Scheduled to make its UK debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the new Clio Renaultsport 220 Trophy boasts an increase of 20bhp and CO2 emissions of 135g/km – with a price tag of just £21,780.
Under the bonnet of what Renault says is a ‘track-day enthusiasts car’, is a 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine producing 217bhp, representing a 10 per cent increase over the Renaultsport 200 version. Pulling power has also increased and now stands at 260Nm, although an additional 20Nm is available with the ‘torque boost’ feature. Max pulling power sits low down the revs as well, at just 2,000rpm. The rev counter limit has been boosted, as it now sits at 6,800rpm.
To go alongside its improved performance credentials, the 220 Trophy has a new snappy gearbox to match, offering up to 50 per cent faster shifting for added race appeal. All of these improvements translate to a zero to 62mph sprint time of just 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 146mph. These performance figures sit alongside a claimed average fuel economy of 47.9mpg.
As expected, the Clio Renaultsport 220 Trophy model has a host of technical tweaks to its ride and handling to ensure a more performance-based drive. With the Trophy name comes a firmer lower suspension that is 20mm lower at the front and 10mm lower at the rear. Damper settings are also tweaked, offering a 40 per cent stiffer set up, meaning greater composure in the corners.
Familiar variable steering modes are also offered thanks to the R.S. Drive system. This brings Normal, Sport and Race modes – each offering unique characteristics. Standard kit on every model includes TomTom satellite navigation, a DAB radio, Bluetooth, rear parking camera and sensors
Orders for the new Renault Clio Renaultsport 220 Trophy are open now, with first deliveries expected in August.
