What's the news?

Prices and specifications for the third generation Renault Twingo have been announced. The all-new, rear-engine, rear-wheel drive hatchback range starts at £9,495 and goes on sale in late September. Customers get a choice of three trim levels: Expression, Play and Dynamique.

Exterior

The days when the base model could be identified by unpainted bumpers, door handles and mirror shells have gone; all Twingos come with those items finished in the main body colour. There is also a rear spoiler and, at the front, LED daytime running lamps. Play models can be identified by two-tone black wheel trims rather than the grey items fitted to the Expression. Fifteen-inch alloys are fitted to the top, Dynamique, version along with shoulder-line decals and front fog lamps.

Interior

All models get a split folding two-seat rear bench seat and folding front passenger seat for a flexible interior layout. Other standard items include remote central locking, height adjustable steering wheel and a speed limiter. If you want air conditioning it comes as standard on the Play, along with a height adjustable driver's seat. The Dynamique gets a lane departure warning system, white instrument backlighting and leather trim for the steering wheel and gear lever.

Mechanicals

The three-cylinder petrol engine produces 70hp as standard, which gives a claimed 0-62mph time of 14.5 seconds and top speed of 94mph. Fuel economy is 62.8mpg with CO₂ emissions of 105g/km. On the Dynamique, stop-start is fitted, which improves economy by 4.5mpg and cuts emissions by 10g/km. A turbocharged, 90hp engine is also available on the top-spec Twingo. Key figures for this powertrain include 0-62mph in 10.8 seconds, 65.7mpg and 99g/km CO₂ emissions.

Anything else?

Prices for the Twingo Play and Dynamique are £9,995 and £10,995 respectively. Options include the £850 Sport Pack for the Dynamique 90hp model, which adds 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, side decals, red and black interior upholstery and alloy pedals. There are also themed 'Seats', 'Techno' and 'Convenience' packs that bundle themed items of extra equipment together at a lower cost than specifying the individual options.