The Renault Twingo III, produced from 2014 to 2018, represents a significant departure from its predecessors, particularly in its powertrain layout. While the first two generations of the Twingo were front-wheel drive, the third generation adopted a rear-wheel drive configuration, a decision heavily influenced by its collaboration with Daimler AG, resulting in a shared platform with the Smart Fortwo. This iteration of the Twingo aimed to revitalize the city car segment with a focus on maneuverability, efficiency, and a distinctive driving experience. Primarily sold in Europe, the Twingo III offered a compelling alternative to other small hatchbacks, emphasizing its unique rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive setup as a key selling point.
Renault Twingo III: A Unique City Car
The Twingo III occupies the city car segment, designed for urban environments where space is at a premium. Its compact dimensions and nimble handling make it well-suited for navigating congested streets and tight parking spaces. The model discussed here, the 1.0 SCe (70 Hp) start&stop, represents the base engine option, prioritizing fuel economy and affordability. The “start&stop” system, a standard feature, further enhances its efficiency by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Twingo III 1.0 SCe is powered by a naturally aspirated 999 cc inline three-cylinder engine. This engine produces 70 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 91 Nm (67.12 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2850 rpm. While not designed for outright speed, the engine provides adequate power for city driving. The rear-wheel drive configuration, coupled with a five-speed manual transmission, contributes to a surprisingly engaging driving experience, offering a level of agility not typically found in this class of vehicle. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) takes 14.5 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 13.8 seconds. The Twingo III achieves a maximum speed of 151 km/h (93.83 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined fuel consumption rated at 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 95 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Twingo III is a three-door hatchback with seating for four passengers. Its design is characterized by a playful and modern aesthetic, with rounded edges and a distinctive front fascia. The rear-engine layout allows for a remarkably tight turning circle, making it exceptionally easy to maneuver in urban environments. Inside, the Twingo III offers a functional and practical interior, with a focus on maximizing space. Standard features include ABS (Anti-lock braking system) and electric power steering. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 940 kg (2072.35 lbs) contributes to its nimble handling. The interior, while basic in the 1.0 SCe trim, is designed for durability and ease of use. The Twingo’s compact dimensions – a length of 3595 mm (141.54 in.), a width of 1647 mm (64.84 in.), and a height of 1557 mm (61.3 in.) – further emphasize its suitability for city driving.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Twingo |
| Generation | Twingo III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 SCe (70 Hp) start&stop |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 95 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 151 km/h (93.83 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.4 kg/Hp, 74.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.3 kg/Nm, 96.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 70 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 91 Nm @ 2850 rpm (67.12 lb.-ft. @ 2850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H4D |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.7 l (3.91 US qt | 3.26 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.2 l (8.66 US qt | 7.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 940 kg (2072.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1360 kg (2998.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 420 kg (925.94 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 3595 mm (141.54 in.) |
| Width | 1647 mm (64.84 in.) |
| Height | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2492 mm (98.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1428 mm (56.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1424 mm (56.06 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 165/65 R15; 185/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
In conclusion, the Renault Twingo III 1.0 SCe (70 Hp) start&stop offered a unique and compelling package in the city car segment. Its rear-wheel drive layout, combined with its compact dimensions and fuel-efficient engine, made it a practical and enjoyable vehicle for urban driving. While not a performance car, its nimble handling and distinctive character set it apart from its competitors.
