Renault Twingo

Hot Twingo rearing to go

Rear-driven baby on the way as Renault deal saves Smart.

The twang is back in the Twingo! Renault aims to recapture the quirkiness of its first-generation city car with a new rear-engined, rear-wheel-drive version – and it’s all down to a tie-up with Daimler and its Smart brand.

The original Twingo, launched in 1992, was a hit with European buyers thanks to its unique cab-forward design and centrally mounted instrument panel. In contrast, the current model is much more conventional, even in hot Gordini trim.

But the newcomer will hark back to admired rear-engined Renaults of old – like the nimble 8 Gordini – after Renault-Nissan and Daimler last week agreed a symbolic equity swap and a deal to share platforms and engine technology.

The move has secured the future of the ailing Smart brand, and will enable production of the next ForTwo coupé and convertible, as well as a new four-seater ForFour. The showroom version of Renault’s electric Twizy could also be based on the two-seater variant of this platform.