The Renault Twingo III GT 0.9 TCe (110 Hp) EDC is a city car produced by the French manufacturer Renault from 2016 to 2018. Representing the third generation of the Twingo, this model marked a significant departure from its predecessors with its rear-wheel-drive layout and compact dimensions. While the Twingo was never officially sold in the United States, it was a popular choice in Europe, particularly in urban environments, due to its maneuverability and fuel efficiency. The GT trim level, equipped with the 0.9 TCe engine and EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) automatic transmission, offered a sportier driving experience compared to the standard Twingo models.
Renault Twingo III GT: A Unique City Car
The Twingo III was developed in collaboration with Daimler AG, resulting in a shared platform with the Smart Fortwo and Smart Forfour. This partnership allowed Renault to reduce development costs and offer a unique vehicle in the competitive city car segment. The Twingo III’s rear-wheel-drive configuration was a deliberate choice, intended to maximize interior space and improve handling. The GT variant, with its turbocharged engine and dual-clutch transmission, aimed to appeal to drivers seeking a more engaging and dynamic driving experience within the constraints of a small urban vehicle.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Twingo III GT is the H4Bt 898 cc (54.8 cu. in.) inline three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine produces 110 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 170 Nm (125.39 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler contribute to improved performance and responsiveness. Power per liter is a notable 122.5 Hp/l. The engine is paired with a six-speed Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) automatic transmission, which provides quick and smooth gear changes. This powertrain combination allows the Twingo III GT to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 10.4 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph in 9.9 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of 183 km/h (113.71 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 9.3 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Renault Twingo III is a compact hatchback available in both three-door and five-door configurations. Its distinctive design features a rounded silhouette, large headlights, and a prominent Renault logo. The GT trim level includes several visual enhancements, such as unique alloy wheels, sporty body styling, and interior accents. Inside, the Twingo III offers a surprisingly spacious cabin for its size, thanks to the rear-wheel-drive layout which frees up floor space. Standard features include air conditioning, power steering, and a basic audio system. Safety features, crucial for a modern city car, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and multiple airbags. The trunk space ranges from a minimum of 188 liters (6.64 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 980 liters (34.61 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The Twingo III prioritizes practicality and ease of use in urban environments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Twingo |
| Generation | Twingo III |
| Type (Engine) | GT 0.9 TCe (110 Hp) EDC |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 132 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 2000 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H4Bt |
| Engine displacement | 898 cm3 (54.8 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.2 mm (2.84 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 73.1 mm (2.88 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1028 kg (2266.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1412 kg (3112.93 lbs.) |
| Max load | 384 kg (846.58 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 188 l (6.64 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 980 l (34.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 3595 mm (141.54 in.) |
| Width | 1646 mm (64.8 in.) |
| Height | 1554 mm (61.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2492 mm (98.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1452 mm (57.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission EDC |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/45 R17 78H; 205/40 R17 80H |
| Wheel rims size | 6Jx17 ET38; 7J x 17 ET37 |
The Renault Twingo III GT 0.9 TCe EDC represents a clever and innovative approach to the city car segment. Its rear-wheel-drive layout, turbocharged engine, and compact dimensions made it a unique and enjoyable vehicle to drive in urban environments, even if it remained largely unavailable to American consumers.
