Renault Twingo E-Tech Review: Small Car, Big Personality

There are few cars that can make people smile before the wheels even start turning. The original Renault Twingo managed exactly that in the early 1990s, and now Renault has attempted the difficult task of recreating that magic for the electric age. After driving the new Twingo on the winding roads and narrow streets of Ibiza, and judging by the first impressions, it seems Renault has done much more than simply revive a familiar name. The new Twingo isn’t just another affordable EV. It feels like a carefully thought-out city car that understands what urban drivers actually need.

Text Anja Van Der Borght

Retro-inspired cars are everywhere these days, but the Twingo avoids becoming a caricature of itself. Instead of copying the original, Renault has reinterpreted its most recognisable features. The rounded headlights, cheerful proportions and clean surfaces instantly evoke memories of the first-generation model, while the modern lighting signature and flush details firmly place it in 2026. I would call it nostalgia design done right.

Unlike its predecessor, the new Twingo comes exclusively as a five-door hatchback, making it considerably more practical without losing its playful character. It remains compact enough to squeeze through tight city streets, yet looks surprisingly substantial thanks to its wider stance. It’s one of those rare cars that attracts positive attention without trying too hard.

We were impressed with how stable and confidence-inspiring it feels, even outside the city.

The interior is clever and fancy. Renault hasn’t chased luxury; it has focused on usability. The dashboard is simple, colourful and refreshingly free of unnecessary complexity. Physical controls remain where you expect them, while the digital displays are crisp and intuitive. Materials are mostly hard plastics, but they feel robust rather than cheap, and clever textures help create a youthful atmosphere. Think of the E-pop shifter in the shape of a lipstick tube. Embossed lettering on the floor mats, the ceiling, … An innovative centre armrest designed as a cushion, …
The biggest surprise is the space the new Twingo offers. Despite its compact footprint, the Twingo offers genuine room for four adults. Sliding rear seats allow owners to prioritize either passenger comfort or luggage space depending on the journey. It’s a solution that recalls the practicality of the original Twingo while feeling entirely modern. Rear legroom even surpasses some cars from the segment above. Storage compartments are equally well thought out, reinforcing the impression that this car was designed by people who actually live with city cars every day.

In a market increasingly filled with anonymous electric crossovers, the Twingo dares to have a personality.

Behind the wheel, the new Twingo is surprisingly mature. The biggest compliment you can give the new Twingo is that it never feels like a budget electric vehicle. With just 60 kW/82 hp, expectations remain modest. In reality, the instant torque typical of electric motors makes the little Renault feel lively in everyday traffic. Pulling away from traffic lights is effortless, while the modest weight helps the car feel eager and responsive. The roads around Ibiza offered an ideal mix of urban traffic, mountain climbs and flowing coastal roads. Here the Twingo demonstrated an impressive balance. It remains comfortable over broken pavement, absorbs speed bumps with ease and stays remarkably composed when the road starts twisting. We were impressed with how stable and confidence-inspiring it feels, even outside the city. Steering is light without feeling artificial, visibility is excellent and the exceptionally tight turning circle transforms parking into an almost effortless exercise. It won’t thrill performance enthusiasts, nor was it ever intended to. Instead, it succeeds by making every journey feel easy and enjoyable.

Renault clearly understands that this isn’t a long-distance touring car. The 27.5 kWh battery delivers a WLTP range of 263 km, depending on specification, which comfortably covers the daily driving habits of most motorists. Fast charging peaks at 50 kW. That’s not class-leading, but adequate considering the Twingo’s role as an urban companion. Some competitors offer larger batteries and greater range, but they also tend to be heavier, more expensive and less efficient around town. The Twingo deliberately chooses simplicity over specification-sheet bragging rights.

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The Verdict?
The new Renault Twingo captures something many modern cars have forgotten: charm. It doesn’t rely on excessive power, oversized screens or gimmicky technology. Instead, it focuses on intelligent packaging, approachable design and driving enjoyment at everyday speeds. Renault has managed to build a city car that feels grown-up without becoming dull, practical without looking utilitarian, and affordable without constantly reminding you of its price. In a market increasingly filled with anonymous electric crossovers, the Twingo dares to have a personality. It may not offer the longest range or the fastest charging, but it arguably delivers something more valuable: a genuine sense of fun every time you get behind the wheel.

Price for the Evolution-version from €19,500 onwards in Belgium.

Pros