By Mxolisi Mhlongo
(sponsored content)
Renault South Africa has launched a limited edition Clio RS 18 model to celebrate 40 years of the automaker’s involvement in F1.
The Clio RS 18 is Renault’s link between the race track and the road. The RS 18 bears the same name and colour scheme as the Renault F1 race car competing in the Grand Prix. All RS 18 models come in Deep Black cloak and accented Liquid Yellow with exclusive styling decals added to the door panels and the roof.

The interior retains the functional layout as seen on all Clio RS models with heated sports seats, 7” touchscreen infotainment with onboard navigation cruise control speed limiter, rain and light sensors, hands-free entry and start with Stop/ Start functionality. The 5 door hatchback can carry 5 passengers with load capacity enhanced by folding rear seats.
The Clio R.S. 18 is powered by a 162kW/280Nm 1.6L Turbo-charged engine enabling the RS 18 to sprint from 0-100km/h in 6.6 seconds topping at 235km/h.

Drive is to the front wheels via six-speed Dual Clutch transmission offering quick gear changes. Efficiency is claimed at 5.9l/100km. The RS 18 features a lowered and stiffened Trophy chassis and an Akrapovic exhaust system for that “Vrrr Phaa” sound.
The standard Launch Control feature enables racing starts. The Drive button gives you access to three modes: Normal, Sport and Race.
As with Renault’s entire range, the Clio models come standard with a five-year/150 000km mechanical warranty and a six-year anti-corrosion warranty. The Clio range also offers a standard three-year/45 000km service plan with the R.S. being three-year/ 30 000km. Service intervals are set at 15 000km, with R.S models.

RECOMMENDED RETAIL PRICING
CLIO Range-
New Clio 66kW Turbo Authentique 5dr R211 900
New Clio 66kW Turbo Expression 5dr R229 900
New Clio 66kW Turbo Dynamique 5dr R246 900
New Clio 88kW Turbo EDC Expression 5dr R269 900
New Clio 88kW Turbo GT-Line 5dr R269 900
New Clio R.S. 18 F1 (Incl. Metallic Paint) R449 900
OPTIONS
MediaNAV & leather steering wheel Authentique R10 000
Fixed glass roof Dynamique R 8 000
Metallic paint Range R 2 500
This article was in collaboration with the Eastgate GQ Motorshow



