The Renault Twingo III, particularly the facelifted version released in 2019, represents a significant departure from its predecessors. This iteration of the Twingo, a city car produced by the French manufacturer Renault, is notable for its rear-wheel-drive layout and compact dimensions. While not officially sold in the United States, the Twingo has been a popular choice in Europe, especially in urban environments, due to its maneuverability and fuel efficiency. The 2019 facelift brought styling updates and refinements to the already distinctive third-generation model, focusing on enhancing its appeal within the competitive city car segment.
Renault Twingo III (Facelift 2019) 0.9 TCe: An Overview
The Twingo III, launched in 2014, was developed in collaboration with Daimler AG, resulting in a shared platform with the Smart Fortwo and Smart Forfour. This collaboration allowed Renault to offer a rear-wheel-drive city car, a configuration uncommon in this class. The 2019 facelift focused on modernizing the exterior design, updating the interior with improved technology, and refining the engine options. The 0.9 TCe (92 Hp) variant, powered by a turbocharged three-cylinder engine, was a key offering in the Twingo lineup, balancing performance with fuel economy.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2019 Renault Twingo III 0.9 TCe is the H4B 453 engine, a 898 cc (54.8 cu. in.) turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine. This engine produces 92 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 135 Nm (99.57 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2500 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler contribute to a respectable power-to-weight ratio of 10.2 kg/Hp. The engine’s relatively small displacement and turbocharging contribute to its fuel efficiency. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.1 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 12.4 seconds. The Twingo 0.9 TCe has a maximum speed of 165 km/h (102.53 mph). The rear-wheel-drive configuration, while unusual for a city car, provides a surprisingly engaging driving experience, particularly in urban environments where maneuverability is key.
Design & Features
The Renault Twingo III is a five-door hatchback designed with a focus on practicality and urban usability. Its compact dimensions – measuring 3615 mm (142.32 in.) in length and 1646 mm (64.8 in.) in width – make it easy to navigate narrow city streets and park in tight spaces. The 2019 facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior, including revised front and rear bumpers, updated headlight and taillight designs, and new wheel options. Inside, the Twingo offers seating for four passengers and a trunk space ranging from 174 liters (6.14 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 980 liters (34.61 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Standard features typically included ABS, electric power steering, and a Start & Stop system to improve fuel efficiency. The interior design prioritized functionality and ease of use, with a focus on providing a comfortable and connected driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Twingo |
| Generation | Twingo III (facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 0.9 TCe (92 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.4-5.5 l/100 km (43.6 – 42.8 US mpg, 52.3 – 51.4 UK mpg, 18.5 – 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 121-123 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 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 | 940 kg (2072.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1365 kg (3009.31 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
The Renault Twingo III 0.9 TCe (facelift 2019) remains a compelling option for those seeking a nimble, fuel-efficient, and uniquely styled city car, particularly within the European market. Its rear-wheel-drive layout and compact size contribute to a driving experience that sets it apart from many of its competitors.
