Renault Twingo
| Company type | Public |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | February 25, 1899 in France |
| Founder | Louis Renault, Marcel Renault, Fernand Renault |
| Headquarters | Boulogne-Billancourt , France |
Area served | Worldwide |
Key people | Luca de Meo (CEO) |
| Products | Automobiles, commercial vehicles, electric vehicles |
| Owner | Government of France (partial), institutional investors |
Number of employees | 180,000 (2023) |
| Website | www |
The Renault Twingo is a city car manufactured by the French automaker Renault from 1992 until 2024, spanning three distinct generations. The model name is derived from a fusion of the words twist, swing, and tango.
The initial generation, a two-door front-engine vehicle, was first revealed at the Paris Motor Show on 5 October 1992 and entered the continental European market in April 1993. The second generation, also a two-door front-engine design, was introduced in mid-2007. This was succeeded by the third generation, featuring a four-door rear-engine layout, which debuted at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show and became available in September 2014. Production ceased in mid-2024, with the all-electric Renault Twingo E-Tech set to replace it.
First Generation (1993)
The original Twingo launched in April 1993 and remained available in European left-hand drive markets until August 2007. It underwent several facelifts in 1998, 2000, and 2004. Its styling showed clear influences from the original Honda Today, particularly regarding its overall shape and integrated headlamp design.
Development
Under the leadership of Renault's chief designer Patrick Le Quément, the vehicle's concept originated from the W60 project initiated by Gaston Juchet, which aimed to develop a minivan replacement for the Renault 4. Le Quément chose a production design created by Jean-Pierre Ploué, which involved extending the initial prototype and adding a characteristic front "smile." The interior featured a centrally mounted control console to optimize cabin space. Design inspiration was also drawn from Renault’s earlier collaboration with PSA Peugeot Citroën and the French Government on the 'Mono-Box' ECO 2000 project conducted between 1981 and 1984.
The first-generation Twingo was equipped with an electronic instrument cluster located centrally, displaying speedometer, fuel level, clock, odometer, and trip meter functions operated via a stalk button. Warning indicators were positioned behind the steering wheel. The rear bench included a sliding feature to adjust between cargo capacity and passenger legroom, while the parcel shelf was attached to the tailgate, lifting with it or folding against the rear window when not deployed.
Engines
Initially, all engines were replaced by an eight-valve 1.15-litre unit, with a more powerful 16-valve variant introduced in 2000.
Manufactured at the Flins Renault Factory from its launch until 28 June 2007, production of the first-generation Twingo also took place in Taiwan, Spain, Colombia, and Uruguay between 1999 and 2002. In Colombia, production continued under the Sofasa group until 8 June 2012, exclusively for domestic sales.
- Twingo I Safety
Euro NCAP ratings:
- Adult occupant protection: , scoring 23 points
- Pedestrian protection: , scoring 11 points
Timeline
At its April 1993 debut, the Twingo was offered in a single trim level with four color options and priced at approximately 55,000FF (around €8,400). By June 1994, additional colors were added along with minor interior enhancements and new options such as electric windows, mirrors, and remote keyless entry. October of that year saw the introduction of the automated clutch Easy variant.
In September 1995, Renault released its first special edition model alongside optional airbags. July 1996 brought a new 1149 cc engine sourced from the Renault Clio, replacing the older Renault 5 powerplant. This update coincided with the arrival of the Twingo Matic, featuring a three-speed automatic transmission and safety upgrades including a third brake light.
The year 1998 marked a significant interior and dashboard redesign; front and rear lighting units were refreshed with orange indicators integrated into headlamps. Safety against frontal impacts was improved as well. Shortly after this refresh, Renault launched the upscale Twingo Initiale edition.
A second major facelift occurred in September 2000 that introduced larger 14-inch wheels, updated door trims with expanded storage pockets, a black trunk release lever, and front cup holders. December of that year saw the debut of a new SOHC 16-valve 1.2-litre engine delivering 75 horsepower. In April 2001, an automated manual transmission named Quickshift became available. Further interior tweaks and new wheel covers were added in September 2002.
In Japan, initial sales were licensed through Yanase Co., Ltd., but following Renault’s acquisition of an interest in Nissan during Nissan's financial difficulties after Japan’s asset bubble burst in 1999, Nissan assumed exclusive licensing in 2000. Consequently, Twingo sales moved to Nissan Red Stage dealerships. Despite Japan’s right-hand drive market requirements, only left-hand drive versions with adjusted headlights were sold there.
The third significant update arrived in September 2004 featuring Renault badging on the boot lid, side protective strips along body panels, and fresh exterior paint options. Production of this generation ended in France on 28 June 2007 after manufacturing a total of 2,478,648 units. Colombian production persisted until June 2012 bringing overall first-generation output close to approximately 2.6 million vehicles produced.
Limited Series
The initial generation of the Twingo included multiple limited-run editions, featuring partnerships with upscale brands such as Perrier, Benetton, L'Oréal, and Kenzo. Additionally, some editions drew artistic inspiration from cultural icons like Metropolis, Grease, and Tintin.
Twingo Lecoq Edition
Produced in very limited numbers—fewer than 50 units—the Renault Twingo Lecoq was a distinctive special edition independently crafted by Carrosserie Lecoq.
Electric Conversion
Normandy-based French firm Lormauto showcased an approved electric retrofit kit for the Renault Twingo 1 at both the 2022 Paris Motor Show and the 2024 Paris Motor Show. This conversion transforms the original model into a fully electric vehicle. Currently, this electric Twingo is available through the car rental service UCAR.
Second Generation (2007)
Following the presentation of a concept at the 2006 Mondial de l'Automobile, Renault officially revealed the production version of the Twingo II at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show. In France, trim levels offered included Authentique, Expression, Initiale, Dynamique, and GT. Constructed on the floorpan of the Renault Clio II, this model provided enhanced crash safety features and was produced in both right-hand and left-hand drive configurations. Initial manufacturing occurred in France before relocating to the Revoz facility in Slovenia.
At the 2008 Geneva Motor Show#2008, Renault launched the Twingo Renaultsport 133 equipped with a new 1.6L engine. Production and sales for this variant ceased in August 2013.
A refreshed version of the Twingo II was introduced in July 2011 during the Frankfurt Motor Show, showcasing Renault’s latest design elements including updated front and rear bumpers and lighting components.
Special editions available in the UK encompassed Twingo RS Gordini models as well as unique trims like Gordini TCe 100, Bizu, Pzaz, Silverstone GP, Miss Sixty, and Red Bull RB7 editions.
In Japan, Nissan obtained licensing rights to market the Twingo II exclusively through its Nissan Store outlets.
- Twingo II Safety Performance
Euro NCAP results:
- Adult occupant protection: , scoring 28 points (tested without optional curtain airbags)
- Pedestrian safety: , scoring 11 points
Engine Options
| Petrol Powertrains | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model | Engine Type | Displacement | Output | Torque | CO2 Emissions | |
| 1.2 D7F | Inline-4 | 1149 cc | 60 PS (44 kW; 59 hp) at 5250 rpm | 93 N⋅m (69 lb⋅ft) at 2500 rpm | 132 g/km | |
| 1.2 D4F | Inline-4 | 1149 cc | 75 PS (55 kW; 74 hp) at 5500 rpm | 105 N⋅m (77 lb⋅ft) at 4250 rpm | 135 g/km | |
| 1.2 GT (turbocharged) | Inline-4 | 1149 cc | 100 PS (74 kW; 99 hp) at 5500 rpm | 145 N⋅m (107 lb⋅ft) at 3000 rpm | 140 g/km | |
| 1.6 RS | Inline-4 | 1598 cc | 133 PS (98 kW; 131 hp) at 6750 rpm | 160 N⋅m (118 lb⋅ft) at 4400 rpm | 160 g/km | |
| Diesel Powertrain | ||||||
| Model | Engine Type | Displacement | Output | Torque | CO2 Emissions | |
| 1.5 dCi | Inline-4 | 1461 cc | 85 PS (63 kW; 84 hp) at 4000 rpm | 200 N⋅m (148 lb⋅ft) at 1700 rpm | 94 g/km | |
Third generation (2014)
Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2014, the third-generation Renault Twingo arrived as a five-door hatchback with a rear mid-engine and rear-wheel-drive configuration. Developed jointly with Daimler’s third-generation Smart Fortwo and second-generation Smart Forfour, it shares its assembly line with the Smart Forfour at the Novo Mesto facility in Slovenia. Production spanned from May 2014 through June 2024.
This generation featured petrol powertrains including a 0.9 L turbocharged three-cylinder and a naturally aspirated 1.0 L three-cylinder engine, alongside an electric variant known as the Twingo Z.E., equipped with a synchronous electric motor. Transmission options comprised a five-speed manual and a six-speed dual-clutch automatic. Crafted by designers Csaba Wittinger and Raphaël Linari, the Twingo III was engineered for urban environments, utilizing its compact size and innovative rear-engine setup to optimize interior room.
Manufacturing commenced in May 2014 at Novo Mesto, with European market availability beginning in September of the same year. This launch aligned with Renault’s strategic aim to enhance its city car portfolio through collaborative development and shared production efficiencies with Daimler.
Design and development
In March 2010, Renault and Daimler revealed "Project Edison," an initiative to create a common platform for compact city cars capable of supporting both combustion engines and electric powertrains. The initial outputs of this collaboration were the third-generation Twingo and second-generation Smart Forfour. Both companies contributed equally to research and development efforts, with Renault concentrating on engine technology while Daimler handled transmission development.
Renault’s styling took cues from the Renault 5 and the original Twingo, incorporating a signature “smile” grille and a rear-mounted engine layout that increased cabin space and enabled an impressive 45° steering lock for enhanced maneuverability in tight urban settings. At launch, four color choices were offered, paying homage to the original Twingo’s palette.
In January 2019, Renault refreshed the Twingo’s front-end design along with interior and exterior cosmetic updates, while introducing a new entry-level 1.0 L engine. Due to dwindling sales figures in the UK market—only 877 units sold in 2018—Renault UK ceased offering the right-hand drive version.
Technical details
The third-generation Twingo measures approximately 10 mm less in length than its predecessor. Its rear-engine architecture improves handling agility and passenger space but results in reduced luggage capacity. The suspension setup includes MacPherson struts up front paired with a De Dion tube arrangement at the rear. Unlike previous three-door versions, this model features five doors.
Braking components consist of ventilated discs on the front wheels, while drum brakes are fitted at the rear except on the base SCe 70 variant which uses drum brakes on all wheels. The bonnet opens partially to allow access to key fluid reservoirs and the battery compartment.
Equipment
At launch, four trim levels were available: Expression, Play, Dynamique, and Dynamique S, all offering various customization possibilities. Later additions included “Energy” trims to broaden choice. Connectivity options featured a smartphone holder (R&Go) alongside an integrated infotainment system (R-Link). The sport-oriented GT version was introduced in November 2016.
Safety
Standard safety equipment encompassed tyre pressure monitoring sensors, seatbelt reminders, four airbags plus four side head and chest airbags. The Twingo III achieved a four-star rating from Euro NCAP in 2014.
Powertrains
At its debut, the model offered two three-cylinder petrol engines: a 0.9-litre turbocharged variant and a 1.0-litre naturally aspirated option, both installed at a 49° incline to optimize luggage capacity. November 2016 saw the addition of the more potent TCe 110 petrol engine for the Twingo GT version.
| Engine | Code | Displacement | Power | Torque | Top speed | 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) | Combined consumption | CO2 emissions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol engines | ||||||||
| SCe 70 | H4D 400 | 999 cc | 51 kilowatts (69 hp) at 6,000 rpm | 91 newton-metres (67 lb⋅ft) at 2,850 rpm | 151 kilometres per hour (94 mph) | 14.5 s | 5.5 litres per 100 kilometres (51 mpg‑imp) | 126 g/km |
| Energy TCe 90 | H4Bt 401 | 898 cc | 66 kilowatts (90 hp) at 5,500 rpm | 135 newton-metres (100 lb⋅ft) at 2,500 rpm | 165 kilometres per hour (103 mph) | 10.8 s | 4.9 litres per 100 kilometres (58 mpg‑imp) | 111 g/km |
| Energy TCe 110 | 80 kilowatts (110 hp) at 5,750 rpm | 170 newton-metres (130 lb⋅ft) at 2,000 rpm | 182 kilometres per hour (113 mph) | 9.6 s | 5.6 litres per 100 kilometres (50 mpg‑imp) | 128 g/km | ||
| TCe 110 EDC | 80 kilowatts (110 hp) at 5,750 rpm | 170 newton-metres (130 lb⋅ft) at 2,000 rpm | 182 kilometres per hour (113 mph) | 10.4 s | 5.8 litres per 100 kilometres (49 mpg‑imp) | 132 g/km | ||
Marketing
Renault initiated a "strip tweet" digital campaign in February 2014 to promote the third-generation Twingo. This European-wide advertising effort was created by Publicis in collaboration with French artist pair Kuntzel+Deygas, incorporating the visual concept "Go Anywhere, Go Everywhere."
In 2015, Renault produced a brief music video titled "All new Twingo: Show me a car!", featuring an eccentric woman on a quest for a fashionable vehicle. The clip drew inspiration from the classic "Papa & Nicole" commercials for the Renault Clio and achieved viral status in the UK with approximately 300,000 views within four weeks. To complement the campaign, a Pop Up Store was established at the Crémerie de Paris.
Critical response and honors
The updated Twingo received several distinctions in the UK market, including "City Car of the Year" in 2014 from TopGear Magazine and the UK Car of the Year Awards, along with "Best City Car" accolades from both the Daily Express Motoring Oscars in 2014 and the British GQ Car Awards in 2015.
Paul Horrell of Top Gear awarded it seven out of ten points, emphasizing its inventive design and engineering that combined distinctiveness with driving pleasure. Reviews from Auto Express and CarBuyer rated it four stars out of five, commending its agility, styling, and rear-seat roominess while mentioning wind noise issues and a price premium over competitors. Meanwhile, What Car? assigned three out of five stars, appreciating its retro aesthetic and functional layout but noting it lacked refinement and comfort compared to leading urban vehicles.
Prototype vehicles
Two concept cars previewed the third-generation Twingo: the Twin'Z and Twin'Run.
Twin'Z
Revealed in April 2013, the Twin'Z is an urban car concept developed alongside British designer Ross Lovegrove. Renault’s chief stylist Laurens van den Acker described it as merging automotive design with elements of furniture aesthetics. It employs a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration powered by an electric motor delivering 67 PS and generating 167 lb-ft of torque. The concept features no B-pillar or traditional dashboard and includes regular front doors paired with rear-hinged suicide doors.
Twin'Run
Introduced in May 2013, the Twin'Run is a rear-wheel-drive hot hatch concept created in collaboration with Tork Engineering and Poclain Véhicules. It features a mid-engine layout with a 320 hp V6 powerplant, coupled to a twin-clutch six-speed sequential transmission and a limited slip differential. The chassis incorporates a tubular steel frame, drawing inspiration from the Mégane Trophy and the Renault 5 Turbo Maxi used in the World Rally Championship, and is equipped with double-wishbone independent suspension on both the front and rear axles.
Twingo E-Tech Électrique
Following Renault’s 2019 announcement of new electric vehicle initiatives, the Twingo Electric—known as the Twingo Z.E. (Zero Emissions) or Twingo E-Tech Électrique in France—made its debut at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show as the brand’s first electric iteration of this compact city car. It represents Renault’s second electric model after the Zoe and shares its drivetrain architecture with the Smart EQ Forfour, albeit with a larger battery capacity.
In 2021, Renault CEO Luca de Meo confirmed that this generation would mark the end of the Twingo line, influenced partly by the forthcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations set to take effect in 2025. The A-segment Twingo is anticipated to be succeeded by the larger B-segment Renault 5 EV.
The initial price for the Twingo Electric was €21,350 in 2020. By 2022, available trims included Life (€21,550), Zen (€24,350), Intens (€25,550), and Urban Night (€26,650). Despite being more expensive than petrol variants, government incentives up to €7,000 helped maintain competitive pricing. The UK market was excluded after Renault discontinued the Twingo there following its 2019 facelift.
The model offers a WLTP-certified range of 180 km under mixed driving conditions or up to 250 km in urban environments. Its Caméléon onboard charger supports AC charging up to 22 kW; the 22 kWh lithium-ion battery weighs approximately 165 kg and is installed beneath the front seats. The car does not support DC fast charging. Power is delivered by a rear-mounted R80 motor producing 80 hp and 118 lb-ft of torque. Weighing 1,112 kg, it achieves a top speed of 84 mph and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 12.6 seconds. Driving modes include "D," which simulates engine braking similar to petrol cars, and an adjustable "B" mode for regenerative braking without full one-pedal operation.
While the base Life trim faced criticism for lacking essentials such as radio and air conditioning, it was commended for its smooth performance and strong low-end torque suited for city driving. Competitors include budget-friendly urban EVs like the Fiat New 500 base model, Volkswagen e-up!, SEAT Mii electric, Škoda Citigo-e iV, as well as Renault’s own Dacia Spring. However, the Twingo Electric offers a shorter driving range compared to models from Volkswagen and Dacia.
Twingo Concept (2023)
In November 2023, Renault confirmed plans to revive the Twingo as an electric vehicle priced below €20,000. A prototype unveiled during Capital Markets Day featured retro-inspired design cues reminiscent of the original first-generation Twingo, consistent with Renault’s ongoing trend of incorporating vintage styling into its EV portfolio alongside models like the Renault 4 E-Tech and Renault 5 E-Tech. The concept aims for an energy efficiency target of approximately 10 kWh per 100 km.
Renault Groupe CEO Luca de Meo announced that development would commence immediately with an accelerated timeline comparable to that of Chinese manufacturers, targeting production within two years and suggesting a market launch around 2026.
External links
- (United Kingdom)