The Renault Clio IV (Phase I) 1.6 (200 Hp) RS Automatic: A European Hot Hatch Icon
The Renault Clio IV (Phase I) 1.6 (200 Hp) RS Automatic represents a significant evolution in Renault Sport’s acclaimed line of performance-oriented compact cars. Launched in 2013 as part of the fourth-generation Clio lineup, this specific variant marked a departure from its predecessors by exclusively featuring a turbocharged engine paired with an automatic transmission. While not officially sold in the United States market, the Clio RS has long been a benchmark in Europe’s highly competitive “hot hatch” segment, celebrated for its agile handling, spirited performance, and everyday usability. The Phase I model, produced from 2013 to 2016, laid the groundwork for a new era of Renault Sport vehicles, blending advanced technology with accessible performance.
Engineering and Performance of the Renault Clio IV (Phase I)
Powertrain and Drivetrain
At the heart of the Renault Clio IV (Phase I) RS Automatic lies a potent 1.6-liter (1618 cm³) inline four-cylinder engine, designated by the code M5M 400. This unit delivers a formidable 200 horsepower at 6000 rpm, translating to an impressive power-per-liter output of 123.6 Hp/l. Torque figures are equally compelling, with 177.01 lb.-ft. (240 Nm) available from a low 1750 rpm, ensuring brisk acceleration and strong in-gear pull. The engine’s advanced architecture includes direct fuel injection, a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, and a turbocharger with an intercooler, all contributing to its responsive character and efficiency. Its compression ratio stands at 9.5:1, balancing performance with reliability.
A notable feature of this generation Clio RS was the exclusive adoption of a 6-speed automatic transmission. This marked a significant shift for Renault Sport, which had previously championed manual gearboxes in its performance models. The automatic unit, coupled with a front-wheel-drive architecture, was designed to provide quick shifts and optimize power delivery, catering to a broader audience while still aiming to deliver an engaging driving experience. The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio is an impressive 6 kg/Hp (166.1 Hp/tonne), underscoring its performance credentials, while the weight-to-torque ratio sits at 5 kg/Nm (199.3 Nm/tonne).
Performance Metrics and Fuel Economy
The Clio IV RS is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 142.92 mph (230 km/h), making it one of the quickest vehicles in its class. Despite its performance focus, Renault engineered the Clio RS to achieve reasonable fuel economy for a hot hatch. The combined fuel consumption is rated at 37.3 US mpg (6.3 l/100 km), with urban consumption at 29 US mpg (8.1 l/100 km) and extra-urban at 46.1 US mpg (5.1 l/100 km). These figures, combined with its Euro 5 emission standard compliance, highlight a commitment to balancing power with environmental considerations for its time. The fuel tank capacity is 11.89 US gallons (45 liters), providing a decent range for spirited driving or daily commutes.
Design and Features
Exterior and Interior Design
The Renault Clio IV (Phase I) RS Automatic is offered exclusively as a 5-door hatchback, a practical choice that doesn’t compromise its sporty aesthetics. Its design is characterized by aggressive styling cues typical of a Renault Sport model, including a distinctive front fascia, wider fenders, and specific RS badging. The overall dimensions are compact yet purposeful: 159.92 inches (4062 mm) in length, 68.19 inches (1732 mm) in width, and 57.01 inches (1448 mm) in height. The wheelbase measures 101.93 inches (2589 mm), contributing to its nimble handling.
Inside, the Clio RS provides seating for five occupants. The cabin is designed to blend sporty touches with modern functionality. While specific interior features vary by trim, RS models typically include bolstered seats, a sport steering wheel, and unique trim accents. The trunk space offers a practical 10.59 cu. ft. (300 liters), which is competitive for its segment, making it suitable for daily use as well as weekend excursions.
Chassis, Suspension, and Braking
The chassis of the Clio IV RS is engineered for dynamic driving. It features an independent McPherson type front suspension, renowned for its balance of ride comfort and handling precision. The rear employs a semi-independent setup with coil springs, carefully tuned to complement the front and provide predictable road holding. Stopping power is handled by ventilated disc brakes on both the front and rear axles, ensuring strong and consistent braking performance under demanding conditions. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking.
Steering is managed by an electric power steering system with a rack and pinion setup, offering precise feedback and ease of maneuverability, especially in urban environments. The minimum turning circle is 34.78 feet (10.6 meters). The car rides on 17-inch wheel rims, shod with 205/45 R17 tires, providing ample grip and contributing to the car’s athletic stance. The kerb weight of the vehicle is 2654.37 lbs (1204 kg), highlighting its lightweight construction for improved agility.
Technical Specifications: Renault Clio IV (Phase I) 1.6 (200 Hp) RS Automatic
| Category | Specification | Value |
|---|---|---|
| General Information | ||
| Brand | Renault | |
| Model | Clio | |
| Generation | Clio IV (Phase I) | |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (200 Hp) RS Automatic | |
| Production Start | 2013 | |
| Production End | 2016 | |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion Engine | |
| Body Type | Hatchback | |
| Seats | 5 | |
| Doors | 5 | |
| Performance Specifications | ||
| Fuel Consumption (Urban) | 29 US mpg (8.1 l/100 km) | |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban) | 46.1 US mpg (5.1 l/100 km) | |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 37.3 US mpg (6.3 l/100 km) | |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
| Maximum Speed | 142.92 mph (230 km/h) | |
| Emission Standard | Euro 5 | |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 6 kg/Hp (166.1 Hp/tonne) | |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 5 kg/Nm (199.3 Nm/tonne) | |
| Engine Specifications | ||
| Power | 200 Hp @ 6000 rpm | |
| Power per Liter | 123.6 Hp/l | |
| Torque | 177.01 lb.-ft. (240 Nm) @ 1750 rpm | |
| Engine Layout | Front, Transverse | |
| Engine Model/Code | M5M 400 | |
| Engine Displacement | 1.6 liters (1618 cm³ / 98.74 cu. in.) | |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 | |
| Engine Configuration | Inline | |
| Cylinder Bore | 3.14 in. (79.7 mm) | |
| Piston Stroke | 3.19 in. (81.1 mm) | |
| Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 | |
| Fuel Injection System | Direct Injection | |
| Engine Aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler | |
| Valvetrain | DOHC | |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 4.76 US qt (4.5 l) | |
| Coolant Capacity | 8.45 US qt (8 l) | |
| Dimensions, Volume, and Weights | ||
| Kerb Weight | 2654.37 lbs (1204 kg) | |
| Trunk (Boot) Space (Minimum) | 10.59 cu. ft. (300 l) | |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 11.89 US gal (45 l) | |
| Length | 159.92 in. (4062 mm) | |
| Width | 68.19 in. (1732 mm) | |
| Height | 57.01 in. (1448 mm) | |
| Wheelbase | 101.93 in. (2589 mm) | |
| Front Track | 59.29 in. (1506 mm) | |
| Rear Track | 59.29 in. (1506 mm) | |
| Minimum Turning Circle | 34.78 ft. (10.6 m) | |
| Drivetrain, Brakes, and Suspension | ||
| Drivetrain Architecture | Internal Combustion Engine drives front wheels | |
| Drive Wheel | Front Wheel Drive | |
| Gearbox Type | 6-speed Automatic Transmission | |
| Front Suspension | Independent, McPherson Type | |
| Rear Suspension | Semi-independent, Coil Spring | |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated Discs | |
| Rear Brakes | Ventilated Discs | |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) | |
| Steering Type | Steering Rack and Pinion | |
| Power Steering | Electric Steering | |
| Tires Size | 205/45 R17 | |
| Wheel Rims Size | 17 inches | |
Legacy and Market Impact
The Renault Clio IV (Phase I) 1.6 (200 Hp) RS Automatic holds a significant, albeit sometimes controversial, place in the lineage of Renault Sport. For many enthusiasts, the Clio RS models before it were revered for their naturally aspirated engines and purist-focused manual transmissions, offering a raw and engaging driving experience. The fourth-generation model, with its turbocharged engine and mandatory dual-clutch automatic gearbox, represented a strategic shift for Renault Sport, aiming for broader appeal and better compliance with evolving emission standards.
Despite the initial skepticism from some purists, the Clio IV RS quickly established itself as a highly capable and competitive hot hatch in the European market. Its blend of everyday usability, thanks to its five-door configuration and automatic transmission, combined with genuine performance credentials, allowed it to carve out a strong niche. It competed fiercely with rivals such as the Ford Fiesta ST, Peugeot 208 GTi, and Volkswagen Polo GTI, often being praised for its sharp handling, direct steering, and potent engine.
The car’s reputation for being a fun-to-drive, practical performance vehicle cemented its status as a key player in the European B-segment hot hatch scene during its production run from 2013 to 2016. While it may not have offered the same visceral, analogue experience as its predecessors, the Clio IV RS showcased Renault Sport’s ability to adapt to modern automotive trends without sacrificing too much of its core performance DNA. Its impact was in demonstrating that a hot hatch could be both thrilling and refined, setting a new direction for future performance compacts. The Renault Clio IV (Phase I) remains a respected and sought-after model for those who appreciate a blend of modern technology and spirited driving in a compact package.
