Stylish, expressive Renault Laguna GT introduces the new Active Drive chassis with four-wheel steering (4WS) and two exclusive high-performance engines in the form of the diesel 2.0 dCi 180hp and the petrol 2.0 turbo 205hp. Renault Laguna GT makes a sparkling entry into the select field of sports tourers, combining real and perceived quality with performance, safety and driving pleasure. (more…)
Tag: Renault
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Renault Laguna GT
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Renault Laguna Coupe Concept
Renault has chosen the Frankfurt Motor Show to unveil Laguna Coupé Concept, its vision of a top-of-the-range grand tourer Coupé. Intended for the discerning motorist, who understands performance, driving pleasure, and refinement, Laguna Coupé Concept successfully marries high-tech with high cool. Underpinned by the Four-wheel Active Drive chassis, its boasts a brand new V6 dCi powertrain developed as part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. (more…) -
Renault Kangoo Compact
Kangoo Compact Concept is a compact, robust leisure utility vehicle that boasts an original design and unprecedented proportions. Its affable style is straight out of the fresh, modular world of Kangoo. What really sets it apart is its two-tone, three-door body, and extraordinary glazed surface area, while its unique Fireball Orange and Brushed Aluminium colour scheme highlight its generous curves.Less than four metres long, Kangoo Compact Concept is in its element in towns and cities. Yet it is always ready to head for the open air and whisk its driver and three passengers away to the great outdoors. Its rugged all-terrain look is emphasised by a ride height that has been raised 200mm, and chunky 19-inch aluminium wheels with five bluetinged translucent spokes. Its young, energetic personality asserts itself through its highperformance LED headlamp and indicator units, which hint at the world of roller-skating. With its conveniently removable rear-section roof, the Kangoo Compact Concept can carry bulky equipment or simply give its occupants the chance to enjoy an open-air drive. Once the hinged roof-flap has been removed and the electrically-controlled rear screen has slid out of sight, the wide blue yonder beckons. (more…) -
Renault Kangoo
On its launch in 1997 Kangoo’s affable, expressive style revolutionised the leisure utility vehicle sector. Roomy and versaile Kangoo has been a success, selling over 2,200,000 units since it was launched. New Kangoo matches family expectations more closely. It draws on Kangoo fundamentals, turning them into an optimised blend of quality, comfort, and practicality. At 4,213mm in length, New Kangoo’s resolutely contemporary, affable, cheery lines exert a strong appeal. Its short, chunky front end frees up space for the bright, airy passenger cabin, which is further enhanced by its steeply-raked MPV-style windscreen. Some versions have pop-open windows, and other others electric ones. All have large doors which open onto a comprehensively reworked interior. (more…) -
Renault Laguna
Renault Laguna : born under the sign of quality Since it was fi rst launched in January 1994, more than 2.3 million of the fi rst two generations of Laguna have been sold. Laguna is manufactured in the Sandouville factory in France with a level of quality never seen before.Preparing for Renault’s return to the luxury car segment, Laguna has been manufactured to be both robust and reliable. The stated objective is to be in the top three of its segment for product and service quality.
Driving pleasure…
Laguna was designed from the outset to give true driving pleasure. It has a dynamic, streamlined and elegant form, positioning it naturally in the realm of grand tourers, with an even more exclusive and distinctive profi le for the Sport Tourer. Its class-leading dynamic performance is a benchmark. Its chassis is responsive and its steering is particularly precise. Whilst being bigger and more spacious than its predecessor, Renault Laguna is notably lighter by an average of 15 kg and is available with a wide range of powerful and economical engines from launch, all with six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes.
…complete peace of mind
Laguna provides a real sense of peace of mind for all its occupants. In terms of protection, it benefi ts from Renault’s acclaimed real-world accident knowledge and all of the latest technologies, in particular, side impact with an innovative thorax double airbag. The sophisticated air conditioning system offers class-leading thermal comfort. Equally, much attention has been focused on Laguna’s acoustics which are again top-of-the-class. With an economical and ecological ‘Renault eco2’ version, Laguna dCi 110 hp only consumes 5.1 litres per 100 km on a combined cycle, or 136 g of CO2 emissions per km. Laguna is respectful of the environment right from its production through to the end of its lifecycle. Laguna will be launched from 12 October 2007 as the future reference point for the family saloon segment in terms of usage, maintenance and repair costs.
Driving pleasure…
Renault Laguna has been manufactured with the aim of offering real driving pleasure. Its benchmark performance on the road is fi rst class. The car offers top driving comfort through its fi ne-tuned chassis and needle-sharp steering. It has an optimal weight distribution with a range of engines and gearboxes which offer high performance while being economical with fuel.
A reactive chassisDeveloped to go beyond the dynamic qualities for which its predecessor was recognised, the Laguna’s chassis offers outstanding roadholding around bends. The steering is more sensitive to the touch, while maintaining its suspension quality through its vertical dampening. Renault’s engineers have paid particular attention to the exact nature of the trajectory and the roadholding qualities of the car’s body.
One characteristic of its turning capability is the specifi c roll which characterises the turning angle taken by the car visà- vis the road. With the Laguna, it is 1.9° (the segment average is 2.2°) for a transversal acceleration of 5m/s2. This situation corresponds to driving conditions on a winding road or at a roundabout outside of the city with a diameter of 400 m, driven at a speed of 60 km per hour.
The front axle is the pseudo McPherson type. The diameter of its anti-roll bar has been increased from 19.5 to 24 mm. Light and compact, the supple rear axle is in the form of an H, with anti-roll bars varying in diameter from 28.8 to 30.5 mm. The springs are 20% stiffer at the front and 50% stiffer at the rear, resulting in better control during vertical movements – without the vehicle being too sporty.
Renault Laguna is still astonishingly comfortable, thanks to greatly improved suspension: in association with helicoidal springs of varying fl exibility, the dampeners are pressurised at the front and in the form of bi-tubes at the rear. The reinforcements are situated at the appropriate points in the body, strengthening the body mass and increasing the capacity to withstand impact: in short, impeccable reliability.
Three tyre sizes are available according to the engine size : 16 inches in three widths: (195 and 205/60, as well as 215/55), 17 inches in 215/50 and 18 inches in 225/45, for heightened performance.
Precise steering
The accuracy of the steering is based on a reduced steering ratio and a stiffened steering column, with an aim to offer the driver more driving pleasure through the steering.
With a ratio of 1/16e (i.e. a 16° angle of the wheel for a 1° angle of the steering wheel), driving movements are rendered easier and the car becomes more agile. The increased stiffness and the systematic tracking and reduction of clearance give the driver more direct, accurate contact with the road, reducing response time between the steering wheel and the change of direction. The reduction of vibration arising from imperfections on the road surface has improved driving pleasure as a consequence. All the powerful engines or those equipped with particulate fi lter offer variable hydraulic assistance.
As a fi rst for Renault in the segment, Laguna inaugurates a new generation of assistance, through the utilisation of a driven electric pump unit (PEG). Available with the main petrol and diesel engines with manual gearbox, it allows the driver to obtain assistance through the use of the electric pump output, in accordance with the driving conditions. This output depends on the speed and the level of assistance required (speed and angle of the steering wheel) which allows an optimal fuel consumption, by driving the pump electrically when necessary. For the 1.6 16v petrol version, there is constant hydraulic steering assistance.
Even lighter and more aerodynamic
Lighter, on average by 15 kg (up to 65 kg on the 110 hp eco² diesel version), Laguna benefi ts from an outstanding weight distribution. It is the fi rst Renault vehicle to be lighter than its predecessor. A key ingredient in its driving pleasure, the weight distribution is a key factor on several different levels: dynamic performance (road holding, acceleration, roll during bends), fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, active safety (shorter braking distance) and passive safety (resistance in the case of impact). More than 300 actions have been listed and carried out by engineers, qualifi ed in their various fi elds, to attain this result.
New Laguna’s performance, both dynamic and economic, is also linked to work carried out on mock-ups to optimise its aerodynamics. This was carried out in the wind tunnel and by digital simulation. These efforts have resulted in New Laguna’s position at the top of the saloon market, with an SCx of 0.645 m² and a Cx of 0.293. (The SCx is the product of the frontal S surface of the vehicle by the air penetration coeffi cient, Cx). This progress is especially impressive for vehicles with raised modularity (hatchback) compared with a “saloon” or “notchback”.
It is all the more signifi cant for Renault Laguna Sport Tourer, with a SCx of 0.696 and a Cx of 0.316, bearing in mind that the average SCx of all saloon cars on the market is 0.70 and the Cx, 0.315. These achievements have been rendered possible by the quality of the changes made and the work on the design of the rear lateral line and the door mirrors, which are, however, bigger in order to comply with the new regulations. As a fi rst for Renault, there is a discreet, integral fairing on the undercarriage which optimises the air fl ow while protecting the chassis.
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Renault Clio Estate
Renault Clio Estate will receive its world premiere at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. Its design echoes the staple lines of Clio Grand Tour Concept, which was unveiled at the last Geneva Motor Show.Renault Clio Estate is firmly focused on leisure pursuits. It strikes a perfect balance between sleek design with its angled rear screen and spaciousness with the generous volumes of its luggage area (439 dm3 VDA).
At 4.2 metres in length it is a compact vehicle that builds on the strengths of Clio III in terms of driving pleasure, interior space, comfort, and safety.
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Renault Twingo
Renault Twingo will go on sale on 15 June 2007, the first new vehicle release in an extensive range renewal programme under the Renault Commitment 2009 plan. New Twingo targets a broader, more international customer base than its predecessor, and there’s even a right-hand-drive model for the UK market.New features include a benchmark-setting 1.5 dCi diesel engine and a high-appeal design, with the emphasis on dynamism for the GT version, and on practicality and robustness for the other versions. New Twingo rounds out Renault’s coverage of the small-car segment alongside Clio Campus, Modus and Clio III. This great little car is made at the Novo Mesto plant in Slovenia to exacting specifications on quality and profitability.
Feisty
New Twingo expands upon its predecessor’s qualities to offer superior dynamic and safety performance. It is precise and nifty in town, yet reassuring on the open road, thanks to a highly effective axle system. With its special chassis tuning and new 100hp TCE petrol engine, New Twingo GT asserts a strong dynamic personality and boasts best-in-class trade-off between performance and fuel economy. New Twingo is uncompromising on safety, offering optimum protection for all vehicle occupants along with modern driver support equipment that was not available on the previous model. Many of these systems, such as automatic headlamp light-up and cruise control with speed limiter, are only usually found on larger, more expensive cars.
Practical
True to the concept pioneered by its predecessor, New Twingo has three doors opening onto four comfortable seats that accommodate passengers of any size. Quality materials and excellent finish are apparent throughout the intuitive, ergonomic passenger compartment. This eminently practical little car goes to extremes on user convenience, with its versatile layout capabilities, surprisingly spacious interior and handy stowage cubbies. The boot is the largest in this vehicle category, and some versions feature four independent sliding seats.
Connected
New Twingo communicates effortlessly with the outside world, with connection capabilities unparalleled in this vehicle segment. The TunePoint sound system, with steering-wheel controls, imports custom music libraries in MP3 format, on USB key, MP3 player or iPod®. There’s a Bluetooth® hands-free phone system with hold function, for safer motoring. And under the innovative “my Twingo” philosophy, motorists can customize their new cars with decorative decals for the exterior and innovative accessories like the Organizer-Box and Make-up Box for the interior.
Reliable, economical and environmentally sound
Respect for the environment is an inherent part of New Twingo’s genetic makeup,with CO2 emissions down below 140g/km, 9% of recycled plastic material, and production at the Novo Mesto plant, certified to ISO 14001. Regardless of the choice of engine, all New Twingo versions bear “Renault eco2”. And New Twingo is designed with meticulous attention to detail, for the lowest possible running costs and the longest possible service life: New Twingo is economical to run as well as being inexpensive to buy.
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Renault Clio Sport Luxe
Renault is marketing a version of Clio Renault Sport Luxe to meet demand from customers looking for a vehicle that combines high performance, comfort, refinement, and safety. Clio Renault Sport Luxe boasts standards of performance and charisma on a par with its predecessor Clio Renault Sport.It offers a wide range of equipment like leather upholstery, 17-inch diamond wheels, and chrome external features. Clio Renault Sport Luxe is an outstanding vehicle, due to hit the market in May 2007 in France and Italy, and subsequently other markets with country-specific option packs. (more…)
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Renault Megane Sport dCi
The launch of Megane Renault Sport dCi sees Renault complete its range of sportingcars with the addition of a high-performance diesel. Aimed at drivers who relish everyday driving, the Renault Sport Technologies-developed Megane Renault Sport dCi will also appeal to those who appreciate reasonable running costs.Its 2.0-litre common rail 127kW (175hp) diesel powerplant boasts generous maximum torque of 360Nm available from 2,000rpm and across an operational power band similar to that of a petrol engine. Meanwhile, its exceptional combined cycle fuel consumption of just 6.5 litres/100km makes it an ideal choice for fans of sporting cars who wish to drive their car on a regular basis.
In keeping with other Renault Sport Technologies-engineered models, Megane RenaultSport dCi’s standard chassis delivers sports performance, while those who prefer a more focused drive will appreciate the optional Cup chassis. Available with three or five doors, Megane Renault Sport dCi is built in Renault’s Dieppe factory.
Last December’s launch of the 150hp Megane GT 2.0 dCi paved the way for the arrival of other dynamic, compact Renault diesel saloons, including Megane Renault Sport dCi which will appeal to customers who savour the opportunity to drive a high-performance car… but would appreciate it all the more if they could use it every day without paying too much for the privilege. Drivers of high-performance diesels tend to cover a much higher annual mileage than those in petrol-powered equivalents.
For them, therefore, it is vital to strike a balance between running costs and performance when it comes to choosing a new car. The compact diesel saloon segment is expanding significantly in western Europe.
Sensational diesel engine
To meet both needs, Renault has fitted its existing top-end 2.0 dCi diesel to the chassis originally developed for Megane Renault Sport 2.0 T. This powerplant develops 175hp at 3,750rpm plus a generous 360Nm of torque at 2,000rpm and, in terms of breadth, its operational power band is comparable with that of a turbocharged petrol engine. The throttle mapping has been modified with a view to optimizing response time.
This engine is packed with advanced technology, including a variable geometry turbocharger which provides a wide spread of torque throughout the rev range. Piezoelectric injectors are capable of operating up to five times per cycle, which helps reduce engine noise, fuel consumption and particulate emissions. Injection pressure has been set at 1,600 bar to optimise combustion and improve the fuel/air mixture. The engine is also equipped with an additive-free periodic regeneration filter, as well as two balancer shafts to keep noise and vibration levels down to a minimum.
Coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox, this engine sets new standards in the highperformance diesel sector, with combined cycle fuel economy of 6.5 litres/100km and CO2 emissions of just 172g/km. Thanks to its 60-litre fuel tank, Megane Renault Sport dCi also boasts an unmatched range in the compact diesel saloon segment. Meanwhile, its performance statistics speak for themselves: 0-100kph in just 8.3 seconds and the 1,000m standing start in 29.4s.
Two proven chassis
Beneath the skin you’ll find the underpinnings of the petrol-powered Megane Renault Sport 2.0 T and the standard Renault Sport chassis blends dynamic handling with the kind of comfort everyday driving demands.
Independent steering-axis front suspension guarantees precise and efficient handling in all circumstances, while body movement is minimized by a 20mm-diameter anti-roll bar. The front suspension has also been tuned to suit Megane Renault Sport dCi’s characteristics and weight distribution. Spring stiffness and damper settings are consequently specific to this diesel version.
The rear suspension is based around a programmed-deflection flexible beam, the torsional stiffness of which is equivalent to that of the Cup chassis version of Megane Renault Sport 2.0 T (80Nm/°). The suspension components themselves are identical to those employed on the
Sport chassis Megane Renault Sport 2.0 T.
A Cup chassis is optionally available. This features an ESP system than can be switched off, as well as specially tuned front and rear dampers and 37% stiffer springs compared with the Sport chassis version. Readily recognisable thanks to its aluminium alloy wheels and anthracite exterior mirrors, this chassis enables committed driving enthusiasts to explore the full potential of this potent Megane diesel.
Powerful and fade-free, the Brembo braking system features four discs that are impressive in terms of both diameter (312mm and ventilated at the front, 300mm at the rear) and thickness (28mm at the front, 11mm at the rear). The front discs are also equipped with four-piston calipers. The alloy wheels run on Continental Sport Contact 2 tyres, either 225/45R17 (for the Confort trim level) or 225/40R18 (Luxe). These were chosen for their renowned qualities of traction and grip.
The electronically variable power steering has been set up specifically to suit the car’s weight distribution.
In terms of active safety, Megane Renault Sport dCi is fitted as standard with a dynamic electronic stability programme (ESP) which has also been set up to suit the car’s particular characteristics. Passive safety features are the same as those on any other Megane – a five4 star performer in EuroNCAP crash tests.
Externally, Megane Renault Sport dCi is identical to the petrol version (without the rear spoiler) and is available in both three- and five-door form. Inside, the mood is distinctly sporting thanks to the aluminium pedals, leather steering wheel and seats with increased lateral support. A range of accessories will also shortly be available to enable Megane Renault Sport dCi owners to customize their vehicle as a function of their individual tastes.
Dieppe’s sporting know-how
Megane Renault Sport dCi is built on Renault’s Dieppe assembly line, using shells delivered from the company’s Palencia plant, in Spain. The production system has been modified to the particular requirements of this high-performance diesel and quality control standards are a match for the very best. The Dieppe factory oversees production of all sporting models developed by Renault Sport Technologies.
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Renault Clio Grand Tour
Renault introduces Clio Grand Tour Concept at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show. A glimpse of developments to come within the Clio III range, Clio Grand Tour Concept targets drivers looking for a small, dynamic and attractive estate car with the abilities of a classic grand tourer. Finished in special Comet Gold paintwork, Clio Grand Tour Concept is powered by the 2.0 16V 200hp petrol engine, a unit that promises incomparable driver appeal. The cabin is bright, practical and comfortable – the perfect place for relaxing journeys.And with its large, easy-to-load cargo area, Clio Grand Tour Concept is geared very much towards leisure activities. Developed around photographic and multimedia themes, the show car has a very high specification and includes a number of benchmark electronic features.
A powerful, dynamic presence
At 4.2 metres in length, Clio Grand Tour Concept will appeal to drivers who want a compact estate with the panache of a grand tourer. There is no mistaking its provenance. Clio III’s distinctive profile is easily detectable, although the shape is enhanced by more pronounced curves. Fitted with bespoke side panels and a rakish tailgate topped by an aerofoil, Clio Grand Tour Concept fizzes with power and energy. The three-door bodyshell, roof bars, wider front and rear wings, sculpted sills, air ducts and rear diffuser underline its potency.
At the front, a wide air intake grille cools the naturally aspirated 2.0 16V 200hp engine. The streamlined front lights house high-performance LEDs and the compact rear lights encapsulate Clio Grand Tour Concept’s nononsense character. The rear-view mirrors and bumpers are painted Comet Gold, like the bodywork. A subtle array of pixels can be picked out on the sides of the bodywork, suggesting the worlds of multimedia and photography. Hunched on aluminium wheels – 18-inch rims at the front, 19-inch at the rear – Clio Grand Tour Concept looks effervescent and dynamic.
Renault Clio Grand Tour 
A large, practical boot
Clio Grand Tour Concept’s generous proportions will meet the needs of customers looking for a car that blends practicality and character. Its adaptable interior and longer rear overhang (bigger than that on a standard Clio III) combine to provide excellent load-carrying capacity. Clio Grand Tour Concept has an impressive 430-litre boot and the cargo area measures 1.7 metres in length. Svelte, individual seats with integral head-rests offer comfort and good body support for up to four occupants. The rear seats fold easily to create a flat load area. In an instant, the Clio Grand Tour Concept transforms into a two-seater coupe – a 100% fun car with a 1,275-litre load capacity.
Comfort and driver appeal
A cocktail of the Clio III’s remarkable roadholding and sheer driving pleasure, Clio Grand Tour Concept is a car for free spirits. Its dynamic attributes allow the naturally aspirated 2.0 16-valve engine to show its full potential. It’s a flexible (215Nm of torque at 5,500rpm), powerful (200hp [145 kW] at 7,250rpm) unit that is lively when required, yet docile and tractable in everyday driving. Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, it accelerates from 0-100kph in just 7.2 seconds.
Underneath, however, Clio Grand Tour Concept is still a Clio – and that means it’s supremely comfortable and easy to live with. The practical interior is perfect for relaxing journeys. The wide, panoramic glass roof creates a bright, airy ambience that highlights the generous cabin dimensions and large boot. The elegant dashboard incorporates a navigation screen and analogue/digital speedometer. A great deal of attention was paid to interior lighting. Yellow in tone – Renault’s corporate colour – it gives the cabin a certain vibrancy, which echoes the car’s entertaining character. The centre console, boot floor and door trims also disseminate streaks of yellow light.
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Renault Scenic Conquest
Scenic Conquest has been designed to help owners make the most of their leisure time. Its rugged front and rear styling resembles that of an off-roader.With its raised ride height and strengthened suspension, the chassis has been adapted to suit all kinds of terrain. Renault Scenic Conquest is available with a choice of 2.0 16V 135hp petrol or 1.9 dCi 130hp diesel power (plus, in some markets, the 1.6 16V 110hp petrol and 1.5 dCi 105hp diesel).
Its extensive range of standard equipment includes rear parking proximity sensors, alloy wheels, longitudinal roof bars and, on 2.0 16V and 1.9 dCi versions, an electronic stability program (ESP).
Renault Scenic Conquest 
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Renault Clio Rip Curl
Open the door of the Rip Curl Clio and enter a world of fun and freedom. Renowned surf and snowboard specialist Rip Curl has added its trademark styling to the Clio’s attractive, dynamic lines and the Rip Curl Clio features special Iceberg Blue paintwork and, optionally, 16-inch alloy wheels.The interior has a sporting feel, too, with bright red flourishes forming a spectacular contrast to a deep black backdrop. Practical and comfortable, the cabin is perfect for those who love the great outdoors.The Rip Curl Clio features equipment that is 100 per cent designed for beach or piste: the special rubber flooring and rigid boot box are impervious to sand or snow. The Rip Curl Clio is also 100% dedicated to music, with an Audio Connection Box that links mobile music players to the in-car entertainment system. The two available engines – the TCE 100hp and 1.5 dCi FAP – are environmentally sensitive and ripe with innovations. They combine driving pleasure with low fuel consumption and emissions. This underlines Renault‘s responsible attitude towards the environment as it seeks to reduce greenhouse gases and build cars that are 95 per cent recyclable by weight.
Renault Clio Rip Curl 
The Rip Curl Clio highlights a strong bond between Renault and Rip Curl – a long-term commitment that will evolve in the years to come. The two companies share a passion for freedom and mobility and are committed to respecting and protecting the planet. They will collaborate with an abundance of good humour and artistic creativity and the partnership stands out as different, offset approach to both the product and communicating.
A dynamic design retouched by young talents Clio has been a major success for Renault’s designers. Its compact lines are simultaneously dynamic, robust, flowing and attractive. For this limited edition model, Renault handed its paintbrushes and spray guns to Rip Curl, whose artists were able to express their sensitivity and graphic flair. Clio’s protective side strips are embellished with the Rip Curl motif and the hatchback incorporates an original graphic incorporating the brand’s name. The Rip Curl Clio is also the first Renault to feature a new body colour, Iceberg Blue, which provides a neat link between glacier and ocean.
Inside, the emphasis has been placed on comfort and alluring décor. Attention to detail is a Rip Curl trademark: the bespoke trim includes red inserts on the dash panel which complement the sides of the seats , anti-slip door sill strips and Rip Curl insignia on the front headrest tags and centre console facia.
Standard features tailored to young adventurers 100% action: the specification includes equipment designed especially for younger drivers, their hobbies and their thirst for adventure. Hence the rubber floor mats in the front and the storage box in the boot. The latter is big enough to accommodate all the kit you’ll need for your snow or surf trip.
100% music: located in the glovebox, the Audio Connection Box provides a direct link between iPods®/MP3 players (via USB or jack) and the car stereo, which has steering wheel-mounted controls. 100% voyager: occupants are well catered for in the user-friendly, comfortable cabin. Clio remains the benchmark within its segment.
Respect for the environment
A range of engine options underlines the Rip Curl Clio’s dynamism and driver appeal. It also reaffirms Renault’s commitment to developing environmentally sensitive technology. The new TCE 100hp (73kW) engine is fitted with a low-inertia turbo and delivers remarkable performance, because it combines the power of a 1.4-litre engine with the torque of a 1.6 (145Nm) and the economy of a 1.2 (the 650rpm idling speed helps save fuel). Its CO2 emissions are rated at just 140g/km and it has been developed to set new performance and economy standards within this power band. Its true capacity is just 1,149cc and this tiny jewel is more economical than any rival engine in the combined cycle, where the Rip Curl Clio returns 5.9l/100km.The Rip Curl Clio is also available with a 1.5 dCi 85hp diesel engine, with particulate filter: in this guise it emits 126g/km of CO2 and sips fuel at just 4.8l/100km (58.9mpg) in the combined cycle. Another new, ecologically sound development, the filter features an injector within the exhaust system. It’s a shrewd innovation that was subject to a number of patent applications during its evolution. In keeping with consumer demands, the Rip Curl Clio is available with a range of clean, thrifty engines to enhance its environmental credentials. The Rip Curl Clio is also 95 per cent recyclable by weight, which illustrates that Renault shares its partner’s real-world cares and concerns.
A lasting partnership
The Rip Curl Clio limited edition heralds the dawn of a multi-year partnership and this commitment is founded on three pillars: a common passion for freedom and mobility, a commitment to safety and environmental respect and creative forward thinking.For each partner, this is a fresh approach to both the product and communicating. It’s a tough challenge, but potentially very rewarding.
-Renault will put its automotive know-how, all-round excellence and industrial power at the disposal of a rising brand and its armada of young fans who love surfing, snowboarding, music and the planet. Renault has placed its confidence in the Australian company’s creative talents, who have put the finishing touches to this limited edition model and contributed significantly to the original launch announcement. Furthermore, Renault will join Rip Curl in supporting surfing in Europe and protecting sensitive areas where the sport takes place (Rip Curl Planet Project).
– Rip Curl brings Renault its slightly off-the-wall creativity and a taste for innovation. This leading surf brand is renowned for its technical prowess and is also a byword for dependability in its field. Still privately owned, Rip Curl retains its spirit of adventure and even has its own lifestyle ethos, known as ‘The Search’.
The Rip Curl Clio is, ultimately, a form of expression using words and styling cues that will be familiar to surfers and snowboarders. It is blessed with a healthy dose of irreverence and should under no circumstances be taken too seriously. The Renault Rip Curl Clio insignia symbolises an unusual – but incredibly dynamic – crossbreed.
