Renault introduced a facelifted version of the second-generation Twingo city car at the Frankfurt Motor Show last September. It has just applied the new look to the performance-oriented Renault Sport model, and it has used the occasion to make some modifications inside and out.
The 2012 Twingo R.S. lineup is divided into two parts: the standard R.S., and the Gordini R.S. Both are powered by the same 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, rated at 133 horsepower and 118 lb-ft of torque. Renault claims that it gets an average of 36 miles per gallon in a mixed European cycle, and emits just 150 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
Auto history buffs might assume that the Gordini model is faster, or that it features a tweaked suspension, but that is not the case. Instead, the badge merely corresponds to a range-topping trim level: the Gordini R.S. comes equipped with 17″ rims, an automatic climate control unit, and leather seats.
On the outside, both versions of the R.S. stand out from more mundane Twingos thanks to a roof-mounted spoiler and fender flares. The rear bumper is fitted with an air diffuser, and the front one wears an F1-inspired lip that is now standard across the Renault Sport lineup.
For the first time in its history, the Twingo R.S. is available with the R.S. monitor that is found in the Clio and the Mégane. It consists of a screen mounted on the dash that allows the driver to time track runs, and to monitor what is going on under the hood.
The new Twingo R.S. will go on sale across Europe in the middle of next month. In France, it will carry a base price of €16,900 ($22,287). Buyers who opt for the Gordini model will be asked to hand over €18,100 ($23,870).
