Clio V6 Renault Sport

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Clio V6 Renault Sport
Also called:	Clio V6
Manufacturer:	Renault
Production:	2001–present
Predecessor:	Renault 5 Turbo II
Class:	MR Hot hatch
Body style:	2-door hatchback
Engine:	2946 cc V6 24v
Transmission:	6-gear manual
Length:	3,830 mm
Height:	1,420 mm
Curb weight:	1100 kg
Fuel capacity:	55l
Related:	Renault Clio
Similar:	Alfa Romeo 147 GTA Audi S3 BMW M1 Ford Focus RS SEAT León Cupra Volkswagen Golf R32

The Clio V6 Renault Sport is a Hot Hatch designed and built by French manufacturer Renault. It was launched in 2001 as a supersport version of the Renault Clio.

The 2001 Clio V6 was based on the MkII Clio, though shares very little by way of parts with that car. The 3.0 V6 engine, sourced from the Renault Laguna was upgraded to around 230 hp and placed in the middle of the vehicle where the more ordinary Clios have rear seats - making this car a 2-seater. The Clio V6 was facelifted in 2003 to resemble the MkIII Clio and was extensively reworked following criticisms of the original Clio V6's handling (especially in the wet). The new vehicle had an upgraded 255 hp V6, but also much more tractable and predictable handling.

In order to accommodate the radical change from front-engine, front-wheel drive hatchback to mid-engine, rear-wheel drive 2 seater quasi-coupé, the car had to be extensively reworked structurally, leading to the original version being some 300 kg (660 lb) heavier than the sportiest "regular" Clio, the 172 Cup. Due to this, even though the V6 model had significantly more power, it was not markedly faster than the 172 Cup - accelerating to 60 mph in 6.2s compared to the Cup's 6.7s - though its maximum speed was more significantly higher (146 mph compared to 138 mph). The second V6 model gained even more weight, but offset it better with even more power, resulting in a reduced 0-60 mph run at 5.6s and a 153 mph top speed.

The Clio V6 was until 2006 the most powerful serial produced hatchback in the world with 255 bhp, exceeding the Ford Focus RS (225 bhp), the Alfa Romeo 147 GTA (250 bhp) and the SEAT León Cupra R (225 bhp), and only surpassed by the BMW 130i with 265 bhp.

Though based on a practical hatchback, the Clio V6 is a very difficult car to live with. The 24mpg average leads to an empty fuel tank in just over 300 miles. The loss of the back seats AND boot space, due to the engine, results in a severe restriction in luggage space - there is only a small space where the engine used to be, suitable for a holdall, and whatever you can fit in the passenger seat - and the enhanced steering makes tight manoeuvreing quite the chore. The Clio V6 has a turning circle of around 13 metres (43 ft) - around three car lengths - making a three-point turn on a typical European road practically impossible.

The last Clio V6 retailed for a recommended £27,125 in the UK, until it was withdrawn from sale - coinciding with a facelift for the Clio range. As of yet there is no news on a new Clio V6 model.