New limited edition Clio RS revealed

Renault debuts racing-inspired hot hatch on the eve of the F1 season.

The French brand is paying homage to its Formula One heritage with the Clio RS 18 which is named after the Renault Sport F1 team's 2018 challenger.

Priced from $39,990 before on-road cost the RS 18 is limited to just 10 examples locally.

Based on the top-spec Clio RS Trophy the special edition pocket rocket features black and yellow livery of the brand's F1 cars.

Cosmetic touches include RS 18 badging on the front doors, grey decals and a RS double-diamond logo on the roof, along with a yellow front blade, protective side mouldings and wheel centre caps. Renault has also blacked out the rear badging, front bumper Renault diamond and RS logo and the diffuser.

Inside the limited run model gets numbered RS branding on the door sill, an Alcantara/leather trimmed steering and faux carbon fibre air vent surrounds.

Power comes from the French marque's feisty 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that is good for 147kW and 260Nm matched to a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that powers the front wheels.

Adding to its sportier nature Renault has lowered and stiffened the chassis and has had its steering sharpened.

Renault has also kitted out the hot hatch with a Akrapovic exhaust for a sweeter sounding engine note.

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