Renaultsport Clio

While fans are still mourning the loss of the soon-to-be-axed Clio V6 and Renaultsport 182, the French firm has revealed the stunning successor to both. Bringing ground-breaking Formula One technology to the hot hatch market for the first time, this pumped-up Clio is set to rival the VXR version of Vauxhall's next Corsa - and even has the credentials to worry VW's mighty Golf GTI.

Lower, wider and more powerful than any other model in the new Clio line-up, the four-cylinder 2.0-litre Renaultsport will feature all the sporty details you'd expect from a firm comfortably leading the F1 drivers' championship. Although the aggressive chrome grille and lower stance make it look the part, the improvements go more than skin deep.

The most innovative addition is a racing-style underbody diffuser - the first time such a device has been fitted to a mainstream model. Usually found on high-performance supercars, it creates downforce and eliminates the need for a bulky rear spoiler. For maximum efficiency, the twin exhaust pipes are even integrated into the design.

The Renaultsport Clio concept will debut at next month's Frankfurt Motor Show, and is virtually identical to the production car which arrives in autumn 2006. It has a tuned 2.0-litre 16v engine and six-speed gearbox. Together, these should power the pocket rocket from 0-60mph in around seven seconds and on to a top speed of 150mph.

Although the car is still recognisable as a new Clio, plenty of details hint at its performance. Wing vents aid engine cooling and unique twin-spoke 18-inch alloys fill the blistered wheelarches to provide improved grip.

Revised suspension ensures the front-wheel-drive car is as fast around corners as in a straight line. It features lightweight aluminium parts, and should give the hatchback sharp handling to back up those aggressive new looks.

The low stance is enhanced by a wider front bumper with chrome foglamps, plus pronounced sills. Uprated Brembo brakes with cross-drilled discs are standard. The story continues inside, where the firm's designers have been equally thorough. Sporty cues include four individual bucket seats, as well as a leather steering wheel with a flattened bottom section. Aluminium pedals reinforce the theme, as do the stylish white-faced dials, which include a rev counter with gear-ratio indicator.

Prices for the supermini have yet to be announced but, as it will be less than the Renaultsport Mégane 225, expect to pay around ΂£17,000. The Clio won't have the power of bigger rivals - yet its smaller proportions and low weight could result in giant-killing performance.

The only disappointment is that we will have to wait until autumn 2006 to find out. However, if the newcomer is as good to drive as it is to look at, competitors will be very worried. On this evidence, the Clio Williams and 182 have a worthy successor.