Model tested: Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup
Price: £15,750
Date tested: August 2009
Road tester: Keith Collantine

Auto Trader ten point test rating: 85%
The Clio 200 Cup now boasts a 200bhp 2.0-litre engine. Offered with minimal equipment and an extra-stiff chassis, or as a softer, better appointed (and more expensive) version, we plumped for the former.

1. Looks
The wide, squat rear wheelarches evoke memories of the Clio V6 Renaultsport. A diffuser mounted between the twin exhausts continues the sporting look - but they're not just for show, as they generate real downforce.
9/10

2. Looks inside
After the exterior the drab grey interior is disappointing. Dull plastics abound, although the bright yellow rev counter brightens things up, as do the aluminium pedals.
6/10

3. Practicality
The Recaro seats don't fold as far forward as those in the regular Clio, making life more difficult for back seat passengers. But life in the back isn't so bad - head room and leg room are okay, but there's only room (and belts) for two.
8/10

4. Ride and handling
On public roads you'll never reach the Clio's limits - it shines on the track. Body roll is virtually non-existent, but the phenomenal handling comes at the expense of ride comfort. Motorway driving isn't much fun, as the firm suspension gives a harsh ride.
10/10

5. Performance
The 200 Cup goes from 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds and will top 141mph. However I would have liked a slightly longer sixth gear to make it easier to live with on motorways.
10/10

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6. Running costs
Renault has kept CO2 emissions down to 195g/km and combined fuel consumption to 34.4mpg; respectable figures for a hot hatch.
7/10

7. Reliability
Electrics tend to be a concern with Renaults, but there are signs this is improving. The build quality of the Clio was generally good, but raising the handbrake revealed a gap in the fabric beneath where some wiring was visible.
8/10

8. Safety
The Clio has a five-star EuroNCAP rating and both rear seats have ISOFIX mountings. But the Cup doesn't have curtain airbags, unlike the regular 200 model.
9/10

9. Equipment
Cup models avoid electric mirrors and air-con but do have Recaro seats, 17-inch alloys, leather steering wheel and a category 2 alarm. The non-Cup version adds climate control, cruise control, front fog lamps, electric door mirrors, automatic headlights and one-touch windows.
8/10

10. X-Factor
The 200 Cup is one of the best low-cost drivers' cars you can buy. You might miss a few creature comforts, but it'll put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.
10/10