Compact and Visually Striking: Renault Twingo III
The Renault Twingo, with its adorable design and functional aspects, can be an attractive choice, especially when aiming for a model from its third generation. However, prospective buyers should exercise caution, as its Small Car class rankings are subpar in certain areas.
The initial Twingo, launched in 1993, was a significant success for Renault. The compact car, known for its quirky headlight-shaped fog lights and innovative interior layout, captured the hearts of consumers - despite some reported quality problems.
The third generation, developed in partnership with Smart and produced from September 2014, concluded its run recently, but there's still a good selection on the pre-owned market for those interested.
Quality
Though the Twingo III surpasses its predecessors in TÜV-inspections (HU), it's advisable not to purchase one sans fresh HU certificate or a professional examination. Its defect rate is higher than average across all years.
Noteworthy points include the suspension, exhaust system, and emissions test, as well as the brakes, which tend to wear out more rapidly.
Body and Interior
Stretching 3.6 meters long, the Twingo III maintains its cute charm, yet presents a more mature demeanor thanks to its five-seater concept. Its engine is situated at the rear, while front-wheel drive is replaced by rear-wheel drive. This results in a minuscule turning circle of 8.6 meters, making maneuvering a breeze even in tight parking spaces or busy road conditions.
The interior is vibrant and cheerful, depending on the equipment and the personal touch of the initial owner. The trunk accommodate just 188 liters but can be expanded to approximately 1,000 liters by modifying the rear seatbacks. The passenger seat can accommodate items up to 2.31 meters long.
Car enthusiasts inclined towards open-air driving hunt for models equipped with the optional folding roof. The 2019 facelift introduced, among other updates, a new front bumper, new headlights, and a central console boasting a storage compartment.
Engines and Drive
Initially, there was a 1.0-liter turbocharged engine delivering 52 kW/71 PS and a 0.9-liter turbo with 66 kW/90 PS. Consumption, according to norms, stood at 4.2 liters for both. In 2016, Renault introduced the GT version, which accelerated to 182 km/h with its top-tier turbo tuning, consuming an average of 5.2 liters. Since the facelift, the 1.0-liter was available in two tuning stages with 48 kW/65 PS and 55 kW/75 PS. The GT was phased out, making the 0.9-liter turbo with 68 kW/93 PS the peak power output.
Transmission options include a five-speed manual and a six-speed dual-clutch, available for all models except the base engine. The range was eventually reduced to the 65-PS turbo and the E-Version (Z.E.) with 60 kW/82 PS and a 22 kWh battery, offered from the end of 2020.
Equipment and Safety
Basic comfort features are scarce in the entry-level models ("Expression"). Climate control and an infotainment system are only available in higher-tier vehicles, previously labeled "Dynamique" and "Luxe" at market launch.
Renault reorganized and renamed trim levels in 2018 (Life, Limited, Intens, Urban Night). To ensure desired comfort features, buyers must carefully examine their chosen model.
Conclusion
The Twingo scores points for its design and seating capacity, but a thorough examination by a professional is imperative before purchasing.
As per mobile.de statistics, approximately 2500 used Renault-Twingo models of the third generation were available for sale on their platform, with prices starting from approximately 4000 Euro.
