New Clio RS Concept

[Wutputt]

Some spy pics of the production model were already shown in this topic: http://www.motorworld.net/forum/showthread.php?t=26111

But here's the info about the concept car they will be presenting on the Frankfurt Motorshow.

Originally Posted by Marketing Talk Clio Renaultsport Concept is the ultimate development of the dynamic new Clio III. Assertive lines, a powerful character and an exclusive interior make this a show car that blends refinement with high performance. A demonstration of Renault Sport Technologies expertise, it is set to become a worthy successor to the Clio Renault Sport 2.0 16V and it brings a first to this market segment: an underfloor air diffuser. Like the extractor vents in the front wings, it is derived directly from Formula 1. The independent mountings for the front suspension guarantee that the handling will be precise and sporting. Clio Renaultsport Concept heralds the production model which is due to go on sale in the first half of 2006. Retain the original spirit of the Clio III while enhancing its intrinsic qualities and dynamic capabilities: this was the challenge Renault Sport Technologies’ engineers were asked to rise to with Clio Renaultsport Concept, an exceptional car combining performance, excitement and driving pleasure. Sports styling The exclusive red of the Clio Renaultsport Concept is wholly in keeping with its character. Although easily recognizable, the original lines are emphasized by more pronounced curves. The specific styling of the side bodywork accentuates the power and energy of the car’s silhouette. Enlarged front and rear wings, the lowered stance and the profiled side skirts combine with the extractor vents and diffuser to enhance its aerodynamics and high-performance pedigree. Seven-spoke, 18-inch wheels with bodycoloured highlights reveal massive brake discs and calipers. A large, chrome-zinc-coloured air intake grille in the front bumper hints at the potential of the 2.0 16V’s naturally-aspirated engine developed by Renault Sport Technologies. The radiator grille and the fog light surrounds are also chromed, along with the door mirrors which add a high-tech touch. At the rear, the diffuser follows the chrome-zinc theme and the twin exhausts stress its competition heritage. Aerodynamics honed in competition The Clio Renaultsport Concept benefits from exceptional aerodynamics. The key innovation, both technologically and visually, is the incorporation of a diffuser within the rear bumper. Currently available only on the most expensive sports cars, it channels and accelerates air to create a low-pressure area and hence downforce. The result negates the need for a rear spoiler. To maximize the diffuser’s effectiveness, the exhausts are fitted within the side channels to optimize its efficiency. The extractor vents in the front wings also have an aerodynamic function, reducing turbulence, while also improving hot-air extraction from the engine bay. The grilles are positioned to direct air along the sides of the car, thereby optimizing performance. Handling: safe and fun Renault Sport Technologies’ new-generation front suspension design features independent mountings and aluminium components. Clio Renaultsport Concept thus enjoys the highest standards of traction and road holding, with a superb ride and precise handling. The 1520mm track and 2585mm wheelbase ensure that the Clio Renaultsport Concept’s cornering is efficient, safe and sporting. This layout, along with the choice of high-performance tyres (215/40 R18) have naturally involved extended bodywork. Renault Sport Technologies’ engineers have worked just as diligently on the brakes, the latest system offering exceptional stopping power and resistance to heat. At the front, red-painted calipers have four aluminium pistons and cross-drilled 330mm Brembo discs (280mm at the rear). The Clio Renaultsport Concept has been bred for performance, its dynamic qualities fully exploiting Renault Sport Technologies’ 2.0 16V naturally-aspirated engine. The engine is both powerful and flexible, delivering sports response and exemplary refinement via a six-speed gearbox. Sports character through and through Clio Renaultsport Concept’s interior confirms that this is no ordinary car. The chosen materials, chiefly chrome and leather, emphasize its finely honed design. A generous, panoramic sunroof accentuates Clio III’s innate qualities and enhances the sense of space and comfort. The four individual bucket seats are separated by an integral, chrome-zinc centre console. A body-coloured strip underlines the purity of the design. Upholstered in red and grey leather with built-in headrests, the seats are comfortable yet supportive, while the leather-covered dashboard’s fluid forms echo the Clio III style. White-faced instruments deliver essential information with optimum clarity and include a gear ratio indicator within the rev-counter. Covered in red and black leather with a flattened lower section, the steering wheel falls perfectly to hand. A new ergonomically efficient handbrake design is integrated into the centre console. Competition-style aluminium pedals and foot rest complete the sports character of Clio Renaultsport Concept’s interior.

Pics (does anyone has the highres versions?):

[szumszer]

looks awesome, but what are the chances that clio will have a full leather dashboard, even in RS trim ... obviously a concept finish on the inside, too bad, because like I said, it looks awesome

[Ian_yamaue]

Looks great! I'm impressed about the interior..

[vexor]

IMO, it doesn't looks as good as the version that it's replacing. But the interior looks pretty good.

This one is front engine, right?

If it is then I doubt it will be as well as the current Clio around the corners.

[numerouno]

Very sexy shape (I love the curves on its ass!) The more you look at it the more it grows on you IMO

[Wutputt]

Originally Posted by vexor This one is front engine, right? If it is then I doubt it will be as well as the current Clio around the corners.

Yups, front engined. The current Clio RS is front engined as well. Just ask Dani, he owns one, or at least the Cup version of it. Only the Clio V6 has an engine in the back

[vexor]

^^^ ?!?!?!?!?! I thought that the current Clio was mid-engined...

Either way, I think the current one is still better than the next gen.

[HeilSvenska]

According to Top Gear, there won't be any mid-engined Clio III

[sads]

I doubt much of the interior will make it to a production model, is it just me or does this car look a lot like the Mitsubishi Colt?

[moguai]

here's also a movie
http://www.renault-sport.com/fr/Imag...tcm2-17856.wmv

and some pics in hi-res


cheers

[oantob]

Nice car, I love the front end of this car...looks like Renault will be on top again

[mindgam3]

check out the rear diffuser!

[lovestick-]

is that two clutch pedals or a clutch and a "hand brake"?

[Wutputt]

Originally Posted by lovestick- is that two clutch pedals or a clutch and a "hand brake"?

huh?

The most left thingy is a footrest, not a pedal