Renault Twingo

By Chris Thorp

08th October 2006

The covers came off the new baby at the Paris Motor Show to rapturous applause. And Auto Express can reveal there will also be a high-performance Renaultsport version.

Set to go on sale in the UK from September next year, the Twingo will only be offered as a three-door to provide a smaller, cheaper alternative to the MINI. It will be priced below the Clio, aiming to tempt buyers with its sharp style and spacious cabin.

Still officially tagged as a concept, the show star reveals 90 per cent of the production model’s looks. Under the bonnet, the Twingo will come with a 99bhp diesel engine or a new 99bhp 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol unit.

The new powerplant will appear in the Clio next year, but it’s also expected to feature in a powerful Renaultsport version of the Twingo. Details are still top-secret, but bosses have said that a ‘warm’ GT version will also be offered.

Meanwhile, Renaultsport has also given its Mégane a boost. The current F1 special edition has been replaced by the R26 – a name shared with the firm’s Formula One racer – bringinga 5bhp increase in power. On sale in December, it will be priced at £19,500.

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