Renault dumps plans to build the ultimate Clio
R.S.16 hot hatch shared key elements with Megane 275.
Renault has abandoned plans to build an ultra-hot version of its compact Clio hatchback.
The brand teased supporters with concept versions of the Clio R.S.16 for months before electing not to build the track-focused gem.
That's a shame, because the Clio R.S.16 had the ingredients to be a cracker.
Ditching its 1.6-litre motor in favour of a 202kW 2.0-litre unit sourced from the Renault Megane RS 275, the Clio also swapped its dual-clutch transmission and open front differential in favour of a proper six-speed manual gearbox and limited-slip diff.
It also borrowed larger Brembo brakes from the Megane, along with 19-inch wheels cloaked in sticky rubber that could have made the Clio a cult classic.
But the brand shelved its super-Clio to free up production capacity for the upcoming Alpine sports car, as the Clio would have been built in the same facility in Dieppe, France.
"The plant is also gearing up for the production of the Alpine and, it's due to the focus on this, that the eventual decision was made not to divert attention away to make some R.S.16s," Renault says.
"The option of delaying R.S.16 until after the start-up of Alpine was considered but this would have meant first-half 2018, too long for customers to wait."