Currently reading: Limited-run Renault Clio RS 18 launched with 220 Trophy chassis

Just 15 examples of Renault Sport’s new 220 Trophy-based hot hatch will come to the UK

Renault Sport is producing just 15 right-hand-drive examples of its Renault Clio RS 18 Limited Edition, which builds on the 220 Trophy with Formula 1-inspired additions.

The UK version of the RS 18 is on sale from 1 May, with deliveries kicking off in mid-June. It comes after sales of the previously left-hand-drive-only model on the Continent surpassed expectations.

The limited-run hot hatch receives a Deep Black paint finish with Liquid Yellow accents to mimic the livery of Renault’s RS 18 F1 racer.

276bhp Renault Megane RS hot hatch on sale from £27,495

Renault clio r

Black has been applied to the car’s Renault diamonds, RS logo and rear diffuser, while the front blade, side skirts and wheel centre caps are yellow. Each car also gets a numbered kick plate, Alcantara and leather-wrapped steering wheel and carbonfibre-effect air vent surrounds.

Based on the 220 Trophy, the RS 18 uses the same turbocharged 1.6-litre engine, producing 217bhp and 207lb ft of torque. Drive is sent through the same six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, but it is said to have 50% quicker responses than the normal RS Clio's.

Straight-line performance remains unchanged, with a 0-62mph time of 6.6sec and a top speed of 146mph.

Renault clio r

Also carried over from the Trophy is an Akrapovič sports exhaust system, firmer springs and a 40% stiffer rear twist beam. The model’s bespoke dampers are also retained without adjustment.

Pricing for the RS 18 starts at £24,295, which is £1300 more than the 220 Trophy.

Advertisement

Read our review

Car review

New Renaultsport hot hatch has sophistication, but can it excite when direct rivals like the Ford Fiesta ST have perfected the formula?

Back to top

Join our WhatsApp community and be the first to read about the latest news and reviews wowing the car world. Our community is the best, easiest and most direct place to tap into the minds of Autocar, and if you join you’ll also be treated to unique WhatsApp content. You can leave at any time after joining - check our full privacy policy here.