Regular readers will know that I’m not really a fan of the new Renault Clio RS, mainly because of its lack of manual gearbox. It wouldn’t be so bad, if the auto ‘box was a decent one, but it wasn’t from my driving experience. Anyway, I’m already starting to lose the point of this article.
Paint It Black
The French brand is now offering a new option for both the RS 200 and the RS 220 Trophy, and no it’s not a manual sadly. In fact, it’s nothing to aid performance, only to make the car look sharper and more aggressive. It’s called the Black Edition and is priced at £200 for the RS 200 and £350 for the RS 220 Trophy. But what does it actually include?
Well in the case of the RS 200, you’ll receive door handles, moulding inserts, side mouldings, front blade tailgate moulding and badging, plus rear diffusor, all finished in gloss black. This will be available no matter which exterior colour you choose for you new Clio RS. For the Trophy version, you’ll get exactly the same, only this time you will lose the moulding inserts and receive 17″ black alloys.
The power for both cars will remain the same of course; both cars are fitted with a turbocharged 1.6 litre petrol which pumps out 200hp (standard car) and 220hp (Trophy). This power is fed through to a – said through gritted teeth – six-speed automatic gearbox with power fed to the front wheels. 0-62 is dealt with in under 7.0 seconds and the top speed is pushing 145mph.
It’s far from awful, but I’d think I opt for the Ford Fiesta ST, given the choice. If you prefer the French pocket rocket though, it is of course available to buy now with prices starting from £20,295.
