Renault Twingo (2007-2014) review - Reliability and Safety

The Renault Twingo hasn't featured in our Driver Power satisfaction survey due to its low sales volumes. Many of its components, such as the chassis and the low-capacity engines, are firsts on this car, and we are aware of teething issues and electrical niggles with the Twingo. Indeed, when Auto Express ran a Twingo, electrical issues blighted our time with the car.

As a brand, Renault has had variable results in the Driver Power survey, with low running costs being praised, but reliability and build quality called into question. Of more concern is Renault's results in the Driver Power dealer survey. While the company came out on top in the poll of franchises a few years ago, this has been bookended by poor placings in other years.

23

In its 2014 Euro NCAP crash test, the Twingo scored four stars overall, with adult occupant protection rated at 78 per cent and child safety at 81 per cent. This is still a very impressive showing, and buyers should remember that the Skoda Citigo and Hyundai i10 earned their five-star ratings under an earlier and less rigorous Euro NCAP testing regime.

The Twingo comes as standard with four airbags and stability control, plus tyre pressure monitoring. All models also have a speed limiter, while the range-topping Dynamique version gets cruise control and a lane departure warning system.

Warranty

The Twingo has a standard three-year/60,000 mile warranty, reduced from the four-year cover that was originally offered by Renault when the car was first launched. In years one and two, there’s no mileage cap, but Renault limits cover to 60,000 miles in year three. If you want the peace of mind of a longer guarantee, it’s worth remembering that the Hyundai i10 comes with a five-year/unlimited mileage warranty, and the Kia Picanto has a seven-year/100,000-mile warranty.

Servicing

It shouldn’t be expensive to keep the service book fully stamped on a Twingo. However, buy the car via Renault Selections finance, and you’ll get the superb 4+ deal included – this gives you four years of servicing and roadside recovery for free.