Earlier this week, low-resolution photos of Renault’s new Twingo E-Tech surfaced online, giving the world an early preview of the production-ready version of the much-discussed 2023 concept. Those leaked images hinted that the playful charm of the prototype had made it into the showroom version more or less intact, which immediately generated plenty of enthusiasm. However, while the leak showed off the looks, it left a number of questions unanswered regarding specifications, practicality, and performance. Now, Renault has officially unveiled the car and shared full technical details, giving us a much clearer sense of what this compact electric hatchback offers.
In terms of exterior styling, Renault has remained very close to the concept’s aesthetic direction. The Twingo E-Tech features distinctive, cartoon-like daytime running lights and a retro-inspired shape that nods back to the original Twingo from 1993. Some may debate the merits of its more conventional production door handles compared to the flush handles on the concept model, but overall, the design appears cohesive, expressive, and full of character. The finished product manages to capture the quirky spirit of the original Twingo while feeling fresh and contemporary. To many eyes, it also stands out more confidently than certain rivals, including BYD’s Dolphin Surf.
The real standout, however, is not the styling but the packaging. Measuring 3,790 mm long with a 2,490 mm wheelbase and a curb weight of roughly 1,200 kg, the Twingo E-Tech is impressively compact. Yet Renault claims the interior offers enough space for full-size adults and even competes with larger cars in terms of cabin room. The rear seats slide independently by up to 170 mm, enabling passengers to trade legroom for extra cargo capacity as needed. Speaking of luggage space, the Twingo delivers a surprisingly generous 360 liters in standard configuration, which expands to over 1,000 liters with the rear seats folded flat.
Inside the cabin, Renault has aimed to preserve the concept’s playful personality while keeping production costs manageable. Trim accents are color-coordinated, the roof lining features a unique “Twingo alphabet” pattern, and the gear selector is a customizable lipstick-inspired “e-pop shifter.” Technology includes a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, with Google Maps and Google Assistant support available on higher trims. Adding even more charm, the Twingo comes with a digital companion named “Reno,” an interactive avatar designed to help drivers manage charging and provide other assistance. There is even a custom audio welcome sound created by French composer Jean-Michel Jarre.
Underneath, the Twingo E-Tech uses a shortened version of Renault’s AmpR Small platform, shared with the upcoming Renault 4, Renault 5, and Nissan Micra successor. To keep the price affordable, Renault selected a modest 27.5 kWh LFP battery instead of the larger packs available in the 5. This smaller battery, featuring a new lower-cobalt chemistry, provides a WLTP driving range of 262 km. Fast charging is limited to 50 kW, but due to the battery’s small size, a 10 to 80 percent recharge only takes around 30 minutes.
Performance is modest, reflecting the car’s urban mission. The single front-mounted electric motor produces 81 hp and 175 Nm of torque, resulting in a 0–62 mph time of 12.1 seconds. While not designed for the racetrack, it should feel perfectly suited to city streets and daily commutes.
Ultimately, the Twingo E-Tech emphasizes personality, practicality, and affordability over outright performance. If Renault succeeds in keeping the price below €20,000 in Europe, the Twingo could become a hugely popular choice in the growing market for accessible electric city cars. Its closest rival, Volkswagen’s upcoming ID.Up, will make for a very interesting comparison when the two face off in 2026.