The Clio S was a name first used by Renault in the 1990s, in the early days of the Clio’s life. The new Clio S for the 21st century is meant to "bring the sporty look and feel to the core Clio range," according to a press release from Renault.

The new Clio S is a three-door hatchback, based on the Expression trim level of the Clio five-door. New additions to the Clio S include electric windows, heated electric mirrors, CD and radio with auxiliary jack, and foglights. There are also new 16-inch Polar white alloy wheels.

Four new body colours are available for the Clio S, Capsicum Red, Extreme Blue, Glacier White, or Pearl Black. Other cosmetic additions include dark tinted windows and rear glass, a new white insert in the front bumper, and matching white stripes along the sides and on the roof, with additional bolder stripes available as an option. There is also a GT rear spoiler, finished in white.

On the inside, the Clio S features white inserts on the dashboard and centre console, and matching patterns on the seats. There are also whited-out instrument dials and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, with the letter 'S’ embroidered on the upholstery.