Renault Twingo Arrives in Japan | Renault

Renault Twingo

Renault Twingo Arrives in Japan

Renault Japon has announced the launch of the new "Twingo," which made its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show two years ago. Sales will begin on September 15th.

Text by HORIGUCHI Yoshihiro (OPENERS)

Packaging Leveraging the RR Layout

Last year,Japan Premiere at Tokyo Motor ShowRenault's new "Twingo" has changed from the previous generation's FF layout to RR. The development of an entirely new platform was realized through a technical partnership with Daimler, and Daimler has already launched the new "Smart" in Japan.

The exterior design pays homage to the "Cinq Turbo," with its influence visible in the placement of the front LED fog lamps and the slant of the rear hatch. This design philosophy was inherited from the "Twin Run Concept" which appeared as a concept model.

The Japanese specification, introduced as the "Twingo Intense," has exterior dimensions of 3,620mm in length, 1,650mm in width, and 1,545mm in height. The wheelbase is 2,490mm. It is available only as a 5-door model and seats four people. A canvas top option is also available.

The powertrain features a 0.9-liter inline 3-cylinder turbocharged engine, producing a maximum output of 66kW (90ps) and a maximum torque of 135Nm (13.8kgm). The transmission is the 6-speed dual-clutch 6EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch), also found in models like the "Lutecia". It incorporates features such as a start-stop system (idling stop), an energy recovery system that charges the battery during deceleration, and an energy smart management system for optimal power supply, achieving a JC08 mode fuel economy of 21.7 km/ℓ.

The compact engine is tilted at a 49-degree angle and mounted beneath the rear luggage space. In normal mode, the luggage capacity is 174 liters, expanding to 219 liters in cargo position. Folding down the rear seatbacks reveals a space with a depth of 1,350mm and a volume of 980 liters. Furthermore, the front passenger seat can also be folded flat, allowing for the transport of long items up to 2,200mm.

The front section, without the engine, houses the battery and auxiliary equipment. This arrangement allows for greater freedom in positioning the suspension and steering compared to front-wheel-drive vehicles. Consequently, the front wheels have a maximum turning angle of 49 degrees, resulting in a minimum turning radius of 4.3 meters, comparable to that of a kei car.

The body is available in six colors, with prices starting at 1.89 million yen. The canvas top version is priced at 1.99 million yen.

Renault Twingo

Renault Twingo Arrives in Japan (2)

Limited Edition Model Commemorating MT Release

In its home market, there is also a specification with a 1.0-liter inline 3-cylinder naturally aspirated engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. This version will be sold as the "Twingo Cinq S" in a limited run of 50 units from July 14th to 31st. The "Cinq S" in the model name is a play on words, referencing the design inspiration from the new Twingo and the 5-speed manual transmission. The price, due to the difference in powertrain, is 1.69 million yen, lower than the catalog model Intense.

Additionally, based on the Intense model, the "Twingo Pack Sport" features exclusive side stripes, 16-inch wheels, and a special fabric and leatherette combination seat. This special edition model is also available for a limited time from July 14th to 31st, with only 50 units produced, priced at 1.99 million yen, 100,000 yen higher than the base model.

The venue for this announcement recreated a glamorous Parisian fashion show, symbolizing that the Twingo was created to be loved by the people of Paris. Specifically, it highlights its agility and maneuverability, allowing it to navigate narrow, historic cobblestone streets and busy roundabouts with ease. Secondly, it possesses a design that appeals to the aesthetic sensibilities of Parisians, a city renowned for its art and fashion.

The event also demonstrated the car's exceptional maneuverability by driving it around the confined stage.

Since sales for all models will commence on September 15th, a caravan tour of the vehicles that appeared at the announcement event is scheduled to travel across the country until then. Additionally, a campaign offering a chance to win a trip to Paris will be held.