Renault Clio Renaultsport (01-05) - Review

Review by Parkers on
Hot hatch buyers haven't had it so good since the 1980s. Every manufacturer worth their salt has a performance version of their supermini or small hatch. This is Renault's and it's one of the best in the business. The 172 was the original car - launched in 2001 - and was a very accomplished hot-hatch offering focused performance at a reasonable price. A Cup version was launched in 2002 aimed at serious driving enthusiasts who wanted a car, without frills or luxuries, that they could throw around a race track. 2003 saw the model receive 10 bhp extra and a name change to 182. And as a final flourish, Renault launched a 'Trophy' model in mid 2005. Just 500 of these cars were available with sports suspension and Recaro bucket seats.
3.5 out of 5

Other Renault reviews

3 out of 5

Buying used

Could well have served time on track or at the very least will have been driven hard so check it over very carefully to make sure all is healthy. Blue paintwork and white stripes show that its a Gordini special edition - Renault's homage to the famous cars of the 1960s (see separate picture). Ultimate 182 is the Trophy, but only 500 made it into the UK. Expect these to be more expensive than other models.

See 14 used Renault Clio Renaultsports for sale, starting at £1,995

4 out of 5

Selling

Remember the Clio Williams? Good ones are still sought after and the 182 looks set to follow in its tyre prints.