Renault Twingo (1993 – 2007) Review

Item: Renault Twingo (1993 – 2007) Review 2024
Author: Administrator

Renault NN tourer

£10,500

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Renault Twingo (1993 – 2007) At A Glance

Great styling, funky interior, optional full length sunroof, classless and dateless styling

Never officially imported into the UK, hence no right-hand drive versions

The Renault Twingo was conceived as a new entry-level model, to slot in beneath the Clio, and occupy the market sector once filled by the R4 and basic R5. It was a radical to look at thanks to a monobox design, which was largely influenced by the success of the Espace MPV. Space efficiency was excellent as a result, with plenty of room in the rear as well as the front, aided by a clever sliding rear bench. At launch, and to keep costs down, there was only one Twingo model, available in a limited number of colours, and powered by the long-lived and super-reliable 1.2-litre, 55bhp engine found in the R5. Only two options were available: a folding canvas roof and climate control.

At the time of its launch, Twingo topped its class in the small city car segment in terms of height, width and knee room – most notably thanks to its innovative sliding rear seat. All four seats could in fact be folded flat to create an impromptu double bed – a unique offering in its field that immediately underscored Twingo’s smart design and versatility. Although this mattered little to UK buyers, as the Twingo was never officially imported here, despite there being plenty of requests from enthusiastic potential owners. The eareliest models with their funky Fisher Price-style interior controls easily have the most classic appeal, but can still be picked up for a song in mainland Europe if you don't fancy searching one out in the UK.

Ask Honest John

What small car has a tight turning circle?

"I have a very small parking space in front of my house and need a small car that can turn tightly and is automatic. What do you suggest? "

Can you charge a car in your parking space? If so, the electric Smart EQ Fortwo could be a good choice – its compact dimensions and tiny turning circle make it ideal for London driving. Alternatively, consider a used petrol Smart Fortwo or Renault Twingo – with their rear-mounted engines, the front wheels can turn 45-degrees, giving them a very tight turning circle.

Answered by Andrew Brady

What car can you suggest that's similar to a Daihatsu Move?

"My wife has had a Daihatsu Move for 20 years and now has to replace it with something similarly 'quirky'. It must have four doors and be petrol, manual and on the small side. Any ideas, please?"

There's nothing as small as the Move, nor has there been for many years. Possibly closest is the current model Renault Twingo: http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/renault/twingo-2014/ And the new model KIA Picanto 1.0 is spectacularly good: http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/kia/picanto-2017/

Answered by Honest John