Renaultsport Twingo Silverstone GP
Hottest-ever version of city car is unleashed, and we see if it’s worth the big price premium
The Renaultsport Twingo is one of the most engaging small cars around. This Silverstone GP Edition is among the best-looking examples, and a new stainless steel exhaust gives it extra charm. It comes at a price, though, and many of its features can be specified on a standard Twingo Cup – including that exhaust. But then, with only 50 examples in the world, the Silverstone could become a real collectors’ item.
It's the hottest Twingo you can buy – but at £14,995, the Renaultsport Silverstone GP special edition is a whopping £2,785 more expensive than the Cup version on which it’s based. Can it justify its price with a thrilling driving experience?
The newcomer gets the same stiffened springs and dampers as the Cup, plus a ride height that’s 4mm lower than in the standard Renaultsport Twingo. However, it adds silver paint, as well as a black spoiler, wheels and roof. Silverstone GP badges adorn the door pillars, and there’s a unique numbered plaque on the centre console, too.
Interior tweaks are subtle, consisting of a new set of floor mats and a Renaultsport monitor, which can provide read-outs on G-force and acceleration.
The naturally aspirated 1.6-litre engine retains the same 131bhp power output as the standard Renaultsport Twingo. But this model features a new stainless steel exhaust – and it transforms the engine note into a bassy growl at low revs. To get the most out of the motor, though, you’ll have to explore the upper limits of its range. And one thing is for sure – this rorty engine loves revs.
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Hit the red line in each gear, and the Twingo will accelerate from 0-62mph in 8.7 seconds.
Even more impressive, though, is the way the car carries speed through corners. The steering has a pleasing weight and is also direct and responsive, allowing you to thread the Silverstone along twisting back roads with ease. Body roll is virtually non-existent and there’s plenty of grip on offer.
So the Twingo is perfect for a B-road blast – but what about a long motorway slog? As there’s no space for a six-speed box, the car makes do with five ratios, and that means you’ll be cruising at 70mph at 4,000rpm-plus. Add wind and road noise, and the result is quite a din in the cabin. The stiff suspension makes town driving tiresome, too.
On the plus side, practicality is better than in a standard Cup Twingo, thanks to the individual rear seats, which can be moved back and forth to boost legroom or boot space as required.
Keen drivers can’t fail to be impressed by the Renaultsport Twingo, and this Silverstone GP edition gives the car the engine note it deserves, plus a stylish, understated design. It’s still hard to justify the extra cost, although with only 50 being
built, exclusivity is guaranteed.
