Renault Twingo Gunning for Cheapest EV Status

The second-generation Renault Twingo will sell for less than 20,000 Euros (roughly $NZ35k), at least as a base model when it goes on sale in 2026. That will put it on a par with the Stellantis weenie, the Leapmotor T03. 

Twingo hasn’t been on sale for some time in the UK but it is set to return with neo-retro styling and EV power. This is yet another electric Renault that features styling cues borrowed from classic last century models. Megane and Scenic are undergoing the same transformation, as have Renault 5 and 4. 

Renault is about to unveil the new Twingo in prototype form at the Paris Motor Show. It will almost certainly be a twin for the Twingo concept car the company showed off in late 2023. So cue the rounded headlights, short bonnet and three fake vents like those on the original 1992 two-door car.

Classic round door handles as on the original make a return, now illuminated in the EV. New Twingo has the convenience of five doors, the rear door handles blacked out in the C-pillar. There’s also a glass roof and protruding rear lights, while Twingo lettering features on the hatch lid. 

Development of the new Twingo is being led by Ampere that designs, engineers and produces small EVs for Renault. Production will be in Europe but Chinese companies are helping with component supply.