The Renault Twingo II 1.2 16V TCE GT (100 Hp) is a supermini car produced by the French manufacturer Renault between 2007 and 2011. Representing the second generation of the Twingo, this model was primarily aimed at the European market, offering a blend of practicality, affordability, and a surprisingly sporty driving experience in its GT trim. While not officially sold in the United States, the Twingo II exemplifies the popular city car segment prevalent in Europe and Japan, prioritizing maneuverability and fuel efficiency.
Renault Twingo II: A European City Car
The Twingo, first introduced in 1992, quickly became a popular choice for urban drivers seeking a compact and economical vehicle. The second generation, launched in 2007, built upon this foundation with a more refined design, improved safety features, and a range of efficient engines. The 1.2 16V TCE GT variant, equipped with a turbocharged engine, was positioned as the performance-oriented model within the Twingo II lineup, appealing to drivers who desired a bit more excitement without sacrificing practicality.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Twingo II 1.2 16V TCE GT is a 1.2-liter, inline-four cylinder engine, designated the D4F. This engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output to 100 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 145 Nm (106.95 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4250 rpm. This provides a respectable power-to-weight ratio of 10.6 kg/Hp. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain. The combination of forced induction and a relatively lightweight chassis allows for a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) acceleration time of approximately 9.3 seconds, and a top speed of 114.95 mph (185 km/h). The engine’s specific output is 87 horsepower per liter, demonstrating a focus on efficiency without completely sacrificing performance. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.
Design & Features
The Twingo II is a three-door hatchback, offering seating for four passengers. Its compact dimensions – measuring 3602 mm (141.81 in) in length and 1665 mm (65.55 in) in width – make it exceptionally easy to maneuver in tight urban environments. The GT trim level included subtle styling enhancements, such as unique alloy wheels, sporty interior trim, and potentially revised suspension tuning. Inside, the Twingo II prioritized functionality and space efficiency. While not luxurious, the interior offered a comfortable and practical environment for everyday use. Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), contributing to improved braking performance. Trunk space is configurable, offering a minimum of 230 liters (8.12 cu. ft.) and expanding to 959 liters (33.87 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 1055 kg (2325.88 lbs) contributes to its nimble handling and fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Twingo |
| Generation | Twingo II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 16V TCE GT (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 4250 rpm (106.95 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4F |
| Engine displacement | 1149 cm3 (70.12 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 69 mm (2.72 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.8 mm (3.02 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1055 kg (2325.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 355 kg (782.64 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 230 l (8.12 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 959 l (33.87 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 3602 mm (141.81 in.) |
| Width | 1665 mm (65.55 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2367 mm (93.19 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.55 m (34.61 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Renault Twingo II 1.2 16V TCE GT, while never officially available in the US market, represents a well-rounded and efficient supermini that was popular in Europe. Its combination of compact size, turbocharged engine, and practical features made it a compelling choice for urban drivers seeking a fun and economical vehicle.
