The Renault Clio RS 220 Trophy Is Here, But There's Still No Manual Option

Amongst all the Koeningseggs, Lamborghinis and even the new Honda Civic Type-R at the Geneva motor show, it’d be easy for this new Renault Clio RS 220 Trophy to slip by unnoticed. However, we love a good hot hatch here at CT Towers, and if there’s a quicker, fettled version of the Clio RS around, we’re all ears.

But first, we need to get the disappointment out of the way: as you can see from the interior image below, it’s still very much rocking a dual-clutch automatic gearbox. And there’s no manual option. Boo.

As much as I think plenty of cars are well-suited to a dual-clutch auto ‘box, I’m adamant that a small quick hatch like the Clio RS isn’t one of them. But before you close this tab in disgust, give this thing a chance, as it could shape up to be a fine alternative to the Ford Fiesta ST and the new Peugeot 208 GTI 30th Anniversary.

Firstly, that controversial auto box has been heavily revised. Its lengthy shifts should be a thing of the past, as in ‘Normal’ and ‘Sport’ modes the changes are now 40 per cent faster, and 50 per cent faster in ‘Race’ mode. It allows for earlier downshifts, and the travel of the paddles themselves has been reduced by 30 per cent “for more immediate changes.”

The gearbox has more power going through it, too, thanks to a bigger turbo, uprated air intake a new exhaust. The 1.6-litre turbocharged engine’s poke is up from 197bhp to 217bhp (or 220hp, hence the name). It’s also torquier, with the 177lb ft figure now bumped up to 192, while the rev limit has been upped from 6500rpm to 6800.

On the chassis front, the suspension has been lowered by 20mm at the front and 10mm at the back compared to the regular RS, with firmer shock absorbers and stiffer springs now in use. The steering is quicker, and finally, the 18-inch alloys are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport rubber.

Want one? A premium of around £2000 over the regular Clio RS is expected. Considering the changes present - and the fact that’ll probably hold its value better, being a “numbered special edition” - that seems like pretty decent value. It’ll go on sale in Europe this June.