You know when you’ve been Twingo’d

4:07pm Wednesday 5th March 2008

THE name Twingo is an amalgamation of the words twist', swing' and tango' providing a fun, chic product aimed firmly at the younger driver.

It is available as a two-model line-up, comprising the Dynamique 1.2 16V 75 and the GT 1.2 TCE 100.

Matched to a five-speed close-ratio manual gearbox, the punchy engine's maximum torque of 107lb ft at 3,000rpm gives it a very flexible performance.

In keeping with the Twingo's sporting character, handling is nice and tight and steering is razor sharp.

It may be the smallest Renault in the range, but inside, there's a spacious cabin with easily enough room for four adults. Extra boot space can also be freed up by sliding the two individual back seats.

Music is key to the spirit of the Twingo and advances in technology have been fully incorporated with the option of integrated Bluetooth Hands free telephone system as well as a TunePoint (anchorage connection point concealed in the glove box) for MP3 players making sure you can transfer music from your pocket to your car.

As well as the rather tasteless white racing stripes on the roof of the GT, additional extras include leather steering wheel and gear knob, air conditioning, automatic headlights and wipers, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors, GT-branded door sills and Sports suspension.

The new Twingo is fitted with an extensive array of standard active and passive safety features, including four airbags and ABS with EBD (electronic brake distribution), for a four-star Euro NCAP adult passenger impact protection result.

Factfile

Car: Renault Twingo 1.2 GT Turbo

Price: £9,995

Top speed: 117mph

0-62mph: 9.8 seconds

Fuel consumption: 57.8mpg

CO2 emissions: 140g/km

Verdict: Loved everything, apart from the white chavvy stripes.