With Clio R.S. R3, available in Access and Maxi versions, Renault Sport established itself as one of the leading brands in the two-wheel drive categories. Some 380 units of this front-wheel drive car, with its 2.0-litre normally-aspirated engine, have been sold in Europe, South America, Asia and Oceania.

Over the last year or so, this solid experience has been used to design a new generation model. Recent changes in the FIA regulations have led to the development of innovative solutions to boost the competitiveness and safety of the car marketed by Renault Sport Technologies in the R3 category.

Clio R.S. 200 EDC lies at the heart of this new model devoted to road-racing events. Developed by Renault Sport Technologies with many features inspired by the world of motor racing, the market leader in compact sports cars is able to re-use these innovations to meet the demands of rallying.

Renault Sport Technologies’ teams were able to make use of solutions taken from the production model to develop Clio R3T. Reliability, performance and cost were all central to the design and development process.

Although the profile of Clio R.S. 200 EDC remains unchanged for regulatory reasons, this rally version has been specifically devised for racing. Sitting firmly on its 17-inch (tarmac) or 15-inch (gravel) wheels, Clio R3T shows off its assets with exclusive front and rear suspension systems. Featuring new adjustable dampers and a wide range of settings, every driver is able to find the balance needed to be competitive on all surfaces.

Under the bonnet, Clio R.S. 200 EDC’s 1.6-litre turbo-charged engine has been given special treatment in order to deliver unrivalled performances. Renault Sport Technologies’ engineers have worked their magic on the engine block, meaning it now develops a hefty 242hp and delivers an outstanding 480Nm of torque. Services are now scheduled every 4,000 kilometres of stages, which is a category record for running time. The six-speed sequential gearbox can be controlled by steering wheel- mounted paddles (upcoming option).

The kit is made up of Clio R.S. 200 EDC parts and specific components required for the assembly of Clio R3T, including the engine which is assembled by one of Renault Sport Technologies’ partners. Clio R3T is the second racing model to be developed on the base of Clio R.S. 200 EDC after Clio Cup, intended for circuit racing.

Jukka Korhonen and Marko Salminen will have the privilege of giving the Renault Clio R3T its very first run-out as a zero car, at this weekend’s Scottish Rally. Second in the event last year, the Finnish duo will be putting the solidity of Renault Sport Technologies’ latest model to the test on the twisting, bumpy roads of Dumfries and Galloway.

For all the details of the Renault Clio R3T, click here !