Since the launch of the R8 Gordini Cup in 1966, Renaultsport has been present on the racetracks the world over. The four generations of the Clio Cup have earned recognition for their performance, reliability and accessibility.
Replacing the model used since 2006, the new Clio Cup - manufactured and assembled at the Alpine factory in Dieppe, France - has benefited from all the assets of the Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo, starting with its chassis.
Reinforced by a welded roll cage, the monocoque chassis delivers increased safety and is stronger too.
Engineers at Renault Sport Technologies' have put all their knowledge into the new 1.6-litre turbocharged engine - marking its return after more than 20 years. The power unit produces 220bhp and a constant torque of 270Nm.
It is hooked to a six-speed, sequential gearbox that enables gear shifts to be made in just 100 milliseconds. Steering wheel paddle shifts are available as an option, along with a classic gearstick.
The track-hugging new Clio Cup also comes with adjustable shock absorbers. Combined with adjustable axles, this innovative feature allows teams to set the racer to suit different track conditions and driving styles. The engine and gearbox are monitored by a unique ECU that can be accessed only by engineers from Renault Sport Technologies.
The new rear spoiler keeps the new Clio Cup firmly on the ground, generating nearly 40kg of additional downforce at 193km/h, while the roof scoop improves ventilation in the driver compartment.
Special care has been taken with the new Clio Cup's interior. Incorporated into an ergonomic and highly functional dashboard, all the driver controls and displays are within fingertip reach.
The colour display screen shows all the diagnostics in real time as well as essential data for the driver - fastest lap, gap on a selected driver, track layout, etc.
The multi-functional steering wheel brings the most useful information within easy reach. Its seven buttons operate a wide variety of functions, each of which can come in handy during races, such as headlights, windscreen wipers and the display screen scroll.
One of the buttons can also be hooked up to a free connector on the wiring loom to hook up an extra function, such as a radio or drink dispenser.
