Renault has officially unveiled the Clio RS 220 Trophy, a more focused version of the standard Clio RS that gets 10 percent more power, a quicker EDC transmission and a lower and stiffer Trophy chassis.
The 2.0-liter 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine has received 20 extra ponies for a total of 220PS (217hp), with maximum torque also rising to 260Nm (a gain of 20Nm). Additionally, a torque boost function in fourth and fifth gears raises peak torque by 40Nm to 280Nm.
The power increase was possible thanks to revised engine mapping, a larger turbo, a new air intake and a revised exhaust system, with the engine’s rev limit being pushed further to 6,800 rpm (from 6,500 rpm).
An equally important update regards the EDC dual-clutch transmission, which shifts gears up to 40 percent faster in ‘Normal’ and ‘Sport’ modes and 50 percent faster in ‘Race’ mode thanks to software recalibration. Furthermore, RenaultSport engineers have reduced steering wheel paddle travel by 30 percent for more immediate changes.
Other changes include the possibility of earlier downshifts, for example under heavy braking on track, as well as a more flexible ‘Sport’ mode with gearshift change patterns more reactive to current driving style.
The third important update is the adoption of the Trophy chassis, which lowers the car by 20mm at the front and 10mm at the rear. The Clio RS 220 Trophy also gains firmer shock absorbers and revised springs (40 percent stiffer at the rear). Changes were also made to the steering, which gets a new, faster rack that is said to improve precision.
From a styling point of view, the Renault Clio RS 220 Trophy distinguishes itself from regular Clio RS models thanks to the 18-inch ‘Radical’ wheels with black inserts and diamond-effect facings, ‘Trophy’ badging on the front blade, door moldings and individually-numbered door sills.
There’s also a new Frost White matt body color with gloss black roof and rear spoiler added to the range alongside Glacier White, Diamond Black, Flame Red and Liquid Yellow.
The Clio RS 220 Trophy will go on sale from June in Europe and will arrive later on other markets as well.
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