Review: Renault X85.I Clio RS (2008-10)

Overview

Released in August 2008, the Renault X85 Phase I (X85.I) Clio RS was a three-door, hot hatch. Manufactured in Flins, France, the Clio range consisted solely of the 197 variant, which was powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine – producing peak power of 197 brake horsepower – and mated to a six-speed manual transmission. In February 2009, the F1 Team R27 edition was released.

F4R engine

For the Clio RS 197, the 2.0-litre F4R engine had a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, variable valve timing and a compression ratio of 11.5:1. Compared to the F4R engine in the Clio RS 182, changes included increased valve lift (from 9 mm to 11.5 mm) for a longer and wider valve aperture, a redesigned combustion chamber and piston heads, a higher compression ratio (previously 11.0:1) and improved air intake and gas flow.

Dimensions and suspension

Compared to its X65 predecessor, the front-wheel drive X85 Clio RS was 218 mm longer (at 3991 mm), 129 mm wider (1768 mm), 75 mm taller (1484 mm) and had a 100 mm longer wheelbase (2585 mm).

The X85 Clio RS had double-axis front suspension and a torsion beam rear axle.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Clio RS 197 included dual front airbags, front side airbags, front and rear curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags (but not for the Recaro seats in the F1 Team R27), ABS, electronic brake force distribution, traction control, electronic stability control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Brakes

The Clio RS 197 had with 312 mm cross-drilled front brake discs with Brembo callipers and 300 mm solid rear discs.

Euro NCAP crash testing

In Euro NCAP crash testing , 2005 three-door Clio hatchback – fitted with a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine – achieved a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 32.67 out of 37. In the frontal offset test, there was a slight risk of serious chest and leg injury for the driver, while passenger leg protection was marginal. In the side impact test, some loads were transferred unrealistically up the driver’s spine such that maximum points were not awarded.

Features: Clio RS 197

Standard features for the Clio RS 197 included 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 tyres, a two speaker sound system with CD player, climate control air conditioning, front fog lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, a height adjustable driver’s seat, a tilt adjustable steering wheel, trip computer and an immobiliser. From April 2009, the 197 was fitted with a four speaker sound system.

Features: Clio RS 197 F1 Team R27

The F1 Team R27 edition was distinguished by its 17-inch charcoal colour alloy wheels, four speaker sound system with CD player, Recaro front seats, ‘Cup chassis’ suspension settings and red painted brake calipers.

Related links

• Specifications: Renault X85.I Clio RS 197 (April 2009)
• Specifications: Renault X85.I Clio RS 197 F1 Team R27 (April 2009)

Review: Renault X85.II Clio RS (2010-13)

Overview

Released in March 2010, the X85 Phase II (X85.II) Clio RS range consisted of the 200 variant, reflecting its slightly higher engine outputs. The X85.II Clio RS 200 also had improved low-rev response and improved equipment levels, while the ‘Cup’ suspension settings – with stiffer springs and shock absorbers – were standard across the range.

Features

Compared to its X85.I predecessor, the Clio RS 200 added auxiliary USB and iPod inputs, Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control with speed limiter, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, heated door mirrors, a tilt and reach adjustable steering wheel and rear privacy glass.

Beyond this, the Cup Trophee added Recaro front seats, keyless entry and start (with Renault card), power folding door mirrors and ‘carbon fibre effect’ trim.

From May 2012, the Clio RS was fitted with leather seats, while the speedometer face was changed to white (previously yellow) and the steering wheel received red stitching (also previously yellow).

2010 Clio RS Gordini edition

In September 2010, a Gordini edition was released. Compared to the standard RS 200, the Gordini edition was distinguished by its 17-inch ‘BeBop’ alloy wheels, Malta Blue metallic paint with white racing stripes, Gordini-embossed black leather seats, black leather-trimmed steering wheel, floor mats and Gordini build plate.

2011 Clio RS 200 Australian Grand Prix edition

In March 2011, an Australian Grand Prix edition of the RS 200 was released; it was distinguished by its black-gloss ‘Speedline’ alloy wheels, Recaro sports seats, Renault Sport monitor, yellow and black exterior paint finish, rear spoiler and commemorative plaque signed by Mark Webber.

2012 Clio RS 200 Angel and Demon edition

In February 2012, a limited-run Angel and Demon edition was released. Compared to the standard RS 200, the Angel and Demon edition was fitted with gloss-black 18-inch wheels with Bridgestone RE050A tyres and Brembo brake calipers; inside, there were leather Recaro sports seats and a commemorative plaque. Furthermore, the Angel and Demon edition was available in two matte colour finishes: Toro Red and Hologramme Grey.

2012 Clio RS 200 Red Bull edition

In October 2012, a limited-run Red Bull edition was released. Compared to the standard RS 200, the Red Bull editions had the Cup chassis and were fitted with 18-inch black Interlagos alloy wheels with Bridgestone RE050A tyres. Inside, the Red Bull editions featured Recaro seats, an RS Monitor, cloth seats, an individually-numbered commemorative plaque and hands-free entry.

Visually, the Red Bull editions were distinguished by their ‘Star’ black metallic paint finishes with contrasting liquid yellow highlights on the F1-style front blade, door mirror housings and diffuser, contrasting red brake calipers, black chequered flag rooftop decals and Red Bull Racing logos.

Brochures

• Brochure: Renault X85.II Clio RS 200 Cup (March 2010)
• Brochure: Renault X85.II Clio RS 200 Gordini (February 2011)
• Brochure: Renault X85.II Clio RS 200 Australian GP (March 2011)

Specifications

• Specifications: Renault X85.II Clio RS 200 Cup (March 2010)
• Specifications: Renault X85.II Clio RS 200 Gordini (September 2010)

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Renault X85 Clio

Review: Renault X98.I Clio RS (2013-16)

Overview

Released in Australia in December 2013, the Renault X98 Phase I Clio RS 200 was a light, five-door hatchback. Manufactured in Dieppe, France, the front-wheel drive Clio RS 200 Turbo was powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed double clutch transmission.

The Clio RS 200 range initially consisted of the Sport, Cup, Sport Trophy and Cup Trophy; in 2014, however, the Sport Trophy and Cup Trophy were replaced by the Sport Premium and Cup Premium.

M5MT/MR16DDT engine

Shared with the Nissan F15 Juke and B17 Pulsar SSS , the 1.6-litre M5MT/MR16DDT engine had all-aluminium construction, direct fuel-injection, nano-finished double overhead camshafts, twin variable valve timing control (i.e. for intake and exhaust valves), four valves per cylinder (with beehive springs and sodium-filled exhaust valves) and a compression ratio of 9.5:1.

For the Clio RS 200, maximum engine speed was 6500 rpm and the turbocharger provided peak boost pressure of 0.96 bar. The Clio RS 200 also had a brake energy recovery system which regulated alternator output to recharge the battery when the vehicle was coasting or braking, thereby reducing fuel consumption.

From June 2015 production, the Clio RS engine had a ‘Stop&Start’ function which enabled it to shut down when the vehicle was stationary in traffic to reduce fuel consumption. Furthermore, the updated engine was compliant with Euro 6 emissions standards and peak torque increased to 260 Nm.

EDC transmission

The ‘Efficient Double Clutch’ (EDC) transmission could be controlled via steering wheel gearshift paddles and offered three selectable driving modes: Normal, Sport and Race. In Race, gear changes could be made in just 150 milliseconds and the X98 Clio RS 200 could accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds.

Dimensions

Compared to the X98 Clio on which it was based, the Clio RS 200 was 28 mm longer (at 4090 mm) and 16 mm lower (1432 mm), though width (1732 mm) and wheelbase length (2589 mm) were unchanged; kerb weight was 1218 kg.

Suspension

The Clio RS 200 had MacPherson strut front suspension (with a right-angled triangular lower wishbone and twin bushes) and a torsion beam rear axle with coil springs. The suspension also included Renault’s ‘Hydraulic Compression Control’ system which incorporated a secondary damper within the main damper body to prevent ‘bottoming out’.

Electronic differential lock

The X98 Clio RS 200 was fitted with a RenaultSport electronic front differential which used inputs from wheel speed sensors to anticipate a loss of traction and would apply ‘micro braking’ to that wheel to maintain traction. Furthermore, an ‘R.S. Drive’ button enabled the driver to engage sportier engine and gearbox shift mapping, electronic stability and traction control settings, steering assistance and throttle pedal response.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Clio RS 200 included dual front airbags, front head and thorax airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Brakes

The Clio RS 200 had 320 mm by 28 mm ventilated front brake discs and 260 mm by 8 mm solid rear discs. For the Cup variants, the brake calipers were painted red.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing , the related X98 Clio received a five star safety rating which included an 88 per cent adult occupant protection rating and an 89 per cent child occupant protection rating. In the offset crash test, occupant protection was generally good, though chest and lower leg protection were rated as adequate. In the side impact test, maximum points were awarded though, in the more severe pole test, however, chest protection was rated as weak.

Features: Clio RS 200

Standard features for the Renault Clio RS 200 Sport included 17-inch ‘Tibor’ alloy wheels with 205/45 R17 tyres, a four speaker Arkamys sound system with MP3-compatibility, auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB) and Bluetooth connectivity (including audio streaming), navigation system with a seven-inch touchscreen, air conditioning, cruise control with speed limiter, daytime LED running lights, a rear fog light, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, 60:40 split and folding rear seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with gearshift paddles, remote central locking with Renault Smart Key Card (for hands-free entry), power windows, power adjustable and heated mirrors with folding function, a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, rear privacy glass, push-button start, a 12 volt power outlet, trip computer and an immobiliser.

Compared to the Sport, the Clio RS 200 Cup variants had 18-inch ‘Radicale’ alloy wheels with 205/40 R18 tyres, the suspension had 15 per cent stiffer springs and a 3 mm lower ride height, while the electric power-assisted steering had a faster ratio.

The Sport Trophy/Premium and Cup Trophy/Premium were both further equipped with a six speaker Arkamys 3D sound system, Renault’s ‘R-Link’ enhanced satellite navigation system with voice recognition, climate control air conditioning, ‘dark carbon’ leather upholstery, heated front seats, rear parking sensors, a reversing camera and the RenaultSport Monitor 2.0.

Clio RS Monaco GP

In September 2014, the limited-run Clio RS Monaco GP was released. Based on the Clio RS Cup, the Clio RS Monaco GP had gloss black 18-inch ‘Radicale’ alloy wheels, Renault’s connected R-Link tablet, RenaultSport Monitor 2.0, ‘Riveria carbon’ leather upholstery with grey stitching, heated front seats, ‘Technique Grey’ seatbelts, ‘Monaco GP’ branded door sills, grey-bordered floor mats, rear privacy glass and ‘Dark Metal decorative signatures’ for the steering wheel, gear lever knob and gaiter, steering wheel boss and loudspeaker surrounds.

Visually, the Clio RS Monaco GP could be identified by its Pearl White paint finish with contrasting Diamond Blackroof, and gloss black finishes (for the front blade, rear diffuser, side protective strips, door handles, door mirrors and rear spoiler) and ‘Monaco GP’ badge on the lower protective panels.

Only fifty-five (55) Monaco GP vehicles were delivered to Australia.

2015 Clio RS 220 Trophy

The Renault Clio RS 220 Trophy was released in Australia in December 2015. For the Clio RS 220, changes for the MR16DDT engine included:

• A larger turbocharger which provided peak boost pressure of 1.03 bar;
• A revised air intake and exhaust to reduce back-pressure losses;
• The rev limit was increased to 6800 rpm (from 6500 rpm); and,
• Revised mapping.

Like the post-June 2015 Clio RS 200 engine, the Clio RS 220 engine had a Stop&Start function.

For the Clio RS 220 Trophy, the EDC transmission was recalibrated for 50 per cent faster shifts and the steering wheel paddles were revised with 30 per cent shorter travel for a more immediate and responsive feel. As a result, the Clio RS 220 Trophy could accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds.

Other changes for the Clio RS 220 Trophy included lower suspension (by 20 mm at the front and 10 mm at the rear), firmer dampers and 40 per cent stiffer rear springs. For the steering, there was a 10 per cent reduction in the rack ratio from 14.5:1 to 13.2:1 for more direct steering

The Clio RS 220 Trophy was fitted with high-performance Michelin Pilot Super Sport 205/40 R18 tyres on 18-inch ‘Radicale’ wheels with black inserts and diamond-effect facings. Inside, the Clio RS 220 featured leather front sports seats with integrated head rests, heated front seats and an embossed leather trim steering wheel. Furthermore, the gear lever base plate and air-vent inserts were finished in satin-effect chrome rather than the anodised red of the standard Clio RS 200.

Australian deliveries of the Clio RS 220 Trophy were limited to 220 vehicles.

Brochure

• Brochure: Renault X98 Clio RS 200 Turbo (December 2013)
• Brochure: Renault X98 Clio RS 200 Turbo (November 2014)
• Brochure: Renault X98 Clio RS 200 and RS 220 Trophy (November 2015)

Related links

• Press kit: Renault X98 Clio RS 200 Turbo (December 2013)
• Specifications: Renault X98 Clio RS 200 Monaco GP (September 2014)

Review: Renault X98.II Clio RS (2017-19)

Overview

Production of the Renault X98 Phase II (X98.II) Clio RS commenced in August 2016 and it was officially released in Australia in August 2017. For Australia, the X98.II Clio RS range initially consisted of Sport and Cup variants, with the Trophy following in October 2017.

Visually, the X98.II Clio RS could be identified by its redesigned front bumper and multi-faceted ‘R.S. Vision’ LED lighting signature which provided three power intensities and three different functionalities: fog/cornering lights, high beam and low beam. According to Renault, ‘R.S. Vision’ enhanced night-time visibility by co-ordinating the fog lights, cornering lights, side lights and long-range headlights.

Features: Renault Clio RS Sport and Cup

For the Renault X98 Phase II Clio RS, standard features were extended to include a digital radio tuner (DAB), climate control air conditioning, LED headlights (Renault’s ‘R.S. Vision’), front fog lights, front parking sensors and a tyre pressure warning system.

For a complete list of features, please refer to the brochure below.

Renault X98 Phase II Clio RS Trophy

The Renault X98 Phase II Clio RS Trophy was released in Australia in October 2017. Compared to the X98 Phase I Clio RS Trophy that was introduced in 2015, the X98 Phase II Clio RS Trophy had the same engine, lowered chassis, stiffer springs and dampers, recalibrated EDC transmission and faster steering ratio. However, the X98 Phase II Clio RS Trophy was further equipped with:

• A Bose premium sound system with seven high-performance speakers (two dashboard tweeters, two woofers in the front doors, two speakers in the rear doors and a Richbass woofer in the boot) with a digital amplifier; and,
• A titanium Akrapovic exhaust system.

Renault Clio RS 18

Named after the Renault Sport Formula One Team’s 2018 car, the limited edition Renault Clio RS 18 was released in Australia in March 2018. Based on the Renault Clio RS 220 EDC Trophy, the Renault Clio RS 18 could be identified by its Deep Black paint finish, Liquid Yellow highlights (for the front blade, side mouldings and wheel centre caps), ‘R.S. 18’ badging on the front doors, grey decals and RS double-diamond logo on the roof. Inside, the Renault Clio RS 18 had a numbered ‘R.S.’ branded door sill, Alcantara/leather-trimmed steering wheel, ‘carbon fibre-effect’ air vent surrounds and ‘Renault Sport’ carpet mats. The Renault Clio RS 18 had a recommended retail price of $39,990 and Australian deliveries were limited to 10 vehicles.

Brochure

• Brochure: Renault X98 Phase II Clio RS (July 2017)

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Renault X98 Clio

Review: Renault X65.I Clio RS (2001)

Overview

Released in May 2001, the Renault X65 Phase I (X65.I) Clio RS – short for Renault Sport – was a light, three-door hatchback. Manufactured in Flins, France, the front-wheel drive X65.I Clio RS 172 was so-called because its 2.0-litre F4R engine produced peak power of 172 brake horsepower. Furthermore, the Clio RS 172 was fitted with close-ratio JC5-type five-speed manual transmission.

F4R engine

The F4R 2.0-litre engine – as used in the J64 Scenic and J64 Scenic RX4 – had a cast iron block, an aluminium cylinder head, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and two-position inlet valve timing. For the Clio RS, however, the F4R engine had a modified air intake manifold, machined cylinder head ducts, revised valve timing, Nimonic (75 per cent nickel, 25 per cent chrome and titanium) valves for greater resistance to high temperatures, platinum electrode spark plugs rated for 120,000 km, a tubular exhaust manifold to reduce exhaust back pressure and a compression ratio of 11.2:1. 

Dimensions and suspension

The X65.I Clio RS was 3773 mm long, 1670 mm wide, 1417 mm tall and had a 2472 mm long wheelbase.

The Clio RS had MacPherson strut front suspension, negative offset with lower wishbones and anti-sway bars, coil springs and telescopic hydraulic shock absorbers. The rear suspension consisted of an H-style (or torsion beam) rear axle with coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers and anti-sway bars.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the X65.I Clio RS included dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters and outer rear seatbelts with pretensioners.

Euro NCAP crash testing

In Euro NCAP crash testing , a 2000 X65.I Clio five-door hatchback – on which the Clio RS was based – received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 26 when fitted with dual front airbags (but not front side airbags). In the frontal offset impact test, the driver’s chest and lower left leg were subjected to high loads. In the side impact test, there was a small risk of injury to the abdomen.

Features

Standard features for the Renault Clio RS 172 included 15-inch alloy wheels with 195/50 R15 tyres, a four speaker sound system with CD player, air conditioning with pollen filter, contoured sports seats with leather and Alcantara upholstery, front fog lights, a suede and leather trimmed steering wheel with audio controls, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, driver’s seat height and lumbar adjustment, a tilt adjustable steering column, an aluminium gearshift knob, drilled aluminium pedals, a heat-reflective windscreen and an immobiliser.

Review: Renault X65.II Clio RS (2001-04)

Overview

Released in December 2001, the Renault X65 Series II (X65.II) Clio RS introduced revised styling and additional equipment. Visually, the X65.II Clio RS could be identified by its new head and tail-lights, mesh grille (with three horizontal bars, inset ellipses and diamond-shaped Renault badge), smoothed bumpers, creased bonnet and body-coloured protective mouldings. Inside, there were higher quality materials, a lower dashboard and instrument cluster housed in a double-rounded binnacle.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Renault X65.II Clio RS was upgraded with anti-submarining front seats and outer rear seatbelts with load limiters. From May 2003, the Clio RS was fitted with electronic stability control and traction control as standard.

Features

Compared to its X65.I predecessor, the X65.II Clio RS featured a six speaker sound system (previously four), climate control air conditioning, six-disc CD player, xenon headlights with washers, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers.

Review: Renault X65.III Clio RS (2004-06)

Overview

Released in September 2004, the Renault X65 Phase III (X65.III) Clio RS introduced the 182 variant, powered by a more powerful 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. The range was also expanded, with the Clio RS 182 range consisting of standard and Cup editions. In January 2005, a limited-run Cup F1 Team Edition was released.

F4R engine

Changes for the 2.0-litre engine included a new ‘3Y’ exhaust manifold (replacing the former ‘4-into-1’ configuration) for improved gas outflow, a lower-resistance metallic catalyst with two parallel-mounted silencers and new calibration of the fuel injection and inlet camshaft variator. The compression ratio was also reduced to 11.0:1.

Dimensions and suspension

Compared to its X65.II predecessor, the wheelbase for the X65.III Clio RS was extended by 13 mm (to 2485 mm), while front and rear track were widened by 12 mm and 16 mm, respectively. For the suspension, spring stiffness was increased by 10 per cent and the diameter of the rear anti-roll bar was increased by 2 mm (to 24 mm) for a 12 per cent increase in stiffness.

Features

Compared to its X65.II predecessor, standard features for the X65.III Clio RS 182 were extended to include 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/45 R16 Michelin Exalto tyres, cruise control (with speed limiter) and a chilled glovebox. The Cup edition was differentiated by its firmer suspension, lowered ride height and charcoal coloured alloy wheels.

2005 Renault Clio RS Cup F1 Team Edition

In January 2005, a limited-run Cup F1 Team Edition was released; it was distinguished by its Gordini blue paint with white racing stripes, rear spoiler and signed plaque.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Renault X65 Clio

Recalls: Renault X65 Clio RS

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Renault X65 Clio RS

No recall information is available for the Renault X65 Clio RS. To search for recalls of Renault models, please visit Product Safety Recalls Australia: Renault.

Problems and faults: Renault X65 Clio RS

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Renault X65 Clio RS

• If the Renault X65 Clio RS engine misfires, does not run on all cylinders or runs rough, the ignition coils may need to be replaced – this is a common problem.
• Manual transmissions are susceptible to wearing their top casing – this may necessitate a rebuild.
• For three door models, the clips holding the power windows in place can pop out – this can cause the window to rise outside of the doorframe and stretch the regulator cables.
• The primary bonnet catch must be adequately greased so that it latches. If not, and the secondary plastic catch fails, the bonnet may lift when driving and strike the windscreen.
• The coil springs – front and rear – were susceptible to breaking.

Recalls: Renault X85 Clio RS

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Renault X85 Clio RS

No recall information is available for the Renault X85 Clio RS. To search for recalls of Renault models, please visit Product Safety Recalls Australia: Renault.

Problems and faults: Renault X85 Clio RS

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

F4R engine

The Clio RS’ F4R engine is widely regarded as durable, but is sensitive to cam timing – it is recommended that cambelts be changed by mechanics familiar with this procedure. Furthermore, the cambelt and auxiliary belt need to be replaced every 115,000 kilometres or five years (whichever comes first).

The exhaust manifolds for the Renault X85 Clio RS’s F4R engine are susceptible to cracking.

Transmission

In late 2007, changes were made to the Renault X85 Clio RS’s manual transmission to overcome the problem of the gearbox crunching in second and third gears. Since the Clio RS 197 was released in Australia in August 2008, Australian-delivered vehicles do not have this problem.

The synchromesh within the manual transmission wears over time; while third and fourth gears are most commonly affected, second gear may also experience difficulties. If the synchros are worn, the only cost-effective solution is to replace transmission.

Suspension

A knocking noise from the Clio RS’ front suspension may be due to a worn lower ball joint. While Renault recommends that the entire hub carrier be replaced, it can be fixed by just replacing the ball joint.

The rear shock absorbers are susceptible to leaking.

Brakes

The four-piston Brembo brake calipers are susceptible to seizing. For this reason, it is recommended that the calipers be stripped and cleaned once a year.

Steering

The steering rack for the Clio RS is susceptible to failure, producing whining or clunking noises. To test, the driver should turn the steering wheel from lock to lock when parked or when driving at walking pace.

Interior

• Where fitted, the Recaro seats are susceptible to worn bolsters on the right hand side.
• A rattle from the rear of the Clio RS may be due to a misaligned boot hatch which allows the tailgate to move as the car is driven.

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Renault X98 Clio RS

2013-14 Renault X98 Clio RS: brake hoses and clips

In November 2014, a recall was issued for Renault X98 Clio vehicles that were manufactured prior to 24 July 2014. In these vehicles, the front brake hoses may have been fitted incorrectly and the wrong rear brake retaining clips may have been fitted. Incorrect fitting of the brake hoses may result in reduced braking capacity and handling ability under heavy braking, increasing the risk of a collision. The recalled vehicles had VINs in the range VF15R5A0HD0677993 to VF15R5A0HE0699276, though not all vehicles in this range were to be recalled (PRA 2014/14449).

2013-16 Renault X98 Clio RS: part of rear spoiler may detach

In April 2020, recall campaign 0C6J was issued for Renault X98 Clio RS vehicles that were available for sale in Australia from 1 October 2013 to 31 August 2016. For these vehicles, the upper part of the rear spoiler may detach from the vehicle. If this occurred, the spoiler could collide with other vehicles or cause them to take evasive action, increased the risk of injury to road users. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2020/18233.

2013-16 Renault X98 Clio RS: front windscreen wipers may fail

In April 2020, recall campaign 0C66 was issued for Renault X98 Clio RS vehicles that were available for sale in Australia from 1 August 2013 to 31 December 2016. In these vehicles, the linkage between the front windscreen wipers and the motor may not have been secured in accordance with required specifications – this could cause the front windscreen wipers to fail. If this occurred, rain could obscure the driver’s vision and this increased the risk of a collision. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2020/18223.

Problems and faults: Renault X98 Clio RS

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Renault X98 Clio RS

No troubleshooting information is currently available for the Renault X98 Clio RS.

Released in May 2001, the Renault X65 Phase I (X65.I) Clio RS – short for Renault Sport – was a light, three-door hatchback. Manufactured in Flins, France, the front-wheel drive X65.I Clio RS 172 was so-called because its 2.0-litre F4R engine produced peak power of 172 brake horsepower. Furthermore, the Clio RS 172 was fitted with close-ratio JC5-type five-speed manual transmission… Read full Renault X65 Clio RS review

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Images: Renault X65.II Clio RS (2001-04)

Released in December 2001, the Renault X65 Series II (X65.II) Clio RS introduced revised styling and additional equipment. The Reanult X65.II Clio RS could be identified by its new head and tail-lights, mesh grille (with three horizontal bars, inset ellipses and diamond-shaped Renault badge), smoothed bumpers, creased bonnet and body-coloured protective mouldings. Inside, there were higher quality materials, a lower dashboard and instrument cluster housed in a double-rounded binnacle.

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Images: Renault X65.III Clio RS (2004-06)

Released in September 2004, the Renault X65 Phase III (X65.III) Clio RS introduced the 182 variant, powered by a more powerful 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. The range was also expanded, with the Clio RS 182 range consisting of standard and Cup editions. In January 2005, a limited-run Clio RS Cup F1 Team Edition was released.

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Released in August 2008, the Renault X85 Phase I (X85.I) Clio RS was a three-door, hot hatch. Manufactured in Flins, France, the Clio range consisted solely of the 197 variant, which was powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine – producing peak power of 197 brake horsepower – and mated to a six-speed manual transmission. In February 2009, the F1 Team R27 edition was released… Read full Renault X85 Clio RS review

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Images: Renault X85.II Clio RS (2010-13)

Released in March 2010, the Renault X85 Phase II (X85.II) Clio RS range consisted of the 200 variant, reflecting its slightly higher engine outputs. The Renault X85.II Clio RS 200 also had improved low-rev response and improved equipment levels, while the ‘Cup’ suspension settings – with stiffer springs and shock absorbers – were standard across the range.

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Released in December 2013, the Renault X98 Phase I Clio RS 200 was a light, five-door hatchback. Manufactured in Dieppe, France, the front-wheel drive Clio RS 200 Turbo was powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed double clutch transmission. The Clio RS 200 range initially consisted of the Sport, Cup, Sport Trophy and Cup Trophy; in 2014, however, the Sport Trophy and Cup Trophy were replaced by the Sport Premium and Cup Premium… Read full Renault X98 Clio RS review

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Images: Renault X98.II Clio RS (2017-19)

Production of the Renault X98 Phase II (X98.II) Clio RS commenced in August 2016 and it was officially released in Australia in August 2017. For Australia, the X98.II Clio RS range consisted of Sport and Cup variants, though AustralianCar.Reviews expects a Trophy variant to follow in late 2017 or early 2018. Visually, the X98.II Clio RS could be identified by its redesigned front bumper and multi-faceted ‘R.S. Vision’ LED lighting signature which provided three power intensities and three different functionalities: fog/cornering lights, high beam and low beam. According to Renault, ‘R.S. Vision’ enhanced night-time visibility by co-ordinating the fog lights, cornering lights, side lights and long-range headlights.

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Euro NCAP: Renault X85 Clio crash testing

In Euro NCAP crash testing, 2005 three-door Clio hatchback – fitted with a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine – received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 32.67 out of 37. For more information about this testing, please see the Euro NCAP website. Videos are provided with the permission of Euro NCAP.

Drive.com.au: Renault X85.I Clio RS 197 at Wakefield Park

Note

Please note that these videos are applicable to vehicles as they are supplied to their respective markets. As such, the features, prices and performance of the vehicles in these videos may differ from those which are supplied in Australia.

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