The Renault Twingo III, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2019, represents a significant departure from its predecessors. While the Twingo name has been associated with Renault’s small city car offerings since 1992, the third generation, co-developed with Daimler AG (resulting in the shared platform with the Smart Fortwo), marked a shift towards a rear-wheel-drive layout and a focus on maneuverability. This iteration of the Twingo was primarily aimed at the European market, where compact city cars are highly popular, offering a unique driving experience and practical features within a diminutive footprint. The 0.9 TCe (92 Hp) EDC variant, produced from 2019 to 2021, combined a turbocharged three-cylinder engine with a dual-clutch automatic transmission, aiming for a balance of efficiency and convenience.
Renault Twingo III (Facelift 2019) 0.9 TCe EDC: An Overview
The Twingo III, and specifically the 2019 facelift, is a supermini hatchback designed for urban environments. Its compact dimensions and rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration provide exceptional agility and a tight turning radius, making it ideal for navigating congested city streets. The facelift brought subtle styling updates, improved interior materials, and enhanced equipment levels. The 0.9 TCe EDC model is characterized by its efficient turbocharged engine and the convenience of a dual-clutch automatic transmission, making it a popular choice for drivers seeking a practical and easy-to-drive city car.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Twingo III 0.9 TCe EDC is a 898 cc (54.8 cu. in.) inline three-cylinder engine, designated H4B 453. This engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to produce 92 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 135 Nm (99.57 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2500 rpm. The power-to-liter ratio is a respectable 102.4 Hp/l. The engine is paired with a six-speed Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) automatic transmission, which provides smooth and quick gear changes. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 12.1 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 11.5 seconds. The maximum speed is rated at 165 km/h (102.53 mph). Fuel consumption, measured under the WLTP cycle, is rated at 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg), with CO2 emissions ranging from 126-132 g/km. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system to further improve fuel efficiency.
Design & Features
The Twingo III is a five-door hatchback with a distinctive and playful design. The rear-engine layout allows for a relatively short front overhang, contributing to its nimble handling. The 2019 facelift brought minor cosmetic changes, including revised front and rear bumpers, updated headlight graphics, and new interior trim options. Inside, the Twingo offers seating for four passengers and a practical, though compact, interior space. The trunk offers 174 liters (6.14 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 980 liters (34.61 cu. ft.) when folded down. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power steering, and an infotainment system with smartphone connectivity. Safety features, crucial in the modern automotive landscape, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and driver/passenger airbags. The vehicle’s dimensions are 3615 mm (142.32 in.) in length, 1646 mm (64.8 in.) in width, and 1541 mm (60.67 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2492 mm (98.11 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Twingo |
| Generation | Twingo III (facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 0.9 TCe (92 Hp) EDC |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 126-132 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 92 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 135 Nm @ 2500 rpm (99.57 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H4B 453 |
| 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| 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 | 968 kg (2134.07 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1393 kg (3071.04 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 174 l (6.14 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 | 3615 mm (142.32 in.) |
| Width | 1646 mm (64.8 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Height | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2492 mm (98.11 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission EDC |
The Renault Twingo III 0.9 TCe EDC, while not officially sold in the United States, represents a compelling example of European city car design and engineering. Its rear-wheel-drive layout, efficient engine, and compact dimensions make it a practical and enjoyable vehicle for navigating urban environments.
