What is it?
The French manufacturer had a double treat for punters at the Frankfurt show in the guise of the Twingo Renaultsport 133 and Gordini models. As the name suggests, the RS produces 133hp from its naturally aspirated 1.6-litre engine and has a host of F1 inspired styling touches, including what Renault describes as 'an F1 style front blade in the front bumper'. The Twingo Gordini is a less performance focused car for those who want the looks but not the fuel/insurance bills. Finished in trademark Malta Blue with white stripes, the Gordini will initially be offered with a 100hp 1.2-litre TCe engine but should get the 133hp 1.6 at some point in its lifetime.
Why's it here?Described as the 'first mass production vehicle to be inspired by the Renault brand's new design identity', the Twingo faces stiff competition in the city car segment from the likes of the Fiat 500, new VW up! and the latest Kia Picanto. With all bar the Korean car having a 'halo' model in their line-up, Renault cannot afford to be left behind in what is a very style conscious segment.
Show stopper or floor filler? That's debatable. The refreshed Twingo will already attract enough attention on its own but the RS and Gordini models are sure to be the icing on the cake.
Paul Healy - 15 Sep 2011