Twingo Gordini 100

First there were Gordini versions of the Renaultsport Clio 200 and Renaultsport Twingo 133 hot hatches, and now the same treatment is being applied to a more humble model.



The Twingo Gordini 100 is aimed at those who want handling and style, but without the high running costs usually associated with having a very powerful engine. That sounds like a formula that could be popular with a lot of buyers.

As the name implies, under the bonnet lies a 1.2 turbocharged motor that produces a respectable 98 bhp (74 kW / 100 PS). That’s enough to propel the Gordini 100 up to 117 mph (188 km/h), which isn’t too far behind the 125 mph (201 km/h) of the Gordini 133.



But, as expected, the 100 scores at the fuel pump: it manages 49.5 mpg (5.7 l/100km) on the combined cycle, compared to 40.4 mpg (7.0 l/100km) for the 133. CO2 emissions are also down from 155 g/km to 132 g/km, which means UK buyers of the Gordini 100 will be paying the Band E road tax rate of £110 each year, instead of the £155 that drivers of the Band G Gordini 133 will have to part with.



The Gordini 100 replaces the GT specification in the Twingo range, but it inherits the former model’s chassis set up. That means recalibrated sports steering, together with stiffer shock absorbers and suspension bushes.



Going on sale from mid-January next year, the Gordini 100 will cost £11,395 (including VAT at the increased rate of 20%). That represents quite a saving against its 133 sibling, which is currently listed at £14,500.



Renault hasn’t skimped on equipment though. 15” ‘Turini’ alloy wheels, Bluetooth telephone connectivity, cruise control, air conditioning, electric windows, speed limiter and independent sliding and folding rear seats are all fitted as standard.



The most popular colour across the existing Gordini range is Malta Blue, with 90% of customers choosing it. So it’s no surprise that it will be offered on the Twingo Gordini 100, too. Alternatives for those wanting something a bit different are Pearlescent Black and Glacier White. The Gordini twin stripes can be deleted for a more subtle look, but apparently only 1% of owners have so far chosen to do that.



Fiat provides two of the obvious competitors to the Twingo Gordini 100. The £11,005 Panda 100HP has similar performance to the Renault, but it emits more CO2 and uses more fuel. Then there’s the 500 1.4 Sport, which offers comparable economy and performance. However, it’s £870 more expensive than the Twingo, and there’s still little chance of any discount off the Fiat’s price.