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Renault drops hints on hot new Renault Sport Clio

Beefed-up Clio will make its debut at the 2016 Monaco Grand Prix

Renault has chosen the Monaco Grand Prix weekend to reveal a special version of the latest Clio R.S.

Described as a ‘slightly crazy project’, the car is a joint effort between the Renault Sport Cars division and the Renault Sport Racing team, which controls Renault’s on-track activities.

Confirmed details of the car are scarce, but specifications and images leaked onto the internet over the last few days suggest it’ll be something to look forward to.

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Power should jump significantly over the current Clio 220 Trophy, and could top 250bhp or more. Some sources even suggest it could utilise the 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder from the Renault Sport Megane – implying even greater performance.

That also begs the question as to which transmission the new Clio will use. Currently, the Clio 220 Trophy uses a twin-clutch gearbox that’s currently one of the car’s weaker aspects, so we’re hoping Renault sees fit to finally equip its hottest Clio with a manual gearbox.

Images too are thin on the ground, but the sole picture released by Renault points to a more aggressive styling package than the existing Clio R.S., with wider arches, a prominent rear spoiler and racy detailing in the front bumper. The liquid yellow paint finish is much more familiar, and something of a Renault Sport signature.

The 2016 Monaco Grand Prix takes place between the 26-29 May with the latest Renault Sport project making its debut on the 27th. Stay tuned on evo.co.uk for full details of the new car on its launch.

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