In a car the size of Renault's Twingo, being piping hot is an absolute bonus. We have first details of the cute and potent 98-kW Twingo RS.
A true Renault Sport car, this tiny Twingo takes signature styling and combines it with killer chassis, engine and braking upgrades, and wider front and rear tracks.
Sporting an athletic appearance highlighted by big bumpers, wider front and rear wings, side skirts and a tailgate-mounted spoiler, its interior is characterised by Renault Sport front seats with enhanced lateral support, specific aluminium pedals and a leather steering wheel.
For those who enjoy living on the edge, Twingo RS's ESP can be completely disconnected to completely exploit the car's athletic prowess.
Twingo RS is powered by a naturally aspirated 16-valve 1.6-litre engine developed by Renault Sport Technologies that produces 98 kW at 6 750 r/min and 160 Nm of torque at 4 400 r/min.
The little racer's exhaust note has been specially tuned via a four-in-one exhaust regarded by Renault as being a "technological feat that strikes a perfect balance between acoustics, performance and low emissions.
Aimed smack-bang at the youngster buying his/her first hot hatch, Twingo RS will be available in South Africa from the first quarter of 2009.
'Regular' Twingo for SA, too
The Twingo RS will be preceded by the introduction of a more muted version by the end of 2008.
Set for a Johannesburg International Motor Show (formerly Auto Africa) unveiling, the 16-valve 1.2-litre will be offered in Dynamic spec only although Dynamic Plus, which basically adds a body kit, will beavailable too.
This Twingo will be fully specced andtargeted primarily atthe female buyer.
It should be available at dealers in December, when pricing will also be made available.