What's the news?
Renault has announced that the Clio and Captur can now be had with extra equipment on specific models in the range. The tweaks to the line-up include a new EDC automatic gearbox and the addition of the Renaultsport Monitor 2.0 infotainment system.
Interior
On a more exciting front, the Renaultsport Monitor 2.0 is now available for two more versions of the Clio: the GT Line TCe 120 and the Renaultsport 200 EDC Turbo. This £295 optional extra is able to record detailed telemetry and measure various performance-related parameters in order for drivers to improve their driving skills. The system was first introduced in the Renaultsport Clio 200 and is built into the existing MediaNav infotainment system.
Among the measureable statistics drivers can look at, the system can record and display live information regarding factors such as engine speed, power, torque, oil temperatures, brake and turbo pressures and even steering wheel angle. The fully customisable display can also show acceleration times, braking times, as well as longitudinal and lateral G-force. All this data can then be downloaded onto a USB stick to be looked at - or shown off - later on.
To round off the equipment changes Renault is also offering a reversing camera as a £350 option on all Clios fitted with the MediaNav system. This was previously only available on top-spec 200 Turbo EDC Renaultsport Lux models.
Mechanicals
The EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) gearbox can now be specified on 1.5-litre dCi 90 versions of both the Clio and the Captur. The new unit has, in case you hadn't guessed, two clutches; one to look after the odd-numbered gears and one to take care of the evens and reverse. This system is designed to make for seamlessly quick gearchanges whether selected manually or if left in fully automatic mode. The EDC gearbox also contains a "creep" function for use in heavy traffic or for when parking. In addition, the unit also makes for decent fuel economy and emissions figures when fitted to the dCi 90 engine. A combined economy figure of 76.0mpg and emissions of just 95g/km of CO¬2 have been recorded when the Clio was tested with this set up.
Anything else?
All the additions you see before you are available to order now. The Clio comes to market from £10,795 and the Captur can be had from £12,495.
James Giddings - 17 Oct 2013