Renault Twingo

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 The current F1 special edition has been replaced by the R26 – a name shared with the firm’s Formula One racer – bringinga 5bhp increase in power.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.