Skip advert
Advertisement
Long term tests

Renaultsport Clio 200 Cup

A downchange mis-revved interface temporarily forced the Cup off the road. Thankfully it's back now, and better than ever

Renaultsport Clio 200 Cup

I love my Clio. It’s a blast on every type of journey, but shines brightest on my mostly rural commute into work each day. I can’t remember the last time I took the short, straight route in.

Or rather I couldn’t until I had to press my trusty Puma 1.7 back into service recently. The reason? While compiling the Clio v Ibiza twin test you can read elsewhere online, esteemed motoring ed John Barker broke the Cup. An uncharacteristic cocked-up downchange saw the gearbox forced from fourth to first, a knobbled clutch and various vital fluids leaking out underneath.

Advertisement - Article continues below

After spending a few weeks at Renault being mended, the Cup’s back and as good as ever, but I’ve sorely missed it. ‘If it’s any consolation I was busy setting a blinding lap,’ said John. Yep, JB, thanks a lot.

Running Costs

Date acquiredSeptember 2009
Total mileage5854
Costs this month£0
Mileage this month1594
MPG this month29.1
Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Skoda Superb review – an excellent excuse to avoid buying an SUV
Skoda Superb review front
In-depth reviews

Skoda Superb review – an excellent excuse to avoid buying an SUV

The Superb continues to do what it always has: punch above its weight and offer compelling value for money
2 Jul 2026
BMW M240i review – a great value sports car, but better than a proper hot hatch?
BMW M240i xDrive front
In-depth reviews

BMW M240i review – a great value sports car, but better than a proper hot hatch?

The BMW M240i is one of the most affordable new six-cylinder performance cars you can buy – and one of the sweetest, too
2 Jul 2026
Citroën AX GT review – the ultimate forgotten 1980s hot hatch
Citroën AX GT front
Reviews

Citroën AX GT review – the ultimate forgotten 1980s hot hatch

The underdog French hot hatch of the 1980s might just be the most fun to drive. If you can find one.
3 Jul 2026