2009 Renault Clio Facelift and New Clio GT

The first photos of the facelifted Renault Clio were released today ahead of the French supermini's global debut at the Geneva Motor Show. For 2009, the Clio III gets a mid-life makeover that brings it in line with Renault's latest models and in particular the Megane plus a new GT sport version that promises to close the gap between the standard models and the 197-horsepower Clio RS.

Evidently inspired from the latest Megane, the 2009 Clio's styling has been updated with a new front design featuring a slim grille that harks back at the first generation model of the early 1990s, reshaped headlamps and a broad grille in the lower part of the new front bumper. At the rear-end, the facelifted Clio is distinguished by the redesigned tail lamps and the newly styled bumper which now incorporates the reversing lights and foglamps.

Interior changes are limited to the availability of new trims and equipment that include Renault's latest GPS navigation system, the Carminat TomTom that is integrated into the upper part of the centre console.

The Clio GT that is pictured here, is a new sport version that will sit right under the Clio RS in the supermini's range. Renault did not release any engine details, but the GT does get a more aggressive appearance with extended side sills, a glossy black grille, twin exhaust tailpipes and a lip spoiler while it will be available with an exclusive body colour, Malta Blue. Sporty details inside the car include drilled aluminium pedal covers and extra side support for the seats, plus GT-badging for the front seats.

Further details for the new Clio will be announced by Renault at the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show.