Possible return of the iconic sports brand
Renault seems to be possibly regretting its decision to close the RenaultSport division. The discontinuation of sports models such as the Megane RS and Clio RS did not delight fans, and now hints are emerging that this decision may not be final.
According to Renault’s Director of Global Sales and Operations, if the public shows sufficient demand, the iconic RS badge could return.
Technical capabilities for creating a new RS
During a conversation with the publication, Bruno Vanel acknowledged that Renault has electric motors and powerful hybrid powertrains that could be used for a future RS model. The most likely candidate for revival is considered to be the Clio RS.
“The good news is that we have the in-house know-how to build such a car [like the Clio RS]. We also have hybrid powertrains; solutions for achieving high power with low CO2 emissions. This is very important now, as we increasingly face CO2 challenges,” Vanel noted.
He added that while there are “no immediate plans” to revive the RenaultSport brand yet, given sufficient interest “maybe [Renault] could reconsider this decision. We will wait a few months, and then think about it.”
Potential basis for a new hot hatchback
While some Renault enthusiasts would undoubtedly like to see the return of the Megane RS, this seems much less likely, as the Megane has transformed into a fully electric crossover. In contrast, Renault unveiled the new generation Clio just a few months ago. The sixth-generation model debuted with a dramatically new look and could become the perfect base for a new hot hatchback.
A new Clio version with the RS badge could use an enhanced version of this car’s hybrid system. In the top E-Tech specification, the Clio uses a 1.8-liter engine paired with an electric motor, delivering 158 hp. If this figure were increased to around 220 hp, it would clearly position the Clio RS in the compact hot hatchback market, almost fully replicating the performance of the previous generation.
Officially, the RS brand was closed in favor of the Alpine sports division, but it is obvious that the decision was not final. Public statements by the company’s top executives point to a strategic pause and waiting for market signals. The condition for a return is not only the technical possibility to create a powerful yet environmentally responsible car, but also clear commercial demand. The success of Alpine and the growing demand for compact yet emotional cars in Europe could create a suitable environment for this. The question now is whether a potential new Clio RS could compete with the electric products of its own division and whether such a model would justify the investment under strict environmental regulations.