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Donington Park Track Guide with a Clio 200 | Aspire Track Car Hire

Donington Park National Circuit, located in Leicestershire, is a classic UK racing venue packed with fast corners and technical sections. The shorter National layout is a favourite for track day drivers looking for a thrilling, high-speed experience with plenty of opportunities to hone their skills. The Renault Clio 200 from Aspire Track Car Hire is the perfect partner for this circuit, offering sharp handling and strong braking to master every bend.

This guide provides a corner-by-corner breakdown, explains why the Clio 200 suits Donington National perfectly, and shares key driving tips to get the best out of your track day.

Donington Park circuit available for Aspire Track Car Hire’s Arrive and Drive Renault Clio 200 rental experience

Why Donington Park?

Donington Park National combines fast, flowing corners with technical braking zones, offering a balanced challenge that suits agile, responsive cars like the Renault Clio 200. Its mix of high-speed sweepers and tight hairpins rewards smooth driving and precision, making it an ideal venue to extract maximum performance from Aspire Track Car Hire’s well-prepared Clio 200.​​

Redgate

Tighter than it looks, turning over 90 degrees. Brake firmly using the pitlane exit as a marker. The Clio 200’s front-end grip helps a late turn-in aiming for a late apex—run along the inside curb if it helps keep the front tires hooked. There’s some run-off, but the grass is rough, so stay on track.

Hollywood

Use this gentle right-hander to position the Clio in the middle of the track, smoothly shifting right to prepare for the Craner Curves. The Clio’s agile turn-in makes this an easy setup corner.

 

Craner Curves

Fast, steep downhill rollercoaster. Ideally, be all the way right on the short straight before the left turn. The Clio needs no lift here if your line is correct—avoid backing off mid-corner to prevent upsetting the balance. Steering should be smooth and gradual over the crest as the car goes light. Exit doesn’t need full track width; stay left to set up for The Old Hairpin.

 

The Old Hairpin

Despite the name, this is a quick 4th-gear corner. Brake alongside the left kerb, turn in late, and hit the obvious apex. The Clio 200 thrives here with good front-end grip—use all the available exit tarmac to maximize speed uphill.

 

McLeans

Stay right under Starkeys bridge, then brake just before Schwantz Curve. Lift lightly to settle the Clio, then hard braking uphill for McLeans. This 3rd-gear corner needs a late apex (about ¾ along the inside kerb) without running the kerb—too much will upset the balance. It’s blind, so be patient with turn-in to avoid running wide.

 

Coppice

Apex is hidden until turn-in. Brake on the short rise and turn in when you see the blue and white stones. Maintain a steady steering angle—no double apex here. The Clio’s front-wheel drive helps keep the line stable. A good exit is vital for the following long straight.

 

The Esses

Braking marker is the new GP pits. The track slopes down into braking, then climbs slightly. Sacrifice some mid-corner speed to open the final section for maximum exit speed. Use exit kerbs carefully—walls are close, and mistakes are costly. The Clio’s balance rewards smooth throttle and steering here.

Donington Park Clio 200 Driving Tips

Donington National is a fast, flowing circuit that rewards precision and smoothness. Here are four essential tips to maximise your Aspire Track Car Hire Renault Clio 200 experience:

  • Prioritise smooth throttle and steering inputs to maintain momentum through high-speed sections like Hollywood and Fogarty Esses.

  • Use progressive braking into slow corners such as Old Hairpin and Melbourne to keep the car balanced.

  • Leverage the Clio 200’s nimble handling to rotate confidently through tight corners, especially the hairpins.

  • Stay focused between corners—Donington demands precision and rhythm for fast lap times.

Track Day Essentials

When you hire a Clio 200 from Aspire Track Car Hire, you benefit from:

  • Full track prep and safety check

  • Mechanical support throughout the day

  • Helmet hire and driver tuition 

  • Video footage

  • Affordable pricing and easy booking process

📍 Location: We support track days across the UK, including Brands Hatch, Bedford Autodrome, Snetterton, and more.

Learn more about Donington Park Official Circuit

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