Renault Clio V6 Phase 2
The Renault Clio V6 Renault Sport is a rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout sport compact based on the Renault Clio launched in 2001. Designed by French automaker Renault the Phase 1 models were built by Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR) in Uddevalla, Sweden and Phase 2 were designed and hand built by Renault Sport in Dieppe, France. Both variants were developed by TWR. The mid-engined, wide-body concept of the Clio V6 was very reminiscent of the 1980s Renault 5 Turbo.
Both road going models were low volume production making them very rare cars. Alongside the road car, a circuit only version was produced, known as the Clio V6 Trophy. This was a full competition car, with sequential Sadev gearbox, full roll cage, magnesium wheels and engine output upped to 285 PS (210 kW; 281 bhp).
Clio V6 Phase 2 (2003–2005)
At the time of its launch in 2003, the upgraded Phase 2 Clio V6 was the most powerful serial produced hot hatch in the world with 255 PS (188 kW; 252 bhp), exceeding the Alfa Romeo 147 GTA (250 PS (184 kW; 247 bhp)) and the SEAT León Cupra R (225 PS (165 kW; 222 bhp)).
Though based on a utilitarian hatchback, the Clio V6 is not a practical family car. With an average fuel consumption of 24 miles per imperial gallon (12 L/100 km; 20 mpg‑US), this resulted in an empty fuel tank in just over 300 miles (480 km).
The loss of the back seats and most of the boot space, due to the engine placement, results in a severe restriction in luggage space – there is only a small space in the front where the engine used to be, suitable for a holdall or week-end groceries, a small netted area behind the seats plus a small stash area under the tailgate.
The enhanced steering makes tight manoeuvring a little challenging, the turning circle is 13 m (42.7 ft) – around three car lengths – turning what might normally be a three-point turn into a five-point turn. The Clio V6 Phase 2 gained even more weight, but offset it with an additional 25 horsepower. This resulted in a reduced 0–60 mph (97 km/h) run at 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 153 mph (246 km/h).
Standard equipment includes rain sensing windscreen wipers, automatic headlights, air conditioning, and six speakers and CD changer. The Phase 2 Clio V6 retailed for £27,125 in the United Kingdom, until it was withdrawn from sale in 2005 coinciding with a facelift for the Clio range. The long-term reviews in Evo magazine were enthusiastic, claiming “It’s a modern classic” for the Phase 2 version. Jeremy Clarkson once referred to the Clio V6 as one of his top 10 cars.
There were 1,309 production cars built in total between 2003 and 2005.
