Renault->ke72 sent us for a loop at the 2012 Paris Auto Show by revealing not only the standard version of the new generation Clio, but its RS version as well. This isn't exactly sports car material, but the RS does get a 200 HP 1.6 turbocharged engine (hence the name "200 Turbo"), which is a vast improvement over the standard model's 120 HP capability.

When compared to a standard Clio->ke1021, the RS version will be distinguished by the usual Renault sport elements, including a unique grille and spoiler, new front and rear bumpers, wide-set LED daytime running lights, sill extensions, and 17-inch wheels.

The completely new 1.6 turbocharged engine is coupled with the EDC dual clutch transmission and paddle gear changes. The engine will deliver a total of 200 HP and 177 lb-ft of torque at just 1,750 rpm. Peugeot will announce the engine's performance numbers in early 2013 when the test drives are in session.

The new Renault Clio RS 200 Turbo will go on sale in 2013.

UPDATE 02/13/13: Renault has officially announced a base price for the Clio RS 200 in France. Check out how much it's going to cost and the conversion rate in USD after the jump.

Hit the jump to read more about the 2013 Renault Clio RS 200 Turbo.

2013 Renault Clio RS 200 Turbo

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 Renault Clio RS 200 Turbo
  • Engine/Motor: inline-4
  • Horsepower: 200 @ 6000
  • Torque: 177 @ 1750
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior and Interior

The new Clio RS 200 Turbo will include design elements already seen on other RenaultSport models. These elements include a unique grille and spoiler, new front and rear bumpers, wide-set LED daytime running lights, sill extensions, and standard 17" wheels, or 18" available as an option. At the rear, a dual-tailpipe exhaust system and a sporty sound signature will complete the exterior look.

It will also have the usual RS elements on the interior. The bucket seats will be offered with optional leather upholstery and will provide extra lateral support. The steering wheel is flanked by two gearshift paddles, a dedicated instrument pack, and aluminum-capped pedals.

Equipment list:

-Multimedia system

-Touchscreen navigation

-Bluetooth radio with USB connectivity

-Hands-free entry and starting, driver aids

-Climate control

-Parking sensors

Customers can also benefit from the Renault Sport exterior personalization program which includes a choice of four themes, each of which can be combined with different motifs, upgrade elements, and trim packs.

Engine

Under the hood, Renault has placed a new 1.6 turbocharged engine coupled with the EDC dual clutch transmission and paddle gear changes. This engine delivers a total of 200 HP and 177 lb-ft of torque delivered at just 1,750 rpm. This maximum torque is then consistently available at higher revs – up to 5,600 rpm – thanks to the turbocharger.

The new engine includes cutting edge technologies, like the DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) cam followers developed from Formula One and Variable Valve Timing (VVT).

The new EDC dual clutch, six-speed transmission allows the driver to adopt the driving style they so choose. The EDC transmission is docile in daily driving and particularly effective in sporty driving, with three different modes, including a 'race" option.

Chassis

Customers will have the possibility to choose between two different chassis: a sport chassis for an optimum balance of sportiness and comfort in everyday motoring or a Cup chassis for technical and track day enthusiasts. The Cup version will deliver 15% more stiffness and a lower (5mm) ride.

The new Clio RS has also been equipped with technologies like R.S. Drive. This system works in three modes: "‘Normal", "Sport," and "Race." At just one push of a button, it modifies the engine and gearbox mapping, ESC settings, steering feeling, and throttle pedal response.

Prices

The new Clio RS has been priced from €24,990 in France, which is about $33,600 based on current exchange rates.

Competition

There are about a gazillion compact cars with turbocharged engines, including the Ford Fiesta ST, Fiat 500 Abarth, and Citroen DS3 Racing, all of which provide strong competition for the new Clio RS. Revealed at the Geneva Motor Show, the new Fiesta ST is powered by a 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine that delivers a total of 180 HP and a peak torque of 177 lb-ft. The 500 Abarth gets a 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine that delivers a total of 135 HP and a peak torque of 152 lb-ft of torque, while the DS3 R gets a 1.6 Liter four cylinder tuned to deliver a total of 200 HP.

The DS3 R delivers the same output as the new Clio RS, but the new Clio RS also many other advantages not offered by any of its competitors, one being the choice of two different chassis and that impressive list of technologies.