New Clio Cup retains the independent steering-axis front suspension system featured on New Clio Renaultsport 197. This system helps to reduce the horizontal force generated by engine torque under acceleration. The front suspension steering axis is completely independent of the damper system, unlike a McPherson-like suspension system where the steering axis is attached to the lower arm ball-joint.
The only parts that have been specifically designed for New Clio Cup are the struts, the shock absorbers, the springs and the bracket connecting the lower arm, the pivot and the pivot holder.
The shock absorbers cannot be adjusted and are sealed on delivery to prevent teams from carrying out any preparation. Taken from Renault’s range of components, the 22mm anti-roll bar has a slightly increased diameter in comparison to the production model in order to limit understeer and allow the tyres to do their work.
In order to adapt the rigidity of the front suspension to motorsport requirements, the engine subframe has been reinforced by an aluminium crossmember. It has also been raised by 5mm in order to achieve streamlined kinematic response for improved on-track handling. The subframe is rigidly attached to the body and the front suspension links have been stiffened and use a ball-joint system.
Owners may make adjustments to three of the front suspension settings:
- Body height, by altering the pre-load of the suspension springs.
- Camber, by using the shock absorbers’ upper attachment yokes.
- Wheel alignment, by using the steering tie-rods.
The production model’s programmed deflection, torsion beam rear suspension has been maintained. As with the front suspension, ball-joint links are used to ensure greater rigidity and improve stability under hard braking. The shock absorbers and springs (130N/mm) have been specifically designed for New Clio Cup. The wheel alignment and camber settings can be adjusted using riser shims.
In comparison to New Clio Renaultsport 197, the only modification to the steering relates to the mapping of the ECU and the lock response has been improved by raising the steering rack by 5mm.
