If you're familiar with the first Renault Twingo you'll know that it was a space efficient city car with what can only be called a 'cute' character that appeals on the whole to the fairer sex. At this year's
Paris Show Renault unveiled a surprise new concept car, previewing next year's Twingo replacement and if the final production version is as stylish as the Twingo Concept, buyers will be flocking to the showrooms. It is also likely that the car will be imported into Britain.
Being a show car, the Renault Twingo Concept is more extravagant than a likely showroom model is to be, but its basic style is a good indication of what is to come. The Twingo obviously takes cues from the
new Clio and Megane, but has no fussiness in its design. Front and rear lights may be stylised in comparison to the final model, but their shape is expected to remain, as is the side profile of the concept. Twin exit exhausts and massive wheelarch extensions are expected to be for the show car only, with only a slight chance of a RenaultSport version in the future.
Indicating just how much Renault wants this car to appeal to younger buyers is an interior crammed with the very latest technology, including a variety of ways the occupants can listen to music. Passengers can even mix their music from their iPod with other sources such as the USB ports thanks to a built-in mixing desk. Continuing the theme are speakers that face outwards when the rear hatch is open and funky lighting to set the mood. Very cool.
Shane O' Donoghue - 6 Oct 2006