Why you’d want a Renault Clio 172/182
At its 2000 launch, the 172 rejuvenated the hot hatch market and blew the Golf/206 opposition into the weeds.
It looked keenly priced at first, although when the Civic Type R came along in 2001 – closely followed by the Focus ST170 in 2002 – Renault had to cut £400 off its price to compete.
When the firm had led the field, it had pitched the Clio high and added lots of standard equipment, but this policy looked risky as larger and more competent rivals came in at only fractionally higher prices.
Renault really turned the tables in 2002 with the stripped-out 172 Cup, carving £3000 off the 172’s introduction price. Even the improved 182 was still £1400 cheaper when announced in 2004. The ultimate 182 Trophy, as pictured, was made primarily for the UK, which had proved to be the model’s most successful market.
British sales were Phase 1, 1357; Phase 2, 3059; Cup, 2392; 182, 5222; 182 Cup, 539; Trophy, 500. Rarity and kudos will always keep the all-red, numbered Trophy at the top of desirability and value tables, followed by the two Cups.
The 182’s extra power comes (marginally) at the expense of weight, so the original version – now scarce – will ultimately outstrip the 182, but currently the newer model retains a slight premium.
(l-r) Phase 1’s softer styling featured more bulbous headlights; Clio Cup race series is well supported; here at Croft, 2003
