Secret hot hatches of 2006 - Renault Clio Renaultsport

On sale: June 2006
Price: £16,000 (est)

In its previous guise, the Clio Renaultsport was a performance bargain. Offering 182bhp and a 0-60mph time of 7.1sec, it was close to the top of the hot hatch performance table, but cost just £14,800.

Now the all-new Clio is here, and hopefully the next-generation Renaultsport will pack an even bigger punch when it arrives in the summer. The hot hatch will be based on the three-door model, offering more cabin space than before, while the standard Clio’s nimble chassis provides a starting point full of potential.

Renault has basically unveiled the hot Clio with this concept, which features an F1 race car-inspired rear diffuser to improve the aerodynamics. Power is likely to be provided by a new 200bhp 2.0-litre engine, while a six-speed manual gearbox will delivers this to the front wheels, as in the previous car.

With a likely top speed of 150mph, and quicker acceleration than the old car, the new Clio looks set to retain its performance bargain status.

Don’t rule out the eventual appearance of a lightweight Cup edition, offering a stripped-out, go-faster model for less money. With no replacement planned for the previous Clio V6 range-topper, this would be the fastest model in the new range.


See the February 2006 issue of What Car? magazine for a free 100 Secret Cars of 2006 and Beyond supplement.