Renault previews rally-ready Clio subcompact

France’s Renault has lifted the veil off of a rally-ready variant of its popular Clio subcompact.  Called Clio Renaultsport R3T, the car is aimed largely at amateur racers looking to participate in rally events across Europe on a relatively low budget.

In its transition from a family hauler to a rally car, the Clio gains a beefier suspension designed by Sachs, bigger brakes built by PFC, an air scoop on the roof and side windows made out of Plexiglas.  Pictures of the interior are not available but Renault says the car is fitted with two bucket seats, a full roll cage, a digital instrument cluster and a fire extinguisher.  Alloy wheels wrapped with all-terrain tires round out the modifications.

The R3T is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that sends 200 horsepower and 177 lb-ft. of torque to the front wheels via a six-speed sequential gearbox.  Shift paddles mounted behind the steering wheel are available at an extra cost.  Fitted with Cosworth electronics, the engine has been thoroughly modified to handle rally duties but Renault is keeping technical details under wraps until a later date.

The rally-going Clio is capable of reaching 62 mph from a stop in 6.7 seconds and going on to a top speed of 143 mph.  

The Clio Renaultsport R3T will be approved to race in the FIA’s R3 class in the second half of next year.  Pricing information will be revealed closer to its on-sale date.<![CDATA[
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