Steering Wheel Wonderings

Steering Wheel Wonderings

The Automatic Renault Cars You Can Buy In South Africa For Under R250,000

A car with an automatic transmission (AT) can make driving a lot easier, especially in built-up and heavy traffic areas – which has led to vehicles that offer an AT becoming very popular in South Africa.

According to data from AutoTrader, there has been a considerable shift from manual cars to automatic transmissions, reported News24. The data showed that of the 13% of prospective car buyers using the gearbox type search filter, 82% selected the automatic filter.

Additionally, in August 2020, manual transmission cars made up 54% of the used car market listings, while automatic transmission listings comprised 46%. But by August 2022, the automatic share had risen to 55%, while the share of manual cars dropped to 45%, AutoTrader CEO George Mienie told News24.

In the past, manual transmissions were known to get better fuel economy than their automatic counterparts – which, in the early days, could use up to 10% more fuel than their manual equivalent. However, modern developments in automatic transmissions and variations have meant that this is longer the case.

Among the technological advancements of automatic transmissions came the automated manual transmission (AMT) – also called a semi-automatic gearbox because it marries the clutch and gears of a manual with a set of actuators, sensors, processors and pneumatics.

This type of transmission is used in most cars on this list. Using an AMT system, the driver does not have to do anything, as the system operates the clutch and selects the right gear for the driving situation – although the driver can elect to use the gears manually.

While operating like an automatic, on paper, an AMT gearbox offers the same, if not better fuel-saving benefits as a traditional stick shift transmission.
Unfortunately, automatics often cost thousands of rands more than their manual counterparts. However, the good news is that there are still many small affordable cars on the market with the option of an automatic transmission.

The Renault automatic vehicles you can buy in South Africa right now for under R250,000 is the Kwid and the Kiger.

Renault Kwid 1.0 Climber auto
This Renault Kwid price: R208,999
Fuel consumption: 4.9 L/100km
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Renault Kiger 1.0 Zen auto
This Renault Kiger price: R239,999
Fuel consumption: 5.2 L/100km
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If you want to know more than the fuel usage and pricing of the Renault Kwid and Kiger - you can simply Google it.

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Renault’s Duster Has An Enduring Legacy - Offering Performance, Versatility And Flair


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No matter what you drive, which brand you prefer, or what your automotive technology expectations are if there is one name in the SUV category that ticks all the boxes and has redefined the modern-day SUV, it is the Renault Duster.
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For years now, the Duster has been one of the brand’s most loved and admired SUVs, and for all the right reasons. Every new edition has only taken that standard a notch above.
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What sets the Duster apart?

The Renault Duster reinforces its adventurous persona, ready to join you on all your journeys, and shine the brightest in the galaxy of family-friendly SUVs. A sturdy chassis increased ground clearance, and high-tech features come together to create an impressive SUV that will set you on the path of remarkable discoveries and the hidden joys of travelling.It’s pertinent to note that the Renault Duster fuel consumption is quite impressive in itself - offering low combined consumption rates for an SUV - between 4.8 L/ 100km and 5.2 L/ 100 km.
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Eloquent exteriors crafted for excellence:

The all-terrain world of the Duster, with its standout design, grille, and signature lighting, means you will be noticed everywhere you go.
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Its dynamic, robust, and ultra-modern design is made to express fearlessness. The latest edition boasts a new front end, roof bars, and expressive, modern, and robust lines. It wouldn’t be surprising for you to take out a moment to admire your Duster before every drive.
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The new roof bars are much more than just an addition to the looks, it fulfil the highest requirements of sturdiness, making room for recreational equipment like bicycles or skateboards.
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What’s new this time around are the prominent door-side protectors and wing extenders, the statement front, rear, and side style bars, and a practical tool-free removable towbar.
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Indulging interiors for unmatched luxury:

With its ergonomic and high-quality interiors, complemented by the highly modular layout of the seats, the interiors are adjustable to your needs. The car’s 1/3 –2/3 foldable bench seat and numerous storage options will make all your adventures a breeze.
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The redesigned Duster dashboard is also capable of making your life easier with new adjustment systems for the driver’s seat and steering wheel. What more would you ask for?
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The Duster carries the enduring legacy of the SUV while making the right improvements and adding the right amount of innovation with every edition. Renault Duster is all that an SUV should be from interiors, exteriors, engines, fuel consumption and safety. Drive yours home today by visiting a conveniently located Arabian Automobiles showroom.
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Why Servicing Your Renault At A Renault-Approved Service Center Is A Top Choice To Make

Car owners usually think a lot when they have to take their car to a service centre for any general service/maintenance or major/minor repair jobs. Don’t we? We all know the reason. The trustworthiness of the staff, quality of the service and legitimacy in pricing are the things that put us in the dilemma about where to go for our Renault service.
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Authorised Renault service centres understand these challenges and offer you complete peace of mind with reliable services. Being an ethical Renault servicing centre they have a qualified team of technicians/mechanics that offer you the most trusted servicing and repair jobs.
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You know the lifetime of a vehicle based on two main factors that are regular service and maintenance.
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When you want to keep your Renault in tip-top condition, first of all, you should follow the instructions given in the owner’s manual. Sometimes you may have to bring your vehicle before the timeline given by the owner’s manual due to some unpredictable situations like collisions or mishaps. In such situations, every car owner gets worried about how are they going to fix it or get the required job done perfectly. Keep calm and leave your vehicle in the hands of certified technicians and retain your peace of mind.
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In addition to the quality service and repair jobs offered by a responsive and dedicated team of professionals, they also perform a thorough quality control check on your car before delivery.
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Additionally, the list of services offered for your tyres includes:
  • A systematic check of the wear of your tyres
  • Changing and switching your tyres
  • Wheel alignment and geometry adjustment
  • Balancing of the wheels
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Now it’s time to make an ideal decision about where to get your car service done. After reading this article, you probably want to give a Renault service centre, don’t you?
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Renault Koleos Review Results: An Attractive Package


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The Koleos badge is one you might not see too often, but the SUV nameplate made a comeback in South Africa - affixed to the boot lid of a vehicle that appears to have more ingredients for success in the competitive SUV middle ground, where Rav4, Tiguan and Tucson rule the roost.
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For starters, the Renault Koleos for sale is a far more attractive vehicle than its croissant-mimicking predecessor, featuring clean, taut lines that are likely to appeal to buyers in this segment.
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Measuring 4,673mm, the Koleos is the longest vehicle in the Rav4 class, and it shows in its ultra-generous interior space and competitive boot space. Despite this, it is priced at the lower end of the segment, ranging from R499 900 for the 2.5 Expression CVT to R549 900 for the 2.5 Dynamique CVT and R599 900 for the 2.5 Dynamique CVT with all-wheel-drive.
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The latter was the version IOL Motoring spent a week with, but said they would agree that the front-wheel-driven Dynamique offered the best value in the range - unless, of course, you intend on doing some medium-level off-roading, in which case the Nissan sourced all-wheel drive system will do the trick for you. This AWD system offers multiple modes, these being 2WD for efficient open-road cruising, 4WD Auto that varies the front-to-rear power split based on the impending conditions, and 4WD Lock mode, which allows a 50:50 split for rougher terrain encountered below 40km/h. This vehicle’s ground clearance is also close to best in class, at 110mm.
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There’s only one engine and gearbox combination available in the Koleos variants available and this comes in the form of Nissan’s proven, 2.5-litre normally aspirated engine, mated to an X-Tronic continuously variable transmission.
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The engine produces 126kW and 233Nm, which is competitive at the base end of the segment, and the performance it delivers is adequate performance.
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The gearbox is not as bad as you might expect as, unlike older-generation CVTs, this one has built-in steps (seven in this case) that make it behave and feel more like an automatic.
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As is the case with many European vehicles, the suspension set-up in the Koleos is not really suited to South African roads, as it feels too firm for a vehicle of this nature, which is really more about hauling families in comfort than carving through corners. The road holding is neat enough though.
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The interior, as mentioned, is quite family-friendly - it’s comfortable and spacious (as well as safe thanks to its five-star EuroNCAP rating), while equipment levels are generous.
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To that effect, all models come with dual-zone climate control as well as cruise control, auto headlights and windscreen wipers, rear parking sensors and a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
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The Dynamique adds leather seats with electric adjustment, blindspot detection, front and side parking sensors, reverse camera, keyless start and a larger tablet-style touch-screen that now incorporates the climate control functions. This however detracts rather than adds to the user-friendliness of the system as simple functions now need to be controlled via the screen. Renault did at least include a ‘swipe up’ shortcut to climate functions on the screen, but it’s still nowhere near as convenient as good old-fashioned rotary dials.
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The interior design and materials are of good quality and the atmosphere is lifted by a mood lighting system that offers a multitude of hues, from blue to violet and red, even yellow.
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VERDICT

Renault’s Koleos has evolved into a far more attractive package that in both size and spec terms offers a lot of vehicle for the money, regardless of which version you choose.
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Find a pre-owned Koleos model to get the fantastic SUV at a bargain price.
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Review compiled by https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/

A Renault Icon Is Brought Back From The Dead At The Paris Motor Show

For a world premiere, Renault unveiled a new iteration of one of its most iconic models - the Renault 4On 17th October, for the 89th Paris Motor Show, Renault unveiled a brand-new show car that is a modern tribute to the iconic Renault 4.
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Thirty years after production ended, Renault seized the moment at the 2022 Mondial de l’Auto in Paris to unveil its new take on the internationally renowned and recognised Renault 4.
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The team of designers working under Gilles Vidal, Renault's Design Vice President, has given a modern twist to an iconic previous-generation Renault model that left its mark on the 1960s, ‘70s, and ‘80s. The show car will also resonate with younger generations celebrating the 25th anniversary of the 4L Trophy humanitarian rally.

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Also read: Renault used cars that offer great value for money. .
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New Renault Clio Is In SA - What Does It Have To Offer?


The new Renault Clio was launched in South Africa February 2022 and while the fifth-generation model doesn’t look radically different on the outside, it is totally new beneath the skin as it now sits on the updated CMF-B platform.
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The fifth-generation Renault Clio comes in three flavours with the Life trim grade kicking things, the mid-range Zen and the flagship Intens.
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All models are powered by the new-generation 1.0-litre direct injection turbopetrol engine, which produces 74kW and 160Nm. Curiously though, at a time when many motorists are going the auto route, the only gearbox option at launch is a five-speed manual unit.
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In terms of standard spec, the entry-level Life model ships with 16-inch steel wheels with Flex caps designed to look like alloys, as well as LED headlights and taillights. Cabin features include cruise control, electric mirrors, front electric windows, multi-function steering wheel and a Easy Link 7.0-inch infotainment system with six speaker and Android Auto / Apple CarPlay connectivity. Safety kit comes in the form of four airbags, Emergency Brake Assist and ESC stability control.
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Over and above all that, the Zen model grade adds satnav, height-adjustable driver’s seat, Comfort seats with reinforced side support, synthetic stitched leather steering wheel trim as well as black and anthracite 3D Mountain upholstery.
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The Intens adds 16-inch alloy wheels, exterior chrome pack, Black Mosiac interior decor, ambient interior lighting, electric handbrake, rear electric windows, wireless phone charging, high-beam assist, Lane Departure Warning and a centre console with storage and armrest.
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Find a little extra change for the Option Pack and you also get an upgraded 9.3-inch infotainment system, front and rear parking sensors, reverse camera and 17-inch Viva Stella diamond cut alloy wheels.
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All models are sold with a five-year/150 000km mechanical warranty and two-year/30 000km service plan.
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Article shared by https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/

5 Best Reasons To Buy A Renault Kiger

Watch the below video for OVERDRIVE’S take on why you should highly consider the Renault Kiger as your next car.
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For more reasons to consider the Kiger SUV as your next family car - check out the full Kiger range, model prices and specs and book your test drive!

Reviewing The Used Renault Clio

The fourth-generation Renault Clio is a compact five-door hatchback built on the same platform as the smaller Renault Zoe. It was replaced by the current fifth-generation Clio in 2019.
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Rivalling other mainstream superminis like the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa and Volkswagen Polo, the fourth-generation Renault Clio for sale was available as a petrol, diesel or hybrid model (abroad), with both manual and automatic gearboxes available.
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This iteration of the Clio has a more spacious cabin than its predecessor thanks to its longer wheelbase. The hatchback was given a mild mid-life facelift in the middle of 2016, consisting of exterior styling tweaks, new interior trim details and functions, infotainment updates and the addition of LED headlights.
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There is a performance-tuned version called the Renault Clio R.S., but we will be making a separate page for that model, coming soon. The Renault Clio was also sold as an estate elsewhere in Europe, but this version was not sold in the UK.
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Throughout its lifespan, the fourth-generation Clio received average to very good reviews scores from the British media – affordable, well-equipped and comfortable, Parkers concluded that the Clio didn’t have "any particular weaknesses" when it was on sale. However, now off sale, many reviewers comment that the Clio’s interior is now looking dated.
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Carwow explains that "newer models have simpler designs, bigger screens and better infotainment systems", while Carbuyer says that the Clio’s cheap interior plastics mean that the car’s interior build quality is somewhat inferior to the likes of the Volkswagen Polo.
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What Car? adds that the Skoda Fabia has more interior space than the Clio, and that the Ford Fiesta offers the best performance and handling in the Supermini class. That said, most reviewers agree that the Clio is a stylish hatchback and a good value-for-money package – a great all-rounder that proved to be a capable alternative to the supermini class leaders during its tenure.
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Now no longer on sale as a new car, the fourth-generation Renault Clio holds an Expert Rating of 63% (based on 42 reviews published by UK media sources).
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What Is A Used Renault Megane Hatchback Like?


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The Renault Megane for sale has been around since 1995 when it replaced the Renault 19 and went on to spawn several different body styles, including the taller Scenic, longer Estate, sportier Coupe and, er, breezier Cabriolet.

In this used car review of the Renault Megane - the focus will be on the five-door hatchback version of the third-generation Megane, which was first launched in 2008.

As with previous Meganes, this version obtained a full five-star rating in Euro NCAP’s industry standard crash tests at launch, although this was subsequently reduced to four stars when retested in 2014 under tougher conditions.

Renault also took the unusual step of prioritising a big boot over space for rear-seat passengers, so there’s appreciably more room for luggage or baby buggies than you get in a Ford Focus or a Volkswagen Golf of the same vintage. However, if you want to carry a tall rear passenger or perhaps a rear-facing child seat on an Isofix base in the back seats you wouldn’t want the person in the front to be too tall, and even then, headroom is a little tight.

Interior quality is a mixed bag, with the main dashboard feeling quite plush while some of the other panels and control are a little flimsy. Renault’s music system is also fiddly to use, and programming the optional TomTom sourced sat-nav can be tricky because its controls are located by the handbrake.

As for the driving experience, the Megane does a solid enough job of being composed and comfortable without ever threatening to offer much in the way of fun. The range of petrol engines earlier in the Megane’s life included a 1.6-litre with 73 kW or 80.5 kW, a 1.4-litre turbo with 95 kW, or a 2.0-litre turbo with 132.7 kW. A smooth and punchy 85.7 kW1.2-litre TCe turbo was added to the range in 2012.

On the diesel front, buyers of early cars can choose between 1.5- and 1.9-litre engines with power outputs ranging from 62.6 kW to 95 kW. These were later joined by a 1.5-litre dCi with 80.5 kW or the 1.6-litre dCi with 95 kW.

In 2014, the Megane received a more modern grille design in line with Renault’s other cars. Shortly after this GT models were re-launched with more powerful 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines, uprated suspension and sportier looks..
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Choosing The Best Value For Your Money Used Renault Clio

Getting the best value for your money – buying a used Renault Clio

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The AutoTrader team put together this great article that compares used Renault Clio models. We hope this helps you decide which older-generation Clio suits your budget used car needs best.
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This article compares the various Renault Clio 4 models available on the used market to see which trim level offers the best value for money.
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The fourth-generation Renault Clio has been in circulation since 2013 and presents what seems like good value for money on the pre-owned market. The Clio 4 is due for replacement in the near future, but that doesn't mean that you have to splash out on a new one in order to get a good buy.
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The entire Clio range was awarded a then 5-star Euro NCAP award for safety and all models are fitted with ABS, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), ESP, Hill Start, Cruise Control, Driver, Passenger and side airbags, electric front windows, Bluetooth connectivity, USB and Aux input as well as LED Daytime Running lights.
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Take a look at the various models that were offered in the Clio 4 range and see which models offer the best current value for money. It's important to note that some models listed here were limited edition models or models that were dropped from the lineup during the life cycle.
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Renault Clio 55kW Authentique

The 55kW Authentique is powered by a 55kW (74hp) 1.2-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine that returns fuel consumption figures of a claimed 5.5l/100km. It was only sold for a short while before being discontinued in favour of the 66kW engine unit.
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Renault Clio 66kW Turbo Authentique

When the 55kW engine was dropped in favour of the 0.9-litre turbocharged 66kW (88hp) engine, returning a claimed 4.5l/100km. The Authentique model received some small upgrades including the Renault R&GO audio system with a smartphone cradle.
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Renault Clio 66kW Turbo Expression

Expression models employ the same engine and drivetrain as the Authentique models with a claimed fuel consumption figure of 4.5l/100km. These models see the addition of the Renault Media Nav system with integrated satellite navigation, a leather-bound steering wheel, standard air conditioning, and 16-inch alloy wheels.
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Renault Clio 66kW Turbo Blaze

The limited-run Blaze version uses the same 0.9-litre engine but includes an overboost function that bumps power to 70kW and 150Nm torque (up from 135Nm) momentarily. It has the same trim level as the Expression model with the exception of the 15-inch steel wheels with trim covers.
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Renault Clio 66kW Turbo Dynamique

On the higher end of the spectrum, the Dynamique model variants include all of the aforementioned technology and convenience but adds in the Pure Vision LED headlights and LED taillight elements (from 2016), Auto lights, Auto wipers, electric rear windows, 17-inch alloy wheels and gloss black and chrome trimmings.
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Renault Clio 88kW Turbo GT-Line

As one would expect from a model carrying the GT logo, the Clio GT-Line adds some more power into the mix. The 1.2-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine in the GT-Line yields 88kW and 205Nm while returning consumption figures of 5.3l/100km.
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17-inch alloys wheels, redesigned front and rear bumpers, R.S. Steering and an R.S. gear knob along with GT trimmings sets the GT-Line apart from the rest. The GT-Line is also fitted with sport seats.
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Renault Clio 88kW Turbo Expression EDC (Auto)

The Clio Expression EDC is a sweet spot in the range and combines the best of both worlds. It's fitted with the more powerful 1.2-litre engine as found in the GT-Line but has the same, easy-going trimmings of the Expression model, doing away with the raciness that one finds in the GT-Line. Its crowning glory is the dual-clutch automatic gearbox that helps the Clio return fuel consumption figures of 5.2l/100km.
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Renault Clio R.S. Lux

Performance enthusiasts will gravitate towards the R.S. models . These models are fitted with high-performance 1.6-litre turbocharged, 4-cylinder engines. In the Lux model, this engine produces 147kW (200hp) and is coupled to a 6-speed EDC automatic gearbox, sending power to a set of 17-inch wheels through an R.S. differential.
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The R.S. models have R.S. specific bodywork including a front and rear bumper, side skirts and a rear diffuser with twin-exit exhaust pipes. The interior is awash with R.S. items including sport seats, steering wheel, gear knob, pedals the R.S. Monitor system.
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Renault Clio R.S. Trophy

The R.S. Trophy steps things up a notch from the Lux model by featuring a Trophy chassis that is more tightly sprung, 18-inch alloy wheels, heated seats, and an Akrapovic exhaust system. These models produce 162kW (220hp) and still manage to return fuel consumption figures of 5.9l/100km.
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Renault Clio R.S.18 F1

The last hurrah of the fourth generation Clio is the R.S.18 F1 . Built to honour the Renault Formula 1 team, the R.S.18 F1 is a limited edition offering based on the R.S. Trophy and powered by the same 162kW, 1.6-litre turbocharged engine.
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The R.S.18 F1 is distinguishable by its black paint with yellow detailing, blacked out badges and specific plaques and emblems. It also features launch control for improved sprints from 0 to 100km/h.
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The Experts’ Pick:

If performance is your bag, then the Lux version of the Clio R.S. is a good place to look. The high spec level combined with the auto gearbox makes it easy to live with while offering exciting driving at the same time.
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Should you not wish to go for the R.S. version, the 66kW Dynamique model offers a fabulous blend of comfort, convenience and fuel-efficient motoring, all at a price that won't cripple the bank.
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Source: https://www.autotrader.co.za/cars/