Renault South Africa has introduced a new version of the Clio, known as the Renault Clio ‘S’. The new model features a more sportier character than the standard car, thanks to exclusive and distinctive design details.
“While the Clio RS is undoubtedly one of the most exciting hot hatches available today, the launch of the sporty Clio S allows us to satisfy the demand for a feature-packed, value-added model that embodies the spirit and trend-setting style of Renault’s sporting flagships, but at a much more accessible price point. We believe the Clio S will appeal to young but discerning, trendy buyers that aspire to owning a Clio RS, yet are seeking a competitive and truly distinctive offering within their budget,” explains Renault SA managing director, Xavier Gobille.
The new Renault Clio S features a practical five-door configuration, yet remains overtly sporty with more than a hint of Renault’s motorsport lineage. The newcomer delivers a bold visual statement, due to the fitment of racy white, multi-spoke Canasta 16-inch alloy rims, fitted with 195/50 R16 tyres. The sporty wheels are complemented by white exterior mirrors, with the same treatment applied to the front bumper insert (flanked on either side by integrated fog lamps) and the rear lip spoiler. The ‘S’ package is rounded off with dark-tinted rear windows, as well as white ‘S’ decals that run along the doors and across the roof, helping the Clio S stand out from the crowd.
The sporty character continues inside through the use of black and white accents and trim lending a racy edge to the cabin. In keeping with the ‘S’ theme, the dashboard trim, instrument dials, centre console and lateral trim are all picked out in white. Similarly, the seats incorporate an eye-catching ‘S’-embossed dark cloth upholstery boasting a white chequered pattern, with further ‘S’ badging on the door sills rounding off its exclusive appeal.
Three colour choices are available for the Clio S at launch, Capsicum Red, Extreme Blue and Pearl Black.
Based on the Expression equipment level, the Clio S is positioned at the entry level of the current Clio range. Besides the sporty ambiance, the Clio S owner is treated to a number of conveniences, including air-conditioning, cruise control, a multi-function computer, electric front windows, remote central locking, power steering and electrically adjustable, heated mirrors.
The Renault Clio S employs the familiar 1 598 cc 16-valve engine used in the current Clio Dynamique. It produces 83 kW of power at 6 000 r/min, matched to 151 Nm of torque at 4 250 r/min. Linked to a five-speed transmission, this enables the Clio S to accelerate from 0 – 100 km/h in 10.2 sec and achieve a top speed of 190 km/h. The Clio S uses an average of just 6.7 l/100 km of unleaded in the combined cycle with a CO2 emissions rating of 160 g/km.
The Renault Clio S sells for R179 900 and is backed by Renault’s 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 3-year/60 000 km service plan. Plus, if for whatever reason you’re not happy after buying one, you can take it back and get a refund!
