Renault Twingo III (AH8) (2014 – 2022)

Reliability score : 8.2/10

The Renault Twingo III (AH8) represents a radical technical departure from its predecessors. Co-developed with Daimler (sharing its 'Edison' platform with the Smart Forfour II), it adopts a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive (RR) layout. This architecture frees up the front axle, granting the car an unbeatable turning radius (4.3 meters) and making it the ultimate urban vehicle. Available exclusively as a 5-door hatchback, it received a mid-cycle facelift in 2019 (Phase 2) which brought updated styling, improved aerodynamics (lowered ride height to improve crosswind stability), the new Easy Link infotainment system, and revised engines to meet Euro 6d standards. In 2020, Renault introduced the highly successful Z.E. (later renamed E-Tech Electric) version, which perfectly suits the car's urban

✅ Strengths

Unbeatable turning radius (8.6m curb-to-curb) making parking effortless.
Compact footprint (3.61m) while still offering 5 doors.
Availability of the smooth 6-speed EDC dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Z.E. / E-Tech electric version is arguably the best iteration of this platform.
Fun, customizable design with a cheerful interior.
Timing chain on all petrol engines (no timing belt to replace).

⚠️ Weaknesses

Shallow trunk with a high load floor due to the engine placement underneath.
Trunk floor gets noticeably warm (bad for groceries/frozen goods on long trips).
Sensitive to crosswinds on the highway (improved slightly post-2019).
Front hood opening mechanism is quirky, impractical, and prone to jamming.
No steering wheel reach adjustment (only tilt), compromising driving position for taller drivers.
Rear windows only pop out (compass style), they do not roll down.

🎯 Verdict

The Renault Twingo III is a masterclass in urban mobility. By moving the engine to the rear, Renault created a car that can U-turn in the tightest of city streets. While it lacks the highway composure and trunk practicality of a Hyundai i10 or VW Up!, it compensates with immense charm and agility. Buying Advice: For pure city driving, the 1.0 SCe is bulletproof and cheap to run. If your budget allows and you have home charging, the Z.E. / E-Tech Electric is the absolute best version of this car, offering silent, punchy, and highly reliable urban transport. The 0.9 TCe is the choice if you occasionally venture onto the highway, but ensure its cooling system has been well maintained. We highly recommend seeking out a Phase 2 model (post-2019) for the improved Easy Link infotainment and better crosswind stability.