Renault presents the new Clio RS R3T

Presented in 2006, Clio RS R3 marked the history of Renault Sports in rally. Offering performance comparable to the Super 1600 at a cost halved, this car has won hundreds of victories and dozens of titles around the world. The marketing of 373 kits underlines the success encountered by Renault Sport Technologies with its first model meeting FIA R3 regulations.

Since then, the rally range has continued to grow with Twingo RS R2 Evo, Twingo RS R1 and Mégane RS N4? Next year, it will be the turn of the Clio RS R3T to enter the scene. Taking the Clio RS 200 EDC as a basis, unanimously recognized for its performance and versatility on the road, Clio RS R3T is intended to open new horizons for crews.

The Clio RS 1618 EDC's 3 cc turbocharged engine is specifically adapted for competition by Renault Sport engineers. The kit includes a six-speed sequential gearbox with manual control, paddles on the steering wheel will be offered as an option on the asphalt version. Renault Sport Technologies relies on recognized suppliers to offer a coherent and reliable package to its customers: Sadev for the gearbox, Sachs for the shock absorbers, PFC for the brakes and Cosworth for the electronic management.

“With Clio RS R3T, our objective is to offer a vehicle that is efficient, reliable and usable on all surfaces for a lower operating cost than the product replaced”, underlines Arnaud Boulanger, Competition Director of Renault Sport Technologies. “The success experienced by the first generation of Clio RS R3 has reassured us in the idea that this formula is particularly suited to the demands of our customers. This category has allowed Renault Sport to establish itself and shine in many markets, including outside Europe with cars present in Asia-Pacific, Latin America and Oceania. The first tests are promising and a long development campaign is planned before approval of the kit. In the hands of many drivers, Clio RS R3T will drive for more than ten weeks on dirt and asphalt to determine the best options. »

Approval is scheduled for the beginning of the second half of 2014. Click on this link to see photos of the new Renault Clio RS R3T.