Renault unleashes Red Bull specials

RENAULT is celebrating its success with the Red Bull Formula 1 team by releasing special, strictly limited-production versions of its Clio RS200 and Megane RS265 hot hatches.

Just 35 of the 455 Red Bull Clios built for global consumption and 51 of the 522 Red Bull Meganes will come to Australia, priced at $38,490 and $44,640 plus on-roads respectively – a $2000 premium over the regular RS models.

Both come standard with the Cup suspension pack, black 18-inch alloy wheels, red brake callipers, Recaro sports seats, keyless entry, RS Monitor on-board telemetry system and an individually numbered commemorative plaque.

Finished in Star black metallic paint, both cars use the F1 racer’s Liquid Yellow highlights for the mirror housings, front spoiler and rear diffuser, while the look is finished off with a chequered flag roof decal and Red Bull Racing logos on the flanks.

The Clio also gets the same high-performance Bridgestone tyres used on the Megane RS Trophy that set a new a front-wheel-drive lap record at the famed Nurburgring Nordschleife in Germany last year.

Renault Australia managing director Justin Hocevar said the company is “delighted to be releasing these Renaultsport-Red Bull limited editions”.

“Renaultsport holds a strong place in the hearts of many Australians in fact we are the third-strongest country in the world for Megane RS sales,” said Mr Hocevar.

He said Renaultsport has a proud history of releasing highly desirable limited-edition models and was excited to be able to offer these ones in Australia.

The Clio RS Red Bull could be a swansong for the light-sized hottie as the all-new Clio is set to arrive in Australia next year with a full range of variants including a turbocharged RS with dual-clutch automatic transmission.