Galway Advertiser 2007/2007_11_08/GA_0811_E1_138.pdf 

Extracted text

138

MOTORING

November 8 2007

New Renault Twingo launched here

Renault Ireland has just launched the newest incarnation of Europe's most popular small car, the Twingo, onto the Irish market. Available for the first time in right hand drive, the Twingo has an entry level price of 11,750 for the 1.2 litre Royale version. The Dynamique 1.2 16V is listed at 13,550 with the thrilling GT 1.2 16V TCE version on sale at 16,750. All prices are ex-works - excluding delivery and related charges. The range has sold more that 2.4 million units since it was launched in April 1993 and with the Twingo, Renault believes this trend of high volumes will continue. Thanks to a chassis derived from the B-Segment and a powertrain range featuring the new TCE 100bhp petrol engine, Twingo is certainly a step up from its predecessor. Renault's now well known ability to optimise cabin space is also further illustrated in this model. A modular interior helps give the cabin a light and airy feel and Twingo can also boast the largest boot volume in its class. With a modern, pleasing look and design, backed up by a longer bonnet and the robust stance of the rear flanks, Renault says the new Twingo is well equipped to capture the imagination. However the addition of a range of accessories designed to customise new Twingo's exterior, including decorative treatments, can be fitted on the car exterior.

These are available now and give buyers the option to customise their car to their own taste and look. As with all Renault vehicles, safety was at the forefront of the new Twingo design team's priorities. It has covered all aspects of this key area, from positive, predictable road-handling and accident prevention systems to occupant protection in case of impact. New Twingo's robust construction, braking and suspension performance, ergonomics and equipment from the next segment up, put the car at the top end of the small city car segment in terms of safety. The electronic architecture of the Twingo, along with the presence of other features, including a reinforced structure against front and side impacts, mark a new departure in safety. The new sill and door beam on Twingo are designed to spread forces over the full length of the car to provide maximum protection for all occupants. ABS with electronic brake assist comes as standard across the range of Twingos along with driver and passenger front airbags. For the first time in Twingo the passenger airbag will be 3D types, which are optimised to spread the force of impact between the head and thorax. Furthermore the exterior rear view mirrors have been designed to conform to future legislation and provide a better perception of potential hazard situations. New Twingo's dynamic qualities are heightened by

Excelsior's
Value Oil Company
For suppliers of home heating kersoene, tractor & road diesel We accept all major cash/credit dards. Budget payment plan available

091 751065 / 086 2442159
Ballybane Industrial Estate, Ballybane, Galway

a range of three engines, each of which is specific to a trim level, including the much anticipated new high performance 1.2 16v 100bhp TCE powerplant. All the engines emit less than 140g/km of emissions and therefore qualify for Eco2, Renault's environmental programme. The first engine will be the 1.2 8v 65bhp, which will come in the Royale version. It gives a impressive fuel consumption of 50.4mpg for a combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 132g/km, and this does not take away from its impressive performance on the road. Coupled with its very attractive price, the new Twingo Royale is expected to prove the most popular with Irish motorists. The second engine is the 1.2 16v 75bhp, which will come in the Dynamique version of new Twingo. With torque of 107Nm at 4,250rpm and particular responsiveness at low revs, this engine is extremely fuel efficient, using just 49.5mpg for combined cycles and emitting just 135g/km of emissions. The third engine in the Twingo range is the 1.2 16v 100bhp TCE model and is the powerplant behind the GT version of the new Twingo. The combination of small size and low inertia turbo ensures a feisty performance, demonstrated by the 0-60mph in just 9.8 sec. "New Twingo is a whole new venture for Renault in Ireland and I'm delighted that a right hand drive version is now available for the Irish market. The popularity of Twingo on the continental market is sure to be reflected in Ireland," commented Rachid Assas, managing director of Renault Ireland. "The combination of the price, trim levels and engine specs will make this car very attractive to young Irish motorists and I believe that the Twingo can compete in this new and exciting segment for us."