Mega Clio 197 storms in

We've had the 172 and the 182, and now... bingo, here's the 197. That's the number announced this week for the hottest version yet of Renault's Clio hatch - the Renaultsport 197.

Auto Express Car Reviews

Upgraded engine gives Clio 197 pace to match its racy looks

09th May 2006

Priced £15,995, the 197bhp 2.0-litre machine is quicker off the mark than VW's Golf GTI; it covers 0-60mph in 6.9 seconds and hits 130mph. An extended front spoiler, bulging wheelarches, larger alloys and bespoke badges set the 197 apart from lesser models.

The interior features figure-hugging seats, a leather steering wheel, aluminium pedals and chrome instrument dial surrounds, plus air-con, electric windows, cruise control and a speed limiter.

Renault claims its recent F1 success has aided development; the hatch's rear diffuser, for example, is directly influenced by world champion Fernando Alonso's 200mph-plus machine.

Dealers will be taking orders from the end of this month, with the first examples hitting UK showrooms in mid-July. Members of the Renaultsport.co.uk community, however, are being offered the chance to pre-order now.

For an alternative review of the latest Renault Clio visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk