More pep in Clio’s step
GT-Line French hatch gets a power boost and racier looks
RENAULT South Africa has put some pep in its Clio’s step with a new GT-Line derivative that will serve as the most performance oriented model until the super-racy RS is launched next month.
When the facelifted (Phase 2 in Renault speak) Clio was launched last November, the original 2015 GT-Line and its 898cc three-cylinder turbo with 66kW and 150Nm was dropped from the range. Now it’s back with the same 88kW 1.2 turbo as the Expression automatic, but with torque pumped up slightly from 190Nm to 205. Renault claims 0-100km/h happens in nine seconds flat with a max speed of 199km/h, and while these figures fall short of genuine RenaultSport territory, the GT-Line’s boosted outputs are a welcome addition to the Clio’s sporty little chassis.
I drove the new model at its Joburg-based press launch last week, and while most of the 300km test route comprised long, straight East Rand roads it was immediately evident that this engine, in this state of tune, is a perfect match for the 1090kg hatchback. It’s an eager revver, and after the tiniest hint of turbolag it builds boost in a smooth, linear surge. Overtaking long sputtering trucks and farmland workhorse bakkies was a breeze.
The GT-Line comes with a sixspeed manual gearbox only (a dual-clutch auto is a later possibility), and it too suits this warmed-up compact hatch to a tee. The shift action is short and precise, and its RS-derived spherical aluminium gear knob transmits some RenaultSport influence directly to the palm of your hand.
The RS treatment continues with a leather steering wheel and deep bucket seats also sourced from Renault’s performance division. The seats are upholstered in cloth, but come with unique blue stitching, centre stripes and GT-Line logos embroidered on the headrests.
Exterior additions include a set of 17” alloys finished in Titanium Grey with matching mirror caps, door strips and boot lid lip. The bumpers are also GT-Line specific with bigger air inlets and foglight surrounds at the front and a Titanium Grey diffuser at the back. A chrome tailpipe finishes the look.
Standard fare includes cruise control, automatic lights and wipers, central locking, air conditioning, and a colour touchscreen with navigation. Prices include 5-year/150 000km warranties and 3-year/45 000km service plans. CLIO PRICES: Clio 66kW Authentique manual - R206 900 Clio 66kW Expression manual - R226 900 Clio 66kW Dynamique manual - 244 900 Clio 88kW Expression EDC auto - 264 900 Clio 88kW GT-Line manual