The Renault Sport Clio V6 is a Hot Hatch designed and built by French manufacturer Renault. It was launched in 2001 as a supersport version of the Renault Clio. The Clio v6 is approaching cult status as production of these rare & beautiful cars has now ceased. The long-term reviews in EVO magazine were enthusiatic for both the Phase 1 & Phase 2 versions, and Top Gear's Jeremy Clarkson commented "In my perfect 10 car garage I would definitely have one of these – no question".
The 2001 Clio V6 (Phase 1) was based on the MkII Clio, though it shares very little by way of parts with that car. The 3.0 V6 engine, sourced from the Renault Laguna was upgraded to around 230 hp and placed in the middle of the vehicle where the more ordinary Clios have rear seats - making this car a 2-seater. The Clio V6 (Phase 1) was facelifted in 2003 to resemble the MkIII Clio, and was extensively reworked following criticisms of the original Clio V6's handling (especially in the wet). The new vehicle had an upgraded 255 hp V6, but also much more tractable and predictable handling. According to BBC's Top Gear programme, the later Phase 2Clio V6 has similar performance to an Aston Martin Vantage.
In order to accommodate the radical change from front-engine, front-wheel drive hatchback to mid-engine, rear-wheel drive 2 seater quasi-coupé, the car had to be extensively reworked structurally, leading to the Phase 1 version being some 300 kg (660 lb) heavier than the sportiest "regular" Clio, the 172 Cup. Due to this, even though the V6 model had significantly more power, it was not markedly faster than the 172 Cup - accelerating to 60 mph in 6.2s compared to the Cup's 6.7s - though its maximum speed was more significantly higher (146 mph compared to 138 mph). The Phase 2 Clio V6 gained even more weight but offset it with even more power resulting in a reduced 0-60 mph run at 5.6s and a 153 mph top speed.
The Clio V6 was until 2006 the most powerful serial produced hatchback in the world with 255 bhp, exceeding the Ford Focus RS (225 bhp), the Alfa Romeo 147 GTA (250 bhp) and the SEAT León Cupra R (225 bhp), and only surpassed by the BMW 130i with 265 bhp.
Though based on a utilitarian hatchback, the Clio V6 is not a practical family car. The 24mpg average leads to an empty fuel tank in just over 300 miles. 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 but useful netted area behind the seats plus a small stash area under the tailgate. The enhanced steering makes tight manoeuvring a little challenging but multi-story carparks are still negotiable. The Clio V6 has a turning circle of around 13 metres (43 ft) - around three car lengths - turning what might normally be a 3-point turn into a 4-point turn. Despite these limitations, the Clio V6 is easy to live with on a day to day basis. The mechanicals are tough & reliable. Many owners upgrade the exhaust for slightly more power & a racier sound. Standard equipment includes rain sensing windscreen wipers, automatic headlights, air conditioning, and 6 speakers & CD changer.
The last Clio V6 retailed for a recommended £27,125 in the UK, until it was withdrawn from sale - coinciding with a facelift for the Clio range. As of yet there is no news on a new Clio V6 model.
