What's all this about?

As Renault recently announced it was mildly overhauling the Mk4 Clio line-up, it has followed up said revelation by confirming the hot Renault Sport (RS) models will also be fettled.

Ooh, are we finally getting a manual gearbox?

Calm down; no. This is merely the same minor styling updates as enacted on the regular Clio line-up, so smarter exterior and interior visuals, plus some additional in-car connectivity goodness. One thing to note on the RS cars is the chequered-flag motif fog lights, part of the 'RS Vision' intelligent forward lighting package now fitted to the B-segment hot hatch. The non-Trophy RS model also has a new design of 18-inch alloy wheel.

OK, no manual, but has the motive power changed?

Again, no. You can still choose from the standard RS with 200hp and the regular EDC paddle shift gearbox, with a selection of two chassis - Sport, with 17- or 18-inch alloys, or Cup, with a 3mm drop, 18s as standard and some additional firming to sharpen up its act - or the even harder Trophy model, with a revised EDC gearbox, 20mm front/10mm rear suspension drops, more purposeful springs and dampers and the 220hp engine. The Trophy has its own 18-inch alloy wheels and can do 0-62mph in 6.6 seconds, a standing quarter-mile in 14.5 seconds and a top speed of 146mph. You can even make it sound louder by adding an Akrapovic exhaust.

Er... so nothing really has changed?

No, not really. However, there's a change for the GT Line specification on the regular Clios, which adds Dark Metal air scoops in the front bumper along with lateral sills (mimicking the Clio RS), unique designs of 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels, plus a chrome-tipped exhaust and a Dark Metal rear bumper panel.

When can I buy these new RS models?

The new Clio RS should be available to order here from September, with first deliveries later in autumn. Expect prices to carry over from the current car.