Renault launches Twingo Gordini 100

Renault is to launch a Gordini version of its smallest model, the Twingo, following on from the recent Gordini version of the Twingo and Clio. Priced at £11,395 Renault says the Twingo Gordini 100 is aimed squarely at customers looking for good handling and affordable running costs, wrapped up in a chic and sporty three-door package.

Powered by the 1.2 TCe (Turbo Control Efficiency) petrol engine, the newcomer is instantly recognisable as a Gordini, through its trademark twin racing stripes with subtle ‘G' badging across the bonnet, roof and tailgate. The look continues with gloss black front and rear bumpers, extra-tinted rear windows and tailgate plus discreet Gordini Series badging.

The sporty theme continues with its paint choice of three - Malta Blue, with white Gordini stripes and matching details (foglight surrounds, door mirrors and rear spoiler), or Pearlescent Black and Glacier White. In the case of the latter, the styling details are picked out in anthracite.

On the inside the Gordini 100 features dark carbon cloth seats with embossed Gordini logo and white stitching, blue door trim inserts with white stitching and blue leather-trimmed steering wheel with two white stripes to indicate the straight ahead position. The Gordini rev-counter comes in trademark blue with white background and bezel, while the Gordini gear lever knob shares the same blue hue, as does the gear lever base. There is also a gloss black centre console and aluminium pedals.

Standard kit includes a 4x20W RDS radio with single CD MP3 player, Bluetooth and aux input, air conditioning, 15-inch ‘Turini' alloy wheels with polished face and black inserts, cruise control, electric windows, speed limiter and independent sliding and folding rear seats.

The Twingo Gordini 100 can also be ordered with features previously unavailable on GT, including polished alloys with blue inserts and leather upholstery, to be precise, leather-faced Gordini seats with blue detailing. Other options include climate control, metallic paint and electric panoramic sunroof with sunblind. The Gordini stripes on the bonnet, roof and tailgate are a no-cost removable option.

Under the bonnet of the latest version is the 1.2 TCe petrol engine, pushing out 100hp at 5500 rpm, with a top speed of 117 mph. Meanwhile, beneath the body, lies the GT chassis with stiffer shock absorbers and bushes, and recalibrated sports steering. With CO2 emissions of 132g/km the Gordini TCe 100 qualifies for the Renault eco² signature, as well as offering impressive claimed combined fuel economy of 49.5mpg. Crucially for a car of its ilk, and especially its appeal to younger buyers, its insurance group is likely to be competitive when it is formally announced soon.

The Twingo Gordini 100 will be available to order from January 2011.