What's the news?

Renault has revealed that the Clio GT-Line, which bridges the gap between the standard Clio and the Renaultsport version, costs £17,395 and is available to order now. The Renault Clio GT-Line 120 EDC is the first model to feature the company's direct-injection, turbocharged 1.2-litre engine and comes only with the Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) transmission.

Exterior

There are a number of specific parts to distinguish the GT-Line. Design cues come from the Renaultsport Clio; the grille, bumpers, side skirts and rear lip spoiler all differentiate the GT from the standard Clio. Wheels are 17-inch alloys painted anthracite with door mirrors and rear diffuser finished in the same colour.

Interior

More unique features are found inside where the GT gets its own leather steering wheel and specific instrument backgrounds. Renaultsport seats are fitted and the upholstery is described as 'dark carbon'. Some details are picked out in chrome or gloss black while the pedals and gearshift paddles are aluminium.

Standard equipment includes a seven-inch touchscreen multi-media and navigation system. Features such as rear-view camera, panoramic glass roof and leather upholstery can be ordered as optional extras.

Mechanicals

The GT-Line has 120hp and 190Nm of torque, which Renault claims will give 0-62mph in 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 121mph. Fuel economy is 54.3mpg with CO₂ emissions of 120g/km.

Compared with the standard Clio the suspension set-up is different with 40% stiffer dampers. There is also a version of the R S Drive system (with two modes rather than the flagship model's three); in Sport mode the engine, steering and stability control systems sharpen the car's responses. In addition the gearchange time is quickened by 30 milliseconds.

Anything else?

The first examples of the Clio GT will be in dealers this July with customer deliveries starting in September.

James Giddings - 10 Jun 2013