2009 Renault Twingo

NEW TWINGO: THE LIVELY LITTLE CAR THAT FITS YOUR LIFE

A longstanding player in the small car segment, Renault has sold more than 2.4 million Twingos since the model's launch in April 1993. The release of New Twingo, which will go on sale in June 2007, forms part of Renault Commitment 2009 and the introduction of 26 new cars, including 13 aimed at conquering new markets. New Twingo boosts Renault's presence in the small car segment alongside Clio Campus, Modus and Clio III. Thanks to its chassis derived from the B-segment and a powertrain range featuring the new TCE (Turbo Control Efficiency) 100hp petrol engine, which offers class-leading performance and fuel consumption, New Twingo's superior dynamics set it apart from its predecessor. New Twingo also targets a broader, more international clientele thanks
to the distinctly dynamic styling of the GT version and the robust lines of the other versions, plus the availability for the first time of right-hand drive models for the British market and the introduction of a benchmark 1.5 dCi diesel engine.New Twingo stands out as a further illustration of Renault's know-how in the domain of optimizing cabin space and interior versatility, by making full use of the car's compact dimensions (length: 3.60m). The interior is extremely modular thanks to its four independent sliding seats. Meanwhile, New Twingo's boot volume is the biggest in its
segment, ranging from 165 to 285 litres (VDA) with all four seats in place and extendable to a full 959 litres with a two-seater layout. With the front passenger seatback tipped forward, New Twingo can even carry loads of up to 2.15m in length.

In keeping with the 'my Twingo' philosophy, buyers can customize their new car – inside and out – thanks to a range of decorative decals for the exterior and a selection of innovative accessories such as the Organizer Box and Makeup Box for the interior. Safety was at the forefront of the New Twingo design team's priorities. Their work covers all aspects of this key area, from positive, predictable roadholding and accident prevention systems to occupant protection in case of impact. New Twingo's robust construction, braking and suspension performance, ergonomics and equipment from the next segment up put the car at the top end of the small city car segment in terms of safety and ensure its ability to pass even the most stringent crash tests. Numerous comfort and safety features not previously available for Twingo have also been introduced, including lateral airbags, automatic climate control, cruise control/speed limiter, height-adjustable steering wheel and automatic headlamp activation, etc. New Twingo is nonetheless very affordable, both to buy and to run. Powered by the 1.5 dCi engine, it combines miserly fuel consumption and equally low CO2 emissions of 113g/km. Indeed, CO2 emissions do not exceed 140g/km even with the most powerful engine and New Twingo makes a valuable contribution to the '120-140g/km of CO2' pledge of Renault Commitment 2009.

New Twingo is the first model to be renewed within the framework of Renault Commitment 2009 and had to meet an extremely exacting brief in terms of quality and profitability. The new car will be produced at the Novo Mesto factory in Slovenia.



Renault – a big player in the small car segment
As a volume carmaker, Renault has long been recognized for the quality and inventiveness of its products in the small car segment and New Twingo is no exception. Since its unveiling at the 1992 Paris Motor Show, Twingo has revolutionized the world of city cars. In addition to its universally acclaimed features, Twingo also made an indelible mark thanks to its innovative and arresting advertising campaigns which contributed to forging its strong ersonality. In response to shifts in customer demand across the span of its 14-year life, Twingo took the form of seven different collections and a long list of striking special and limited editions.

New Twingo – a complementary addition to Renault's A/B-segment line-up
The European small car market has been reasonably stable since 2000, yet that hasn't prevented it from being extremely competitive, owing to the presence of the traditional European makes and, more recently, the advent of newcomers from Asia. Even so, Renault stands out as a major player in the segment and New Twingo reinforces the brand's line-up with a view to optimizing its coverage of this end of the market. With a length of 3.60 metres,
New Twingo is a practical, communicative, compact car. Meanwhile, Clio Campus (length: 3.80m) provides versatility and low running costs, while Modus (also 3.80m) focuses on family buyers and features the lines and modularity of a small MPV. Last but not least, Clio III packs a big car spec into a total length that remains below the 4-metre mark.

Appeals to new customers and markets
New Twingo's mission is twofold, the first being to build on its ever-growing reputation. In France and Germany, 47 per cent of Twingo owners were loyal to the car and replaced it with another Twingo. The second aspect of the model's mission involves reaching out to a new clientele seeking a safe, versatile, practical and feisty package with compact dimensions. Onethird of European small car buyers are aged under 35, including 11 per cent who are under 25. Amongst its new targets, New Twingo seeks to appeal to this young clientele, essentially urban-dwellers hooked on new technologies and for whom the car is seen as a symbol of freedom, as well as an extension of the world in which they live. New Twingo covers all these criteria thanks to its unique personality and unprecedented connectivity for its segment, not to mention its inherent versatility, driver appeal, travelling comfort and dynamic, reassuring handling.

The Únited Kingdom is Europe's fourth biggest market in the city car segment, while the countries of southern Europe – notably Italy – are drawn by agile, versatile small cars with a strong personality and which are inexpensive to buy and run. Now available in right-hand drive form and boasting more attractive lines than ever, New Twingo meets both these demands. At the same time, nothing precludes it from going on to tackle other markets worldwide. The New Twingo saga is only in its early days…

An assertive personality underpinned by dynamic styling
The GT version of New Twingo features dynamic looks while the lines of its other variants exude an unmistakable sense of robustness. Its overall design echoes the key themes suggested by Renault Twingo Concept when it was unveiled at last year's Paris Show. Inside, its comfortable, occupant-friendly cabin enables all owners to identify
easily with the car.

Dynamic looks and a personalized range
Thanks to its long bonnet, the robust stance of its rear flanks and its fluid side lines, New Twingo boasts a modern, pleasing design. Its long wheelbase (2,367mm) and extremely short front and rear overhang dimensions exude an attractive blend of elegance and robustness, while its 14-inch wheels (or 15-inch wheels according to version) ensure that it sits squarely on the road.

New Twingo's front end communicates an impression of warmth and dynamism. The central crease of its long bonnet, its 'soft nose', grille-less bumper and bright headlamp mask give the Access/Authentique, Expression, Privilège and Initiale versions of New Twingo the cheery allure of an affable city car. This prevailing good-natured feel is echoed by the air intake which is set in the lower part of the bumper and flanked by the foglamps.

Meanwhile, the Dynamique and GT versions place the emphasis on New Twingo's dynamic appeal. Their design is racier and both versions come with a specific front bumper, while the foglamps are picked out by a satin grey surround. These two variants of New Twingo feature a more assertive demeanour for a car of its segment, an impression reinforced by the gloss black headlamp masks and satin grey exterior mirror housings.

The gap between the rear edge of the bonnet and the windscreen accentuates New Twingo's distinctive lines. Its laser-brazed roof – a production innovation – contributes to the seamless fluidity of its lines, while the sensation of dynamism extends along the sides thanks to the practical, fully integrated door handles and body colour side protective mouldings (according to version).

Again according to version, the rear bumper houses the rear parking proximity sensors and includes protective beading. The GT version of New Twingo is distinguishable by its aluminiumfinish rear spoiler and chrome exhaust tailpipe.

A cabin to match individual tastes and requirements
New Twingo's intuitive cabin layout features the same simplicity and practicality as its predecessor, while also communicating an unmistakable sense of comfort and well-being. The materials employed boast enhanced quality and the dashboard, which is available in two colours (dark or light grey), places the accent very much on stowage. The sensation of space and comfort is amplified by the large panoramic electric sunroof (length: 666mm - width:
497mm/front seats, 405mm/rear seats) which is controlled by a one-touch rotary switch and incorporates an anti-pinch function as standard.

Six trim levels for genuine 'a la carte' choice (*)
In order to meet customer demand as closely as possible, New Twingo will be available from its launch in a choice of six trim levels – Access/Authentique, Expression, Privilège, Initiale, Dynamique and GT – which can be associated with the different equipment options and powertrain choices. New Twingo's 'a la carte' philosophy permits buyers to create a car that matches their individual tastes and needs. Another important aspect of the new car's appeal is the availability of a long list of equipment from the next segment up never previously seen on Twingo (automatic climate control, cruise control/speed limiter, rear parking proximity sensor, etc.).

The Access and Authentique trim levels both stand for simplicity, but that low figure doesn't mean that either comfort or safety have been compromized. Indeed, the entry-level Access version comes with ABS, Emergency Brake Assist and driver- and passenger- airbags. In addition, the Authentique trim level includes electric windows, power steering, deadlocking and a height-adjustable steering wheel, a new feature compared with Twingo. On the outside, to protect it from the hustle and bustle of city motoring, the side protective mouldings and exterior
mirrors are black.

The cabin finish of the Expression trim level places the accent on occupant-friendly features, joie de vivre and enhanced versatility. The front passenger seatback can be tipped forward to form a small table, while the independent rear seats are adjustable fore and aft. The Privilège trim level (according to country) places the emphasis on travelling comfort. The particularly cosy interior features independent sliding rear seats, while its impressive safety equipment level includes side airbags.

As is the case across the Renault range, the Initiale trim level stands out through its use of elegant materials and the availability of a wide range of equipment essentially unprecedented in New Twingo's segment. Equipment includes rain and light sensors, rear parking proximity sensors, cruise control/speed limiter (optional according to country) and foglamps. (*) NB: equipment listed can differ from one country to another. The range of models equipped with right-hand drive differs from that of left-hand drive models.

The cabin features predominantly light hues, while the light leather upholstery, leather gearlever knob and steering wheel and front and rear mats add a further touch of elegance and refinement. The exterior boasts metallic paint, 15-inch alloy wheels, body coloured side protective mouldings and exterior mirrors, plus sill protectors.

The Dynamique and GT trim levels feature a racier ambience in keeping with their exterior styling.

The Dynamique trim level is based on sporty design details, with orange upholstery stitching, a dark grey dashboard and a rev-counter. The exterior comes with sports bumpers and a bespoke grille with foglamps picked out in a satin grey surround. The body colour exterior mirrors contrast with the distinctive black B-post strip. New Twingo Dynamique sits on 14-inch wheels with specific wheel trims.

With its assertive lines, the GT version is even more dynamic and stands out due to its sports bumpers complete with GT branding, body colour side protective mouldings, 15-inch Noxiane aluminium alloy sports wheels, chrome tailpipe, GT-branded sill, rear lip spoiler and satin grey exterior mirror housings. Inside, in addition to the leather steering wheel and gear lever knob, the GT trim level features practically the same equipment as the Initiale trim level, while extratinted windows are available as an option.

Roomy, practical and occupant-friendly
New Twingo stands out as a worthy successor to Twingo. Its three doors open to reveal four comfortable seats. A genuine small tourer, it places the emphasis on travelling comfort, modularity and interior space thanks to numerous innovative stowage spaces, a layout based on four sliding seats and unrivalled boot space for its segment.

New Twingo – compact and agile
With an overall length of 3,601mm, width of 1,640mm, wheelbase of 2,367mm and height of 1,472mm, New Twingo's compact dimensions make it ideal for city motoring. The extra 170mm in length that sets it apart from its predecessor have been employed to provide additional safety performance and cabin space for its occupants without detracting from its main objective which is to remain easy to control in all circumstances, with a small turningcircle diameter (between kerbs) of 9.85m (up to 10.55m according to wheel size).

Even more interior space
Twingo stood out as the small car benchmark in terms of interior space and New Twingo takes this a significant step further. Indeed, Renault's engineers have paid particular attention to optimizing all available cabin space, which of course goes hand in hand with enhanced travelling comfort. New Twingo exudes an extraordinary sense of roominess for its class, an impression emphasised by the car's vast glazed area which not only ensures a spacious,
brightly-lit cabin but also improves all-round visibility compared with Twingo. This impression of space is backed up by the figures, since New Twingo offers a generous extra 26mm of headroom, while rear passenger kneeroom has also been extended by 30mm. Meanwhile, rear passenger legroom (increased to 226mm) is equivalent to that of vehicles from the next segment up.

Spacious and modular
New Twingo's versatility enables it to meet all types of needs. According to version, it features either a fixed rear benchseat or two independent sliding rear seats. With the seatback in the normal position, the under-parcel shelf boot volume of versions equipped with a fixed rear benchseat is a generous, class-leading 230 litres (VDA). With the rear benchseat folded down, this figure increases to 951 litres (VDA). The rear seats of versions equipped with four independent seats can slide fore and aft over a distance of 220mm, with a ratchet stop every 10mm. The seatback can be reclined to one of five positions, from 25 to 35 degrees. According to layout, the boot volume of these versions extends from 165 litres (VDA) – with rear seats in their rearmost position, a layout that favours rear passenger comfort – to 285 litres (VDA) – with rear seats in their foremost position to favour boot space.

With the independent rear seats tipped forward to form an 'estate car' layout, a full 959 litres (VDA) of boot space is available. A pushchair can be carried in the boot whatever the position of the rear seats, which can also be folded forward to form a table. For even greater modularity, the front passenger seatback can also be tipped forward to permit loads of up to 2.15m in length to be carried, a segment best. When the front passenger seatback is tipped forward (according to versions), the driver and/or rear passengers can use it to hold objects securely
and within easy reach thanks to a netted map pocket. This feature also facilitates access for rear passengers, as well as the installation of a child seat in the rear.

New Twingo makes life easier for its occupants. Its modular cabin has 11 well thought-out stowage spaces, most of which are within easy reach of the driver. In addition to the lidded 13-litre passenger-side glovebox, New Twingo comes with 2.2-litre door bins, a 1.7-litre stowage space on the dashboard cowling in front of the driver, stowage to the left of the steering column (0.8 litres), two cup-holders and stowage space at the foot of the centre console, plus a 3.7-litre bin underneath the driver's seat (according to version). At the rear, the netted map pocket on
the front passenger seatback and space in the rear side trim provide a further 2.5 litres of stowage to make a grand total of 28.4 litres, that is to say an additional 16 litres over Twingo. The door bins can each house a 1.5-litre bottle.

The accent on travelling comfort
New Twingo is very much about passenger comfort. The driving environment has been carefully thought through to ensure first class ergonomics, starting with the steering wheel – now height-adjustable – which is tipped an extra 5 degrees towards the driver compared with Twingo. The pedal assembly comes with a footrest, while the gearlever has also been repositioned to make sure it falls perfectly to hand. The density of the foam employed for the
seats has been selected to hold passengers even more firmly, but comfortably, in place. The driver's seat is height-adjustable (according to version) and enables drivers to choose a position suited to their particular physique. Visibility has also been improved, notably in terms of head-up vision for taller drivers who consequently benefit from significantly improved driving comfort. Tall occupants also benefit from the new car's generous headroom which makes getting in and out of the car easier than ever .

Access to the rear seats has been simplified thanks to an all-new design. The practically positioned lever situated on the upper part of the front seatbacks (according to version) enables the seat to be tipped forward with ease. On the driver's side, the mechanism is designed to return the seat to its initial position when the seatback is raised again. In order to minimize the necessity to bend the body and also facilitate head clearance when climbing onboard, the aperture itself has been enlarged compared with Twingo, which is also of benefit of course for rear passengers when they swing out their feet.

The dashboard instrumentation comprises an LCD speedometer and a display for the 18 warning lights located in the driver's direct line of sight. Entry-level finishes include a handy cubby to hold a mobile phone and loose change.

The Dynamique and GT versions are equipped with a rev-counter (optional on other versions according to country) which is mounted on the steering column, while a digital radio display takes the place of the aforementioned cubby.

Source - Renault

RUNNING WITH THE PACK…RENAULT RELEASES 'XV DE FRANCE' LIMITED EDITION VERSIONS OF TWINGO, CLIO AND CLIO ESTATE

Within the framework of its partnership with the FFR and with the French national rugby team, Renault has decided to mark the start of the 2009 RBS 6 Nations with the introduction of 'XV de France' limited edition versions of Twingo, five-door Clio and Clio Estate.
- These three limited editions feature 'XV de France' badging on the sides and hatch, while the rugby theme has been carried over to the cabin in the form of 'XV de France' embroidered seats and carpet mats. There are also specific styling differences such as aluminium alloy wheels and extra-tinted rear glass, plus a leather steeringwheel and gear lever knob.




- The try has been converted on the environmental front, too, since all the available engines comply with the three criteria required to qualify for the Renault eco² signature.
- Twingo, Clio and Clio Estate 'XV de France' are available exclusively in France. They have been on sale since January 5, with prices starting at €12,550, €16,200 and €16,850 respectively.
- The grand slam package continues with a supporters' pack for the forthcoming RBS 6 Nations tournament.
-* Renault has been the official automobile partner of the French rugby board (Fédération Française de Rugby, FFR)
and of the French national rugby team since January 10, 2008.

Renault: a long-term commitment to rugby
To mark the start of the 2009 RBS 6 Nations, Renault has released 'XV de France' limited edition versions of Twingo, five-door Clio and Clio Estate which will appeal to all those who share the values of the game. These three models reinforce Renault's long-term commitment to the game which follows a partnership agreement sealed on January 10, 2008, with France's rugby board (FFR) and with the French national squad for a period of five years. Renault's vehicles, from Twingo to Vel Satis, are the official vehicles of the French National Team. This association extends all the way to local level via Renault's sales network which stands out as the most powerful in France, with some 5,500 sales outlets across the country. Indeed, some local partnerships have been signed with a long list of rugby clubs, from the Top 14 premier category to Fédérale 1 and Honneur levels.



Three '100 per cent rugby' limited editions:
Twingo, Clio (five-door version) and Clio Estate feature the distinctive signature of the 'XV de France' in the form of exterior badging on the sides and hatch to provide an immediately visible tie with the French national rugby team. The 'rugby spirit' theme has been carried over the interior, too. The 'XV de France' signature is visible on the seats, as well as on the front and rear carpet mats, and even the key housing in the colours of the French squad allows owners to express their support for the national side.

Extensively equipped
These comprehensively-equipped limited edition versions are based on the Dynamique equipment level of each model, and comfort features include manual climate control, a radio-CD player, electric front windows and electric exterior mirrors. On the safety front, foglamps and additional cornering lights (except Twingo) deliver enhanced night-time vision and visibility in fog. Specific styling differences such as aluminium alloy wheels, extra-tinted rear glass, a leather steeringwheel and a leather gear lever knob add an exclusive touch.

The environment: a converted try
Twingo, Clio and Clio Estate 'XV de France' comply with all three of the criteria necessary to qualify for the Renault eco² signature. TCe 100 and dCi 85 power is available for Clio and Clio Estate 'XV de France', while Twingo 'XV de France' can be ordered with the 1.2 16V 75hp, 1.2 LEV 75 or dCi 65 engines. The latter two powerplants qualify for the €700 eco-bonus scheme in operation in France.

A grand slam package for fans
During the forthcoming RBS 6 Nations tournament, the three cars come with a special French team supporters' pack. This pack includes a man's polo shirt, a lady's polo shirt, a towel, an umbrella with rugby ball-design handle and a black canvas sports bag, ideal for fans of the French side to show their support.

Source - Renault