# Renault Twingo — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Renault Twingo on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/renault-twingo

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2019
- **Ideal trim**: Iconic
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £7,800

## Why this model

The Renault Twingo is a fantastic little city car, especially for nipping around tight UK streets. Its unique rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout means it has an incredibly tight turning circle, making parking and U-turns a breeze. It's surprisingly spacious for its size, especially for front passengers, and the engines are economical, keeping running costs down. It's a solid choice if you want something a bit different from the usual city car crowd, offering a fun and practical package.

## What you should pay

For a 2019 Twingo, prices have settled nicely. Compared to rivals like the VW Up! or Kia Picanto of a similar age, the Twingo often offers a bit more character for slightly less money, as Renaults tend to depreciate a little faster. We're looking at a sweet spot where the initial depreciation hit has already been taken, but you're still getting a relatively modern car with plenty of life left. Aiming for a mid-range trim like 'Iconic' gives you a good balance of features without overspending.

## Which trim to buy

The 'Iconic' trim is definitely the one to go for. It builds on the 'Play' and 'Dynamique' trims by adding some really useful and desirable features like automatic climate control, rear parking sensors, and a better infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto). It makes the car feel much more modern and comfortable for daily driving without pushing the price up too much. You get a lot of bang for your buck with the Iconic.

## What to check before you buy

- Clutch wear on manual gearboxes (check for slipping or heavy pedal)
- Minor electrical gremlins (check all lights, infotainment, and electric windows)
- Turbocharger issues on 0.9 TCe engines if not properly maintained (listen for unusual noises, check service history)
- Rear brake drum wear (listen for grinding noises)

## Running costs

Running a Twingo is pretty kind on your wallet. Fuel costs for the 1.0 SCe or 0.9 TCe engines will be around 12 pence per mile, based on current petrol prices and its excellent MPG. Road tax (VED) for a 2019 model is the flat rate of £190 per year. Insurance groups are low, typically between 3 and 10, so premiums should be very affordable, especially for younger drivers or those with a good no-claims bonus.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 70-90 hp
- **Mpg**: 50-60 mpg
- **Reliability Score**: Average
- **Safety Rating**: 4 Stars (Euro NCAP 2014)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Play | £11,295 | £6,800 | 15-inch steel wheels; DAB radio with Bluetooth; LED daytime running lights |
| Dynamique | £12,795 | £7,500 | 15-inch alloy wheels; Air conditioning; Cruise control |
| Iconic | £13,795 | £8,200 | 16-inch alloy wheels; Automatic climate control; Rear parking sensors |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £7,800 | 100% |
| 2027 | £6,864 | 88% |
| 2028 | £6,178 | 79% |
| 2029 | £5,684 | 73% |
| 2030 | £5,286 | 68% |

Buying a 2019 Twingo in 2026 means you're picking it up after its steepest depreciation period. The initial big drops in value have already happened, so you'll lose less money each year compared to buying new. This makes it a smart financial move, as you get a good, reliable car without taking the biggest hit on its value.

Total value lost since new: 32.3%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Volkswagen Up!](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/volkswagen-up.md)
- [Hyundai i10](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/hyundai-i10.md)
- [Kia Picanto](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/kia-picanto.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.