Clio Renaultsport 197

Driving
The Renault comes alive at the press of the starter button. It delivers 194bhp and there�s a noticeable step up in power as the variable valve timing kicks in. The Renault leaps into life above 5,000rpm, where it takes on a howling and buzzy nature all the way to the 7,500rpm red line. However, lower down in the revs, it�s not quite as flexible. You need to work the engine hard. But the six-speed manual makes this easy � it�s just a shame the shift action is slightly notchy. The steering also takes some getting used to, and feels artificially weighted, although there�s a sharpness to it that doesn�t ruin the involvement and adjustability of the chassis. And it�s this race-inspired edge that Renault has enhanced on the R27. With the Cup chassis, the Clio rides 7mm lower than the standard car, while the springs are 27 per cent stiffer at the front and 30 per cent at the rear. It has a hard-edged accuracy that makes it hugely enjoyable and responsive in corners. Body roll is virtually eliminated and there is masses of grip, making it reassuring to drive. There are not massive differences over the standard 197; this just feels more honed. The penalty is an overly harsh ride around town.

Marketplace
With its bulging lines, the Renault Sport Clio is one of the best-looking hot hatches on sale. But the F1 Team R27 features some very garish stickers; while you can�t blame Renault for using this special Clio to show off its F1 achievements, the stick-on decals (complemented by darkened rear windows) detract from this understated appeal. Luckily, they are a no-cost option! The F1 Team debuts the optional �Cup� chassis pack, available on the standard 197 once the 500 limited editions have been sold. In terms of rivals, no competitor offers such a suspension upgrade � which is why the Corsa VXR, Polo GTI and Seat Ibiza Cupra are all cheaper than the special R27. At least the �Cup� option pack will be less expensive, at around �600. We would find that sort of premium easier to justify.

Owning
The R27 features comfortable, supportive Recaro sets as standard � these are an �850 option on the normal 197, and include a clever side airbag. They also fold forward to give reasonable access to the rear. Yet once you�re in the back, you�ll find things a little tight, while the boot only offers 288 litres of space. Of more importance to hot hatch buyers will be the driving position, and the R27 scores well. There�s a decent range of steering wheel adjustment, and the seat is perfectly located. Visibility is fine too, and although the design of the Clio�s cabin isn�t particularly adventurous, the layout is clean, modern and straightforward. The steering wheel is great to hold, too. Less impressive are servicing costs � three inspections will cost you a whopping �810. Fuel economy of the high-revving engine is poor as well; in our hands, the Clio returned 27mpg. But it is at least the pick of the Clio line-up in terms of second-hand values; after three years, it�s worth a little under 45 per cent of its list price.

source:autoexpress.co.uk