped, too. Depending on market, Clio ‘20th’ is available with Carminat TomTom® navigation, manual or automatic climate control, extra-tinted rear glass, cruise control with speed limiter, and a 80W radio-CD with MP3 playback, with Bluetooth® and Plug & Music connectivity.

Clio ‘20th’ and Clio Renault Sport ‘20th’ both go on sale in March in Europe. In France, order books open on February 9, with prices starting at €14,350 for Clio ‘20th’. Clio R.S. ‘20th’ will cost €24,700.

At the same time, the structure of the Clio range has been revised, with an appreciable equipment upgrade in France (see appendix).

‘20th’ LIMITED EDITION VERSIONS TO CELEBRATE CLIO’S 20th ANNIVERSARY

Clio has vitalized the B segment since 1990

Like the 4CV and Renault 5 before it, Renault Clio has stood out as a landmark model since 1990. In keeping with its original advertising slogan, Elle a Tout d’une Grande (The Small Car with Big Car Attributes), it has served as a driving force in its class, with each successive generation setting new standards in the B segment.

In the space of 20 years, it has won over more than 10 million customers in more than 100 countries thanks to a styling, comfort, versatility, safety and equipment package worthy of cars from the next segment up. Indeed, it is the only model to date to have claimed the Car of the Year award on two separate occasions: in 1991 initially – shortly after the launch of Clio I – and then a second time in 2006, with Clio III. As a pioneer in the field of safety, too, it broke new ground by becoming the first car in its class to earn a four-star EuroNCAP crash-test rating, in 2000. Then, in 2005, it went on to become the first to achieve five-star status. Last but not least, its exacting build quality has made it one of the most dependable cars in its segment.

To mark Clio’s 20-year long career as an international best seller, Renault has decided to introduce exclusive ‘20th’ limited edition versions of three- and five-door Clio, Clio Estate and Clio Renault Sport.

1 – Renault Clio ‘20th’
The ‘20th’ limited edition versions of Renault Clio are immediately recognizable by specific ‘20th’ badging on their B pillars, as well as the gloss black finish of their front bumper mouldings, exterior mirrors and side protective moulding end-pieces2 which contrast with the body colour exterior door handles.

Inside the cabin, the dashboard features visible stitching, plus anthracite grey air vents and centre console, in addition to ‘20th’ badging on the front door sills. Based on the Dynamique equipment level, the ‘20th’ limited edition versions of Renault Clio (depending on country) are also equipped with manual or automatic climate control, cruise control with speed limiter and an 80W Radiosat-CD with MP3 playback, plus Bluetooth® and Plug & Music connectivity. The latter permits phone calls to be made or taken in total safety, while portable music devices can be connected via the jack or USB socket. The Bluetooth® audio-streaming function enables MP3-format music stored on mobile phones to be played. The optional Carminat TomTom® navigation system features IQ Routes™ technology and Advanced Lane Guidance which take day-by-day traffic pattern statistics into account when computing routes.

The ‘20th’ limited edition versions of Clio are available in a choice of six body colours:

* Non-metallic: Glacier White.
* Metallic: Grey Blue, Pearlescent Black, Platine Grey, Dyna Red, Cassiopée Grey.

The engines available for Clio “20th” are the same as those which feature of the Dynamique Version, these limited edition versions to comply with the three criteria necessary to qualify for the Renault eco² signature. In France, the versions powered by the dCi 70 and dCi 85 engines qualify for the state’s €500 eco-bonus subsidy.

The ‘20th’ limited edition versions of three- and five-door Clio and Clio Estate are due to go on sale in March in Europe (except Portugal). In France, order books will open on February 9, and prices will start from €14,350, representing a saving to the customer of four per cent.

2 – Renault Clio R.S. ‘20th’
The Clio Renault Sport line-up, too, has been treated to a special ‘20th’ limited edition version. Its bodywork features an exclusive two-tone livery, with a black roof, upper hatch rail and lip spoiler contrasting with the rest of the body’s brand new Pearlescent Givre finish.

The front stands out through the bumper’s gloss black moulding and anthracite exterior mirrors which echo the gloss black rear diffuser and anthracite splitter. The ‘20th’ limited edition version of Renault Clio R.S. sits on 17-inch Be Bop diamond-effect alloy wheels. ‘20th’ badging can be seen on the door pillars, while the plushly appointed interior features visible dashboard stitching, satin-finish chrome air vents, specific silver grey cloth upholstery and front carpet mats.

Clio R.S. ‘20th’ is equipped with different equipment in different markets. The list of comfort-enhancing features includes electrically folding exterior mirrors, one-touch electric windows and an 80W radio-CD with MP3 playback, and Bluetooth® and Plug & Music connectivity. On the safety front, Clio R.S. ‘20th’ comes with cruise control and speed limiter, additional cornering lights and curtain airbags.

Clio Renault Sport ‘20th’ will go on sale in its principal European markets in March. In France, order books will open on February 9. Clio Renault Sport ‘20th’ will cost €24,700.

[Source:Autoblog]

Renault looks set to be the next automaker to bail out of Formula 1, and it appears that there are two serious bidders in line to take over the operation. Renault will hold a special board meeting this week to decide on the racing team’s fate, and it looks like it may go ahead and just line up a sale right away, instead of announcing a shutdown and then trying work out a sale as Honda and BMW did.

AutoCar reports that Prodrive, which has been trying to break into F1 for several years, may have the inside line on the French outfit. The other primary bidder is Genil Capital, a Luxembourg-based investment fund. The financial group would likely retain the Renault name for the team, while Prodrive would probably run under its own banner. If Prodrive wins out, Renault would remain only as an F1 engine supplier.

[Source:Autoblog]

Years ago, on a post-collegiate backpacking trip through Europe, we became strangely obsessed with the Renault Twingo. Going so far as to compose red vin induced Weird Al style poems, “Twingo, Twingo little car, how I wonder why you are.” Today, we’re having a slightly different reaction to this diminutive Renault.

Mostly because out back you’ll find a 3.5-liter Range Rover sourced V8 kicking out 180 horses. That’s right folks — it’s a Twingo with a mid-mounted V8. They call it the Twingo Trophy. Obviously, if you drop a V8 into the back of a runt like the Twingo — even a small V8 — you’ve got to perform some fairly serious mods. And French motorcycle builder Lazareth did just that, creating a modern day Renault R5. Albeit one with inboard shocks.

If you look at the pictures, you’ll notice both the front and rear tracks got widened, comically so out back. The reason for the latter is a special rear tubular subframe Lazareth had to shoe horn in to deal with all the extra weight and power now suddenly present behind the front seats. They also put some goofy-sized 320 Yokohama slicks on the 18-inch rear wheels. Making the Twingo Trophy all the more ridiculous. But in a good way. We think. How much? About $100,000 give or take. A small price to pay for such a… distinctive Twingo. Update: There’s a good chance the V8 makes much more than 180 ponies, especially judging by those wrapped headers…

[Source:Car Scoop]

Another race, another week of wondering whether the other Formula 1 teams would make enough progress to catch Brawn GP. Saturday’s qualifying session for the Monaco Grand Prix looked pretty familiar, save for a sorely missed flash of red on the front row. This week’s top three? Not surprisingly, Brawn’s Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello bracketing Ferrari’s former champion, Kimi Raikkonen. Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel was fourth, with last year’s runner-up, Felipe Massa fifth in the other Ferrari. Massa had shown the updated F60’s potential by qualifying fourth last time out in Spain, but it was refreshing to see both Ferraris in the front three rows for a change. Would KERS help Kimi grab the lead going into turn one? Would Brawn show any chinks in its previously impervious armor? Would Vettel somehow get through to bring Red Bull its second victory of the season? Follow the jump to find out.

After returning to Europe last week, Formula 1 made its annual stop in Monte Carlo this weekend for the Monaco Grand Prix. The crown jewel on the F1 calendar, Monaco is the series’ most prestigious event, attracting a worldwide who’s who to the stands and harbor. A notoriously difficult track for passing, this street course is very unforgiving. Because the overtaking opportunities are few, drivers tend to make dramatic passing attempts with often catastrophic results. If they can’t pull off the pass, the race comes down to starting position and pit strategy for the most part. That, and getting a good launch at the green flag.

While some thought Kimi might stand a chance at getting ahead of Button into the first turn, he ended up doing well to hold onto third as not only Rubens slipped past, but Vettel gave it a go too before Kimi managed to close the door on him. Running their first stints on the super-softs, the Brawns and Vettel should have been about even, but far too soon Vettel’s Red Bull didn’t seem to be making the most of those tires anymore. In less than 7 laps he was some three seconds off the pace.

Massa, Nico Rosberg and Heikki Kovalainen were all over him but couldn’t seem to get by. Massa was pushing hard and eventually went a bit too far, cutting a chicane that would have resulted in a penalty if he hadn’t allowed Vettel back through immediately. As Massa slowed to let Sebastien through, Rosberg seized the opportunity to shoot for daylight and slipped inside the Ferrari, too.

Rosberg kept charging, and by lap 10, he got past Vettel as well. Massa and Kovalainen got through soon after as Vettel’s tires were shot. He was forced to pit, lest he fall further back through the running order. After getting fresh rubber, he began working to make up lost ground. Unfortunately, he pushed too hard and found the barriers at Sainte Devote.

That was about the time that the Brawns started to slow, as well. Button did a bit better at dealing with the increasingly poor handling of his car, however, and pulled away from his teammate. When the first stops were over, Jenson was some 15 seconds clear of Rubens. As slow as Rubens had been lapping, neither Ferrari managed to get past Barrichello during that first round of stops, but not for lack of trying.

Once they had switched to the harder tires, Barrichello managed to keep the gap between the Brawn cars pretty steady, but slowly growing over the rest of the field. Ferrari was now on the super-softs, and after a few laps started falling further behind the championship leaders. Despite slowing quite a bit at the end, the Scuderia still managed to keep ahead of the hard-charging Webber, who was by then having tire problems of his own. So it was another Brawn 1-2 in Monaco, with Ferrari an inspiring 3-4, and Webber in fifth.

Rosberg and Renault’s Fernando Alonso managed to come home sixth and seventh, having gambled a bit on short middle stints with the soft tires. McLaren almost snagged seventh, but Kovalainen spun into the barriers at the Swimming Pool on lap 52.

Teammate and defending champion Lewis Hamilton wasn’t able to make up too much ground, having started at the back of the field following an early spin in qualifying. He finished 12th, giving McLaren another disappointing finish in what had been hoped to be one of their best races this year. Jenson probably got a good look at Hamilton’s Monaco-special, diamond-encrusted helmet as he once again lapped his countrymate late in the race.

Toro Rosso’s Sebastien Bourdais and Force India’s Giancarlo Fisichella went for one stop strategies, with Sebastien edging Fisi for the final point. To be honest, Force India had to be thrilled with ninth.

Had he not botched Mirabeau on the penultimate lap, Kazuki Nakajima would have snagged a top ten for Williams, instead handing it to Toyota’s Timo Glock. Nick Heidfeld and Jarno Trulli bracketed Hamilton in 11th and 13th places respectively. Sutil got 14th with Nakajima was credited with 15th.

BMW’s Robert Kubica dropped out after just 31 laps. That was still 20 laps better than Toro Rosso’s Sebastien Buemi who ended the day for himself and Nelson Piquet Jr. when he ran up the rear of the Renault at Sainte Devote on lap 12.

The most exciting part of the race was probably the cut chicane by Massa or possibly when he was warned about cutting it again later in the race while running solo, trying to catch the Brawns. Kimi too. Our favorite moment, though, had to be when Button parked at parc ferme following the checkers, rather than at the podium, on the other side of the track. He leaped out and jogged half way around the course to accept his trophy. Yep, he jogged over a mile, after winning a 78-lap F1 race on a challenging street circuit. The show off.

Button now has 51 points in the drivers’ championship, Barrichello 35, Vettel 23, and Webber 19.5. In the constructor’s race, Brawn GP has as many points at 86 as the next three competitors combined. The good news for fans of the Old Guard is that McLaren and Ferrari appear to be very close to eclipsing second-best Red Bull, and they have their sights set on the newcomers. Next up: The Turkish GP on June 7.

[Source:Autoblog]

200. That’s a mighty big number for such a tiny car, but it’s the horsepower figure that Renaultsport’s latest hot hatch packs beneath its bonnet. And while it may be only three measley horses more than the 197 version on which it’s based and replaces, Renault’s performance and motorsport division has worked to improve the aerodynamics and cut weight to make each one count more.
Complimenting the mid-cycle revised styling of the entire Clio range, the Clio RS 200 and 200 Cup benefit from Renault’s Formula One program, with which the French automaker attributes the aerodynamic expertise implemented on its latest hot hatch. Air passes over the front splitter to feed the the revised 200-hp, 2.0-liter 16-valve four-cylinder engine, but it also goes underneath to the flat rear bottom and exits the fully functional rear diffuser. The design also pushes air around the wider front fenders, past the side vents and around the widened track to give the new Clio RS its performance edge. The aerodynamic enhancements gives the car an even meaner look, while customers can choose from a wider variety of look-at-me colors, contrasting with either black or anthracite-finish trim.

Inside it’s all business: the compact steering wheel has perforated leather trim with a yellow strip to show when it’s centered, and Recaro racing buckets are available along with leather upholstery. Unfortunately the car isn’t available Stateside, but across the pond the new Clio Renaultsport 200 starts selling next month at £16,570, while hardcore enthusiasts can save a bit and get the even more focused, stripped-down Cup version for £15,750. Follow the jump for all the details in the press release, and check out the images in the gallery below.

PRESS RELEASE

New Clio Renault Sport the most efficient hot hatch of its category

* Clio Renaultsport launched in two versions: Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup and Clio Renaultsport 200
* New, more aggressive design with F1-style frontal aerodynamics, new alloy wheels and rear diffuser
* Independent steering axis front suspension with revised suspension and steering settings for the standard and Cup chassis
* More powerful engine with improved low-down torque, economy and emissions
* Best power-to-weight ratio in its class (166hp per tonne)
* Extensive personalisation choices with interior and exterior colour options available through the Renault i.d. programme
* UK launch 15th May with first deliveries from end of June
* Priced from £15,750 on the road

Since 2000, the successive variants of Clio Renaultsport have resulted in it becoming the most popular hot hatch of its class, with over 70,000 worldwide sales. The Renaultsport version of the brand’s best-selling model has been unanimously praised by enthusiastic owners as one of the market’s best hot hatches, and also one of the most fun to drive. The challenge faced by the engineers from Renault Sport Technologies was to build on the existing qualities of Clio Renaultsport 197 and take its inherent strengths and dynamism to a new level.

New exterior design

Clio Renaultsport 200’s performance credentials are evident in its exterior design. Its styling includes aerodynamic features which take their inspiration from the world of Formula 1:

* an aerodynamic blade built into the front bumper
* front wing air-extractors and a rear diffuser, two technologies which form a package that is unique in the hot hatch market.

A powerful stance
As with the Clio Renaultsport 197, compared to the standard Clio, the wings are 30.5mm wider to accommodate the wider front and rear tracks which have been extended by 48mm and 50mm respectively. The more aggressive frontal styling incorporates a new, generously-sized, low-positioned air intake, designed to feed cooling air to the normally-aspirated 200hp 2.0 16V engine.

The sills, extractors and wider front and rear wings all highlight the performance credentials of Clio Renaultsport 200 which features Renaultsport’s new styling cues in the form of the Renault i.d. Design Pack: a two-tone colour scheme based on a choice of Gloss Black or Anthracite finish for the front bumper centre section and blade, door mirror housings and rear diffuser. The diffuser now incorporates more visible twin exhaust tailpipes. A new design of alloy wheel completes the revised appearance.

Clio Renaultsport 200 sees the introduction of a brand new, exclusive Alien Green pearlescent paint finish. The pearlescent Liquid Yellow returns to Clio Renaultsport 200 after only being available previously on the limited-edition Clio Renaultsport 197 F1 Team R27. Mercury also becomes available for the first time joining the Glacier White, Ultra Red, Racing Blue and the metallic Albi Blue, Nimbus and Deep Black.

Aerodynamics derived from Formula 1 technology
Clio Renaultsport 200’s aerodynamics include a new frontal blade, front-wing air-extractors and a rear air diffuser, a development which is unique for this segment. Thanks to these features which take their inspiration from Formula 1, Clio Renaultsport 200’s aerodynamic drag has been cut by 0.02 compared with that of its predecessor to 0.753.

The extractors visible on the front wings contribute to the car’s aerodynamic performance by neutralising the turbulence produced by the wider wings and play a part in improving the model’s CdA. They also facilitate the extraction of hot air from underneath the bonnet, while the vents are angled to channel airflow along the sides of the car for enhanced performance.

Clio Renaultsport 200 is also equipped with an air diffuser, an aerodynamic feature normally only found on high-end sporting cars. Air passing underneath the vehicle is channelled via the flat bottom to the diffuser where it accelerates before being expelled at a higher speed. Combined with the shape of the diffuser, this creates a zone of depression under the car, sucking the chassis to the ground. Compared with a conventional wing, diffusers generate significant downforce without resisting forward movement. On a track, at 80mph, lift is reduced by almost 40kg. The diffuser is designed to function in association with the rear flat bottom which leaves space for the exhaust silencer and lateral-mounted tailpipes.

Personalisation

In addition to the exterior personalisation, the interior can also be tailored to suit the owner’s taste thanks to a new range of finishes and upholsteries with Renault i.d.

The interior performance credentials are mirrored in details such as the aluminium pedal facings, as well as by the perforated leather-covered steering wheel with visible stitching and yellow centre-point marker. The unique Renaultsport seats are exceptionally comfortable and ensure a high level of body-hugging lateral support. The new yellow rev-counter includes an audible and visible gearshift indicator to help optimise gear changes. The size of the figures displayed on the rev-counter increases as the needle approaches the red zone. Renaultsport badging is visible inside the cabin on the rev-counter background, sills and front seats.

With Renault i.d., customers have a choice of three interior trim colours (Grey, Yellow or Carbon for the seats, seatbelts and fascia trim) enabling customers to personalise their car to their taste. Customers looking for additional luxury will be tempted by the optional leather upholstery.

Seats designed and developed in association with Recaro continue to be available. They are equipped with lateral airbags, plus a rigid, glass-fibre/polyamide-injected shell which provides the sort of all-enveloping experience associated with motor sport. The slots for the harness belts and integral headrest add a further sporty touch, while at the same time holding occupants firmly in place.

New suspension settings

As with the previous Clio Renaultsport 197, Clio Renaultsport 200 benefits from significant changes compared with the standard version of Clio. The front and rear tracks are wider by 48mm and 50mm respectively and the wheelbase is extended by 10mm to 2,585mm for greater stability.

The front suspension’s independent steering axis layout is unique to the B segment. This technology significantly reduces torque steer under acceleration. Unlike a MacPherson-type arrangement, the steering axis of the front suspension is totally independent of damping. To minimise weight, Clio Renaultsport 200’s independent steering axis front suspension employs aluminium components and guarantees precise handling and outstanding traction whatever the conditions. The rear suspension is based on that of Clio 2009 and features a programmed deflection torsion beam which has been uprated by 25 per cent to complement the efficiency of the front’s independent steering axis layout for precise, immediate turn-in.

In response to customer demand, the suspension settings for both the standard car and the hard core, Cup set-up have been revised.

Standard chassis: efficiency and comfort
The development of the standard chassis from the Clio Renaultsport 197 was guided by a bid to strike the best possible balance between performance and comfort when driven daily. Clio Renaultsport 200 marks an improvement in terms of comfort over its predecessor thanks to:

* new damper settings (15 per cent softer),
* the use of hydraulic double-effect dampers. The energy which needs to be dissipated is absorbed in part by an additional level of valving. The performance of these new dampers is particularly appreciable on longer journeys and motorway drives.

Meanwhile, body movement is kept in check thanks to the larger diameter front anti-roll bar, up from 20mm to 21mm. Specifically-developed Continental Sport Contact 3 tyres (215/45 R17) ensure swifter, more precise steering response. The new design of the standard aluminium alloy wheels is now 1kg lighter and the ensuing gain in terms of unsprung weight contributes further to the new car’s enhanced steering response and crisp acceleration.

The ‘Cup’ chassis: glued to the road
New Clio Renaultsport 200 is also available with the Cup chassis which has been engineered to deliver an exacting ride and uncompromising driving enjoyment. Its ability to corner flat is enhanced by:

* uprated dampers (15 per cent stiffer) compared with the Cup setting on Clio Renaultsport 197
* stiffer springs compared with the standard chassis (uprated 27 per cent at the front and 30 per cent at the rear) for even better handling

The ride height remains 7mm lower than that of the standard chassis and the resulting lower centre of gravity ensures improved cornering performance thanks to reduced weight transfer. Torsional rigidity has been improved by 10 per cent enabling the potential of the independent steering axis front suspension to be fully exploited.

Last but not least, the Cup chassis now comes with a higher ratio steering rack (7.5% quicker than the standard chassis) which, combined with other specific development work, favours feedback to the driver in conditions of varying grip.

The Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup weighs 1204kg boasting the best power-to-weight ratio in its class at 166hp per tonne.

The Cup chassis and steering setting is standard on the Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup and optional on the Clio Renaultsport 200. Externally it can be identified by anthracite finish to the alloy wheels and red brake callipers.

Powerful, durable brakes
Clio Renaultsport 200’s powerful, durable brakes combine with the latest Continental Sport 3 tyres (215/45) to guarantee stopping distances identical to those of very high-end sporting models. Pedal travel is progressive and easy to gauge. The 312mm-diameter ventilated front discs are paired with four-pot Brembo callipers, while the 300mm-diameter rear discs function with single-piston TRW callipers.

More power and efficiency

Clio Renaultsport 200 is powered by the latest-specification normally-aspirated 2.0 16V engine (F4R RS). With a specific power output of more than 100hp/litre, this powerplant delivers an extremely high level of performance for the hot hatch segment. In addition to the gains achieved at low revs, peak power has been increased by 3hp to 200hp at 7,100rpm. Meanwhile, the low-end (below 3,000rpm) torque boasted by Clio Renaultsport 200 has been boosted by an impressive 20 per cent over that of the 197 thanks to a new cylinder head and fine-tuning of the engine mapping.

The first, second and third gear ratios have all been shortened for punchier acceleration and to facilitate motoring in built-up areas. This engine drives through a manual six-speed gearbox (TL4) and claims maximum torque of 215Nm at 5,400rpm (compared with 5,500rpm for Clio Renaultsport 197). Clio Renaultsport accelerates from standstill to 62mph in just 6.9 seconds and on to a top speed, where permissible, of 141mph.

Despite the power increase, an illustration of the development work that has gone into this powertrain has resulted in its fuel consumption and CO2 emissions being slightly reduced to 34.4mpg in the combined cycle and 195g/km.

TWO DISTINCT VERSIONS

To meet customer demand even more closely, the Clio Renaultsport 200 range is offered again in two distinct versions:

* Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup - for enthusiastic customers who are passionate about their driving. This version has the Cup chassis as standard
* Clio Renaultsport 200 - for customers looking for a well-equipped performance car. This version has a higher level of standard equipment. The Cup chassis setting is available as an option.

Model

CO2

BIK

Insurance Group

MRRP

Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup

195

27%

tbc

£15,570.00

Clio Renaultsport 200

195

27%

tbc

£16,570.00

Despite its compromise-free, performance intent, the Clio Renaultsport 200 is equipped with a particularly generous equipment specification to simplify and enhance life on board.

The standard equipment specification on the Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup includes the following;

* Cup chassis - lower ride height, stiffer springs and dampers, anthracite colour to the wheels, red brake callipers
* Electric windows
* Six airbags - auto-adaptive driver and passenger, lateral airbags and anti-submarining front seat airbags (the anti-submarining airbags are not fitted to the optional Recaro Renaultsport seats)
* ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution
* Disconnectable ESP stability control
* Rake-adjustable steering column
* Leather steering wheel
* Multi-function trip computer
* 4 x 20W RDS CD MP3 radio with fingertip steering column controls and RCA socket
* 17″ Renaultsport alloy wheels
* ISOFIX child seat mounting points on outer rear seats
* Thatcham category 2 alarm system
* Drilled aluminium pedal facings
* RAID (Renault Anti Intruder Device) which automatically locks the doors at over 5mph
* Black door mirrors, gloss black finish to the rear diffuser and the centre section of the front bumper

To this comprehensive standard equipment package, the Clio Renaultsport 200 adds the following equipment:

* Climate control
* Renault Hands Free Keycard
* Reach-adjustable steering column
* Renaultsport leather steering wheel with yellow centre marking
* One-touch electric windows
* Three height-adjustable rear head rests
* 60:40 split folding rear seat
* Cruise control
* Speed limiter
* Curtain airbags
* 17″ Renaultsport alloy wheels in silver
* Front fog lamps
* Electrically-adjustable and heated door mirrors with gloss black finish
* Automatic headlamps and windscreen wipers
* ‘Soft-touch’ fascia with zinc-coloured matt finish to the centre console
* Body-coloured side mouldings
* The Cup chassis is optional on this version

On the 200 Cup, customers can also choose from options such as manual air conditioning (£550), a choice of different wheel designs (Raider, white or black Speedline, all at £175), Recaro seats (£850). On the Renaultsport 200, customers have a wider choice including the new Carminat TomTom®, the first integrated GPS navigation system for just £450, Cup chassis (£400), Renault i.d. exterior pack in anthracite. (£150), Renault i.d. interior packs (carbon or yellow, £100) or Renault i.d. leather upholstery (£900)

Clio Renaultsport 200 ordering opens 15th May with the first UK deliveries from the end of June. Customers can find out more details at www.renaultsport.co.uk

[Source:Autoblog]

Renault’s low cost Romanian brand, Dacia, will be unveiling its very first concept at the Geneva Motor Show this week. Called the Duster, the concept features a crossover-style body with some very interesting styling elements like headlights that trail off across the front fenders and rear tail-lights that stretch forward across a flying buttress of sheetmetal above the rear wheels. Kudos to Renault designers in Romania and France for penning such an interesting shape. Contained within is an equally useful interior with a neat modular trick: The front passenger seat slides underneath the driver’s seat on rails, creating enough room to carry a mountain bike inside the car rather than on top of it. Of course, there are those concept car elements that have to be included like ridiculously large 21-inch wheels, an all-glass roof and rear-hinged back doors, but the Duster’s powertrain is anything but fanciful. The concept is powered by Renault’s 1.5L dCi four-cylinder diesel engine that produces 105 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. Dacia says that’s enough to push the Duster to 62 mph in 9.6 seconds while returning 44.4 mpg (U.S). Check out the official press release from Dacia after the jump, our high-res gallery of images below and keep an eye on our live coverage of the Geneva Motor Show by clicking here.

[Source: Dacia]

PRESS RELEASE

DUSTER: THE CONCEPT CROSSOVER FROM DACIA UNVEILED AT GENEVA MOTORSHOW

• Dacia is breaking fresh ground and springs yet another surprise with the unveiling in Geneva
of Duster, a futuristic, image-building crossover that promotes the same values for which the
brand has stood from the beginning.

• Duster is Dacia’s first concept car and the fruit of close collaboration between Renault Design
Central Europe in Bucharest, Romania, and Renault Design Technocentre in Guyancourt,
France.

• Duster’s athletic stance adds an undeniable sporty feel to the brand’s hallmark robustness.

• Inside, the use of colour, generous cabin space and an original modular layout ensure a
particularly convivial ambience for occupants.

ROBUST AND SPORTY

Duster – Dacia’s first concept crossover – is proud to be different. Seen from the driver’s side, it is visibly a
sporting coupé, yet passengers entering from the other side will see it as an MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) with
a traditionally opening front door and rear-hinged rear door which suggest plush travelling refinement.

Duster’s height of 1.49 metres, short front and rear overhangs (65cm and 80cm respectively), generous
wheelbase (2.80m) and compact volumes (4.25m long, 1.64m wide) exude an overriding sense of robustness
and sports appeal.

The front end features a broad bumper with two horizontal air-intake slits that suggest power. The grille
features evident Dacia styling cues and is flanked by headlamps which wrap over the front wings to form a
tapering line of light that stretches rearward towards the doors.
Viewed from the side, the clear-cut lines of the wheel arches and tall doors reinforce the impression that
Duster sits squarely on the road. The Anthracite Grey bodywork and extensive one-piece glazed sweep –
made possible by the absence of a central pillar – highlights the styling of the sides which are unmistakably
reminiscent of Duster’s graphic identity.
At the rear, the engraved Dacia logo further emphasizes the concept car’s robust, dependable credentials.

Like Logan, Duster is just 4.25 metres long, and its inherent agility ensures that it is perfectly at home in the
urban jungle. Meanwhile, its 21-inch, five-spoke aluminium alloy wheels, exterior mirrors positioned on the
window surround and trapezoidal aluminium exhaust tailpipes are telltale signs of its sporting pedigree.

Special care has gone into Duster’s aerodynamic efficiency (Cd: 0.30) and the fluid lines of the body sides
enable air to flow freely along the vehicle’s flanks before being jettisoned through the rear lights. The
aerodynamic, wing-like forms of the roof-mounted direction indicators also channel airflow towards the rear.
The sum of all this work has naturally been beneficial to fuel consumption, and Duster stands out as a
particularly environmentally-respectful crossover. Despite its performance potential, the particulate filter-
equipped 1.5 dCi 105hp engine (77kW) emits just 139g of CO2/km, equivalent to fuel consumption of 5.3
litres/100km.

A CROSSOVER WITH DACIA HALLMARKS

This futuristic crossover showcases the brand’s core values – namely simplicity, robustness and authenticity –
in a surprising form, yet Dacia’s hallmark ingenuity and generosity are immediately apparent in the way
designers have approached Duster’s cabin.

The concept car’s two-tone chocolate and blue interior exudes a sense of well-being and conviviality. The fully
glazed roof floods the cabin with light, while the enveloping forms of the staggered slim-line front seats
provide first class comfort and support. The driver’s seat is incorporated in a structure which extends all the
way from the sill to the centre console, forming a sculptural, one-piece ensemble that echoes the exterior’s
sporty appeal.

The user-friendly dashboard features fluid, expressive lines while employing simple materials. The driver’s
side front airbag is housed in the lower part of the steeringwheel which has made it possible to position the
screen centrally and free up appreciable stowage space on the dashboard. The latter’s receding lines also
provide record kneeroom of 280mm for the front passenger who benefits from an exceptionally comfortable
seating position. The bellows-like form of the original two-tone dashboard incorporates a 20-litre glovebox,
while the door inserts each include eight-litre stowage bins. Another bin has been cleverly concealed in the
back of the rear right-hand seat. A simple push causes a box to slide forward from the boot which itself is in
total keeping with the Dacia spirit, with the upright tailgate providing a carrying capacity of 470dm3 (VDA), a
remarkable achievement for a vehicle of Duster’s compact overall dimensions .

Duster is an adaptable, modular concept car. The four-seat ‘daily driver’ layout can be swiftly converted into a
leisure configuration in a matter of seconds. The passenger seat slides underneath the driver’s seat on rails
concealed in the floor to leave just one front seat and consequently free up a total carrying volume of two
cubic metres. Thanks to a recess in the floor and a strap located under the dashboard, this space can be
used to carry a trials mountain bike.

Dimensions
Length (mm) 4,250
Width (mm) 1,640
Height (mm) 1,495
Overall width, doors open (mm) 4,285
Wheelbase (mm) 2,804
Front track (mm) 1,637
Rear track (mm) 1,640
Unladen weight (kg) 1,300
Boot volume (dm3 VDA) 470

Technical data
Engine type: dCi 105
Maximum power: hp (kW) 105 (77)
Maximum torque: (Nm) 240 at 2,000rpm
Acceleration from standstill to 100kph: (s) 9.6
CO2 emissions:
Combined cycle fuel consumption – 139g/km, equivalent to 5.3 litres/100km
Transmission: Manual six-speed gearbox
Tyres: 245/35 ZR21
Wheels: 21-inch diameter wheels

Partners
ProtoStyle Body styling
Michelin Tyres

[Source:Autoblg]

With Europe’s other major international car show alternating to Frankfurt in 2009, the upcoming Geneva Motor Show is as close to home turf as the French automakers will get this year. Along with the new concept its Romanian budget brand Dacia is tipped to unveil at the show, Renault will be descending on the lakeside Swiss city with an updated version of its bread-and-butter Clio. The modest facelift draws on cues from the larger and newer Megane and Laguna models, with a small air inlet on the nose and a larger one integrated into the front bumper. The rear bumper as also bee mildly revised, while the updated cabin features a new sat-nav unit which Renault has developed together with TomTom to offer the cost-effective and web-upgradeable benefits of a standalone aftermarket GPS with the integration of a factory nav unit.

The updated Clio will debut with a new GT trim level that slots in below the hot Renaultsport version, with some of the aggressive cues but without the go-fast bits that make Renault’s hot hatches the king of the hill. Renault has released a slew of photos of the new Clio ahead of its debut, which you can check out in the gallery below, along with the details in the press release after the jump.

PRESS RELEASE

NEW RENAULT CLIO
THE NEW BENCHMARK

* New Renault Clio opens a new chapter in the Clio saga which began in 1990 and which has since seen the model go from strength to strength.
* New Renault Clio stands out as a versatile, balanced package which carries over the same qualities that saw Clio III take the ‘Car of the Year ‘ award in 2006, namely benchmark cabin space, safety, comfort and roadholding, as well as the same rigorous build quality that has made it one of its segment’s most reliable models.
* Renault’s new compact hatchback features:
o renewed styling which incorporates the same dynamic cues as those which have become the hallmarks of New Renault Mégane’s front end,
o a new GT version, enabling Renault Clio customers to sample the world of sporty motoring. New Renault Clio GT boasts racy looks and ‘fun to drive’ handling.
o Carminat TomTom, the first fully integrated and affordable GPS navigation solution. Renault’s latest navigation solution has been co-developed with TomTom and will be dual branded. The navigation solution, easily updateable on the internet, has a large colour screen, and will include traffic and speed limit information, as well as safety camera locations, at a price of less than €500.
* The motoring public will get a chance to take a closer look at New Renault Clio at the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show.

A compact hatchback which reinforces Clio’s family ties with New Renault Mégane

New Renault Clio sits squarely on the road and boasts more streamlined styling, with the lines of the headlamp modules now extending down to the lateral upturns of the front air intake. Indeed, the broad air intake in the lower part of the front bumper sets off the dynamic frontal styling which are also suggested by the presence of gloss black protective mouldings. The revised design of the rear lights prolongs the waist line across the hatch, while the uncluttered approach to the design of the central part of the rear bumper further emphasizes New Renault Clio’s dynamic stance. The reversing lights and foglamps are positioned low down and to the extreme right and left of the bumper.

The choice of the new interior trims and equipment was guided by a desire to produce a sense of well-being and perceived quality, and the screen of the Carminat TomTom GPS navigation system is perfectly integrated into the upper part of the centre console.

New Renault Clio GT: an unprecedented version with genuine character

As with other Renault models, a GT version forms part of the New Renault Clio range. The compact and racy New Renault Clio GT hatchback features an exclusive body colour, Malta Blue. Its frontal styling is more aggressive and includes a gloss black grille, while the side sills hint at the performance of the GT version’s specific suspension. New Renault Clio GT is easily recognizable from the rear thanks to its twin exhaust tailpipes and lip spoiler.

There are eye-catching sporty details inside the car, too, including drilled aluminium pedal covers and extra side support for the seats, plus GT-badging for the front seats.

Carminat TomTom: the first fully integrated, updatable and affordable navigation solution

Renault’s latest GPS navigation solution, Carminat TomTom, is the fruit of the carmaker’s partnership with TomTom to bring affordable integrated navigation solutions to Renault customers. Ready to start working from the moment you start the car and particularly easy to use, the solution will give Clio drivers a safe and stress-free driving experience.

Some of the features the Carminat TomTom will have are:

* an easy-to-read 5.8 inch (14.7cm) colour screen (larger than that of removable systems) for the display of detailed birds-eye view maps,
* reliable, updateable navigation complete with traffic, safety camera locations and speed limit information,
* at a price of less than €500

All the fundamentals of Clio III

New Renault Clio boasts the same qualities that saw Clio III earn the ‘Car of the Year ‘ award in 2006, namely:

* benchmark interior space and comfort,
* acclaimed ride comfort,
* a wide choice of responsive, environmentally friendly engines,
* a range of equipment from the next segment up, including a hands-free card and cruise control with speed limiter,
* outstanding safety credentials,
* the same rigorous build quality that has made it one of the most reliable cars of its segment.

The motoring public will be given the opportunity to take a more detailed look at New Renault Clio at the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show.

[Source:Autoblog]

At this point, Ford’s sale of Volvo appears imminent. The only question now is who wants to take the Swedish automaker off the Blue Oval’s hands. Last week we told you of a possible sale as early as mid-February, and now Reuters is reporting that the buyer could be Renault. The two automakers allegedly got together in the fall to discuss the outright purchase of Volvo and now, the two have apparently resumed talks.

Volvo and Renault almost combined back in 1993, but management and stockholders at the Swedish automaker were against the merger. Fast forward to 2009, and Volvo is coming off a $1.5 billion loss for 2008, and Ford is draining cash by the bucket. Renault could find a bargain-basement Volvo as a nice fit, considering that it just recently canceled plans to produce a new large car. Volvo’s Ford-based large car lineup could slot nicely in Renault’s offerings, saving big Euros on development. Some are speculating that Renault, which owns 44% of Nissan, would have Volvo all to itself, though we’re sure some sharing between the three automakers is bound to happen if the deal goes down.

[Source: AutoCar]