Renault Clio Cup (2008) CAR review

The Clio Renaultsport Cup is the third Clio to receive the ‘Cup’ moniker. Following in the wheel tracks and skidmarks of the deeply entertaining Clio II 172 Cup and 182 Cup, the Clio Renaultsport 197 Cup features the same suspension set-up as the limited edition Clio 197 R27, taller 5th and 6th gear ratios and optional air conditioning.

So, it’s identical to the Renault Clio 197 F1 Team R27 then?

Pretty much. The suspension tweaks are the same, which means stiffer springs (27 percent at the front and 30 percent at the rear) and stiffer dampers (by 10 percent). The ride height drop of 7mm is also identical to the R27.

However, the R27 didn’t feature the much-needed taller 5th and 6th gear ratios (raised from 16.1mph/1000rpm to 17.1 in 5th and from 18.9mph/1000rpm to 20.5 in 6th) – a tweak that is now standard on the ‘normal’ Clio Renaultsport 197.

I see that white is the new black?

Yep, and that’s no bad thing as far as we’re concerned. The Clio Cup, especially in white (an option), looks fabulous matched to the satin black Speedline wheels – again an option.

And if you’re thinking there’s a theme developing here, you’re right. All the cool stuff (white paint, satin Speedlines, even the excellent lightweight Renaultsport Recaro seats) are options. To us, the Clio isn’t a ‘Cup’ unless these items are fitted as standard. It’s a pity they’re not.

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