Printable View
Renault celebrates 50th anniversary of 8 Gordini at Monte Carlo ahead of the launch of the new TwingoThe outing of five Renault 8 Gordini models at the Monte Carlo Historique rally has reignited rumours that a hot version of the new Twingo might be on the way. A production version of the new Twingo, which shares its platform with the second-generation Smart Forfour, is expected to be launched at the Geneva motor show in March. The launch of the new Twingo will allow Renault to compete in the same 'character' supermini segment as the Fiat 500 and the Vauxhall Adam. Renault said the running of its 8 Gordini models in Monte Carlo was designed to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the model's launch at the 1964 Paris motor show. The event ran over eight days following the end of the Rally proper, and was open to cars which competed in the Monte Carlo Rally between 1955 and 1980. The new Twingo shares the 8 Gordini's rear-engined, rear-wheel-drive layout. A hot version of the Twingo is tipped to appear at the Paris motor show in the autumn. Spy shots of the upcoming model have already revealed its styling will be lifted heavily from the Twin-Z electric concept, with its sloping rear tailgate also referencing features from the classic R5. A Renaultsport-badged version of the Twingo is likely to be influenced by the Twin'Run concept, which is powered by a 320bhp 3. 5-litre V6 engine. A range of new three-cylinder engines, available with both conventional manual and a new dual-clutch transmission, will power the new Twingo. An all-electric version is also planned. Read more Geneva motor show news.
