Most Famous Renault Cars Ever Made!

Renault is an iconic French automaker that has made some amazing cars, here are the most famous.

Updated: February 6, 2024  // 

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Renault is an iconic French automaker that has made some amazing cars, here are the most famous.

When discussing the most renowned vehicles created by Renault, it's hard to overlook the various iconic and pioneering models that have been produced over time.

First off, let's dive into the world-renowned Renault 5 Turbo. It's a small but ferocious ride that truly shook up what we thought compact cars could do. Then there's the adrenaline-pumping Renault Clio V6 - this beauty balances everyday practicality with an engine setup that'll blow your socks off.

Our journey through Renault's iconic lineup doesn't stop there. Next, we'll dig into the remarkable Megane RS— a track beast that's as flashy as it is fast. And don't forget about the sprightly Twingo RS—a nifty little hatchback made for city cruising and tight corners. So sit back, relax, and get set to explore these stellar French speedsters!

1. Renault 5 Turbo

Renault 5 Turbo Red

The Renault 5 Turbo: a hot hatch legend that debuted in the 80s, known for its unique design and impressive performance. With a mid-mounted turbocharged engine producing up to 160 horsepower, it dominated international rallies, even winning the Monte Carlo Rally in 1981. Its aggressive appearance, flared wheel arches, and wide rear tires make it stand out on the road or track. Bucket seats and gauges complete the performance cabin and make you at home in this hot hatch.

2. Renault R.S. 01

Renault RS 01 drifting on the track

Image Source: TopGear.com

The Renault R.S. 01 is a fusion of engineering and style, inspired by the Renault DeZir and the GT3-spec Audi R8, featuring a twin-turbocharged V-6 engine, advanced aerodynamics, and a lightweight carbon-fiber tub. It offers optimal performance and safety with a seven-speed Sadev sequential transmission, bespoke traction control, and ABS technology.

Why the R.S. 01 is Awesome:

  • Inspired by Renault DeZir and GT3-spec Audi R8, designed by Akio Shumizu.
  • Powerful Nissan GT-R twin-turbocharged V-6 engine, advanced aerodynamics, and lightweight carbon-fiber tub.
  • Seven-speed Sadev sequential transmission, bespoke traction control, and ABS technology for optimal performance and safety.

3. Renault Clio V6

Renault Clio V6 Driving on Road

Man, you gotta check out the Renault Clio V6! This beast is a standout in the sports car world. Picture this: It's got its engine smack dab in the middle and looks like it means business. When it hit the scene back in 2001, everyone was all over its tweaked design built around that powerful 3.0-liter V6 engine. Driving one of these? You're definitely gonna feel that rush with some seriously impressive performance.

  • Rear-wheel drive: Unlike most hot hatches, the Clio V6 sends power to its rear wheels for improved handling and traction.
  • Limited production run: Only about 2,800 units were produced, making it highly sought after by collectors today.
  • Racing pedigree: The race-ready version of this model - known as the "Clio Trophy" - saw success in various racing series across Europe.

If you're a car geek hunting for something that's not just your run-of-the-mill, the Renault Clio V6 is one dope ride to check out.

4. Renault Megane RS

Renault Megane RS Red

The Renault Megane RS, man, it's this beast of a hatchback that has gearheads totally pumped.

  • Power-Packed: With a turbocharged 1.8-liter engine producing up to 300 horsepower, the Megane RS is a force to be reckoned with.
  • Sporty Style: Aggressive styling and aerodynamic features like a rear diffuser and front splitter make the Megane RS look as fast as it drives.
  • Next-Level Tech: Four-wheel steering gives this hot hatch enhanced agility and stability at high speeds.

Just take a peek at the Megane RS's trophy case, and you'll see why it's such a legend in Renault's racing history. This hot hatch has smashed records on everything from twisty road courses to gritty rally stages. Its crowning glory? Owning the fastest lap time for front-wheel-drive cars around Germany’s iconic Nurburgring circuit from 2011 until another French whip swooped in to steal its thunder in late 2023.

4. Renault Twingo RS

Renault Twingo RS White

If you want a small car that's big on performance and agility, the Renault Twingo RS is the perfect choice.

  • Impressive Performance: With a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 133 horsepower and 160 Nm of torque, the Twingo RS can reach top speeds of up to 201 km/h (125 mph).
  • Sporty Design: The Twingo RS boasts an aggressive appearance with a distinctive front bumper, rear diffuser, side skirts, and roof spoiler that sets it apart from other city cars.
  • Rally-Inspired Handling: Inspired by Renault's rally racing heritage, this little hatchback offers excellent grip and control on twisty roads or during spirited drives thanks to its sport-tuned suspension and precise steering system.
  • Affordability & Practicality: Despite its performance capabilities, the Twingo RS remains affordable with reasonable running costs, making it an attractive option for enthusiasts on a budget who still crave excitement behind the wheel.

If you're after a thrill on the road without blowing your budget or losing practicality, then the Renault Twingo RS has got you covered.

6. Renault Alpine A110

Alpine A110 Blue

With its legacy etched in the annals of rally racing, the Renault Alpine A110 has consistently been a top choice among car lovers over many decades.

Its rallying triumphs are legendary, notably winning the first-ever World Rally Championship for manufacturers back in 1973. The sleek fiberglass bodywork combined with an aerodynamic shape set this beauty apart from other cars during its time. It was a shining beacon of French craftsmanship.

In 2017, Renault decided to reignite the passion by bringing back an updated version of this beloved car. Now armed with modern tech and packing up to 292 horsepower thanks to a turbocharged four-cylinder engine—this revival showed us all why we fell in love with it in the first place.

  • Rally success: The Alpine A110 won the inaugural World Rally Championship (WRC) for manufacturers in 1973.
  • Sleek design: Its distinctive fiberglass bodywork and aerodynamic shape make this French beauty stand out from other classic cars of its era.
  • Modern revival: In 2017, Renault reintroduced an updated version of the Alpine A110 with modern technology and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing up to 292 horsepower.

If you're looking for a unique driving experience with rich motorsport history, the Renault Alpine A110 is a fan favorite among gearheads worldwide.

FAQs About Renault Cars

When you hear the name Renault, what springs to mind? It's probably their cutting-edge designs or maybe it's their notable triumphs in motorsport. And let’s not forget those budget-friendly beauties that are both practical and oozing with style! You see, Renault isn't just a car manufacturer; they're creators of experiences.

Iconic Renault models include:

  • The Renault 5 Turbo
  • Alpine A110
  • Clio V6
  • Megane RS
  • Renault R.S. 01
  • Twingo RS

Let's chat about the Renault 5 Turbo, one kick-ass ride from Renault. This baby stood out not just for its slick design but also rocked it in Group B rallying races back in the day.

Renault cars are praised for their affordability, fuel efficiency, comfortability, safety features (Euro NCAP ratings), and unique designs.

Renault's uniqueness lies in its commitment to innovation through advanced engineering technologies like energy-efficient engines (Energy TCe) or electric powertrains (Z.E.).

About The Writer

Devin Joy

Devin's love of cars came from his father and mother over 35 years ago. They always told stories of their old cars and the adventures they had in them were so amazing he dove headfirst into the car world, and never looked back.

Disclaimer: The writers of this article may have used artificial intelligence to help them with some of the material. It should not be a replacement for professional help.

Sources:

  1. The seven greatest Renault road cars ever | GRR. (2022, January 20). The Seven Greatest Renault Road Cars Ever | GRR. https://www.goodwood.com/grr/road/news/2022/1/the-seven-greatest-renault-road-cars-ever/
  2. Top Gear’s Top 9: notable Renault Sport road cars. (2021, May 14). Top Gear. https://www.topgear.com/car-news/hot-hatch/top-gears-top-9-notable-renault-sport-road-cars
  3. Renault | French company. (n.d.). Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Renault
  4. Renault Car Models List. (2020, June 20). Car Models List |. https://www.carmodelslist.com/renault/