Renault Twingo Review: Small, Bright and Full of Personality

Overview

The new Renault Twingo manages a rare trick: it delivers the bright, playful spirit of the concept almost unchanged, while adding the everyday practicality buyers need. The production car keeps the quirky details, bold colours and fun accessories that made the concept so likeable — and wraps them around a sensible, efficient electric drivetrain that suits city life.

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Design and character

Renault didn’t dilute the concept’s personality. The Twingo’s smiley front end, horseshoe daytime running lights and that distinctive “lozenge” motif carry straight over to production. The result reads as deliberate design rather than retro pastiche — it’s playful without feeling childish.

A few details stand out: the pronounced wheel arches, the large wheels (18-inch is an option that fills the arches), and the wraparound glasshouse that echoes the original Twingo’s silhouette. Exterior colours are an intentional part of the package — vivid greens, poppy yellows, rich reds and other bright options give the car real kerb appeal. The small protective lozenge panels along the doors are practical as well as decorative, intended to take the knocks of city life.

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Powertrain and efficiency

Under the skin the Twingo is a compact, efficient EV. Renault’s production Twingo uses a modest 26.5 kWh LFP battery paired to a single electric motor that produces roughly 80 hp. That combination yields around 163 miles of range in the test figures mentioned in the transcript, and the car’s small size helps it achieve roughly 6 miles per kWh — very efficient for city use.

This is not a motorway cruiser; it’s a city specialist. The single-motor layout is tuned for low-speed efficiency and easy urban drivability rather than outright performance. Regenerative braking has four levels and enables full one-pedal driving when you want it, which is ideal for frequent stop-start traffic.

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Interior and packaging

Inside, Renault has leaned into friendliness and colour. The dashboard’s large floating lozenge is a strong visual element, and colour-matched trim pieces continue the exterior theme into the cabin. Renault’s small touches — a large, tactile hazard switch inspired by the original Twingo, colour-coded keys, and accessory covers — give the interior a crafted, fun feel without feeling gimmicky.

Practical details are well thought out. The Twingo includes 3D-printed removable accessories, a deep centre cupholder, a sensible parcel shelf and a subfloor for charging cables. Rear seats slide independently to trade passenger space for extra boot capacity; with the seats configured for passengers the cabin feels remarkably roomy for a car this size. Boot capacity sits around 360 litres in normal configuration — competitive for the segment.

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Technology and safety

Renault’s infotainment runs on a Google-based architecture. The system is slick, easy to pair with CarPlay or Android Auto, and displays playful graphics themed to the car. The Twingo also includes a broad safety kit: the transcript references 24 safety systems and cruise control even on entry trim, with a small programmable button that lets you mute or disable certain alerts if you prefer less chime. One-pedal driving and heated options appear on higher trims.

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Trims, accessories and practicality

There are two main trims called out: Evolution (the value-oriented spec with striking wheel covers and core safety kit) and Techno (with upgraded wheels, built-in Google tech and one-pedal driving). Renault has doubled down on modular, colour-matched accessories — clip-in bits, handy shopping bag hooks and changeable centre-console panels — which help owners personalise the car cheaply and easily.

The Twingo’s flexible rear seats are a genuine advantage for buyers who need occasional extra luggage space. Doors open wide for easy child-seat access, and the interior storage solutions (deep cupholders, removable trays) are practical for daily family use.

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Real-world use and driving feel

The Twingo’s light weight and small dimensions make it superb in the city. It’s nimble through tight streets, easy to park and efficient in stop-start traffic. One-pedal driving works well here; combined with four regen levels it gives you real control over city braking and energy recovery. The 18-inch wheel option looks great but will affect ride comfort and slightly reduce range — a trade-off buyers should consider.

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Pricing and value

Renault positioned the Twingo as an affordable city EV. The transcript indicates Renault promised a price under £20,000, and although exact local pricing and incentives vary, the intention is clear: this is an accessible, mass-market electric hatch rather than a premium niche model. Monthly finance deals will influence value for many buyers, but the overall aim is to make electric ownership straightforward and affordable.

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What we like — and what to consider

What we like

• Charming, distinctive design that mirrors the concept closely.
• Strong city packaging: sliding rear seats, 360-litre boot and smart storage.
• Efficient LFP battery and simple, reliable single-motor setup.
• Thoughtful, changeable accessories that add personality and utility.

What to consider

• The 80 hp motor and small battery make this a city car first — don’t expect long high-speed runs.
• Optional 18-inch wheels look great but will hurt ride comfort and range.
• Some lower-trim plastics remain basic — the Twingo’s strengths are personality and packaging, not plush luxury.

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Verdict

The Renault Twingo is a rare city car that mixes genuine practicality with personality. It keeps the concept car’s charm, adds smart modular accessories and sensible packaging, and delivers an efficient, affordable electric powertrain that fits urban life perfectly. If you want a small electric car that stands out without asking you to compromise on usability, the Twingo is a compelling option.