2003 Renault Clio V6 "Lutecia" Phase 2

Renault wanted to build the ultimate hot hatch from the second-generation Clio. To do so, the company decided to install a 3.0-liter, DOHC V6, in a midship arrangement, into the family hatchback, since there wasn't enough room to accommodate such a large powerplant under the hood.

This engine is the same found in the company's upscale model, the Laguna. It produces 230 HP at 6000 rpm, and an impressive 221.3 lb-ft of torque at 3750 rpm. Shifting is performed via a slick 6-speed manual gearbox. The large power output made the Clio Renault Sport V6 the prototypical "point and squirt" car because it possessed both excellent acceleration, especially at the low end of the rpm spectrum, and remarkable nimbleness.

A slightly redesigned Sport V6, called "Phase II", appeared at the Paris Motor Show in October 2002. Power for the engine was bumped up to 251 HP at 7150 rpm and 221.3 lb-ft of torque. The suspension geometry was also revised, and, when combined with an additional subframe at the rear, the car handled better than the original. It also featured larger 18-inch wheels, and a more aggressive front fascia.

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