Used Renault Twingo

What to know before buying: Renault Twingo

From 4 video reviews and 1 press test · updated 24/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The first-generation Twingo is a simple city car with light controls, good visibility and a sliding, folding rear seat.[1][3]First generation
• The third-generation Twingo excels in town: its raised driving position gives good visibility, while the large front-wheel steering angle makes turning and parking easy.[2][4][5]Third generation
• Despite its short body, the third generation has a roomy cabin; folding the rear seats and front passenger seat creates space for long items.[2][4][5]Third generation
• The compromises become clearer outside town: the car can bob over bumps, while wind noise becomes noticeable at higher speeds.[4]one sourceThird generation

Typical faults

• The inspected 2000 first-generation example had a broken window; check the condition and operation of every window.[1]one sourceFirst generation

  2000–2000

• The tested 2000 1.2-litre car reached 100 km/h in 16.52 seconds rather than the stated 13.4; the reviewer concluded that the engine was no longer producing its expected power.[1]one sourceFirst generation

  2000–2000 · 1.2 petrol

Which engine and version to take

• For the third generation, the 0.9-litre TCe 90 is the better choice for regular out-of-town driving: sources find it sufficiently lively on motorways and a good match for the car.[2][4][5]Third generation

What to avoid

• Avoid the third-generation 1.0-litre 70 hp engine if motorway use is frequent: the review found it out of its depth there and needing heavy revs for overtaking.[4]one sourceThird generation

What to check at the inspection

• On a first-generation car, inspect every window and use the test drive to confirm that the 1.2-litre engine delivers its expected performance.[1]one sourceFirst generation
• On the third generation, check access to fluid fillers: the front panel must be removed for washer fluid, while oil access is beneath the boot carpet and six screws.[2]one sourceThird generation
• When testing a third-generation TCe 90, assess its response when pulling away: one review reported noticeable turbo lag followed by a sudden surge.[4]one sourceThird generation
• If the car has the panoramic roof, sit in the rear before buying: the review found that it noticeably reduced headroom for a taller passenger.[4]one sourceThird generation
• Check the equipment of the specific third-generation car: entry-level versions may lack air conditioning and driver-seat height adjustment.[4][5]Third generation

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]Branco Agterberg — Why the Renault Twingo is Loved by Some and Hated by Others · ▶ video
2. [2]apollo.lv — Pirmie iespaidi: Renault Twingo · press
3. [3]idriveaclassic — Renault Twingo - a cool, small city car from the 90s! · ▶ video
4. [4]Carbuyer — Renault Twingo hatchback 2014 - Carbuyer · ▶ video
5. [5]Which? — Renault Twingo 2014 - Which? car first drive · ▶ video

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