Renault Clio 2006 Review

Something half the size and weight is going to be a much more entertaining proposition especially when it's blessed with a potent 2.0-litre engine generating 131kW/200Nm output.

It also consumes considerably less juice.

Renault's Clio Sport Cup is such a car, and it's an absolute hoot to drive – much more fun than something like a Holden Commodore SS which has twice the power but is almost twice the weight.

The Clio Cup is a supplementary model to the Clio Sport – with stiffer suspension, a lower ride height and different alloy wheels. Cup is a more engaging drive as a result, gripping the road like the proverbial slot car and conveying plenty of information about the road back to the driver.

The Cup model costs about $35,000 which is a fair old ask for such a small car but it has a big heart. Acceleration in a straight line is extremely rapid giving the Cup a David and Goliath status when stacked up against a big, high-powered, heavy hitter.

Come to some tight corners and it's "bye for now."

The Cup is a three door hatchback with a rigid chassis, a wheel at each corner, wide stance and massive brakes – the ideal cornering combo.

The idea is to point it at a set of switchbacks, snick it into gear and fire it up for a most satisfactory driving experience. A car like this is inherently safer than a mere hatchback econobox due to its dexterity, reponsiveness and high quality components such as the Michelin tyres and sophisticated electronic controls that include ABS and electronic stability program (ESP).

It also looks, feels and sounds the business.

Those twin, wide spaced exhaust tips growl a stirring note, the low ride height looks like a hunkered down athlete and the dark wheels give a slightly sinister appearance to the little Cup.

Inside is compact but funky with a splash of metallic fascia and trims, sports seats climate control and multi textured upholstery. The audio is average but the pedals are proper drilled items and the stering wheel has a number of controls arranged around it per- imeter.

It uses a negligible amount of fuel when used sparingly, appreciably more when the wick is turned up. The engine is a non-turbo, 2.0-litre twin cam with variable intake cam timing. It has impressive performance across a broad engine speed range.

Safety eqyuipment includes four air bags and auto on xenon headlights. The wipers also have an auto function.