Renault has made waves at the Brussels Motor Show with its R5 winning Car of the Year and the introduction of the Twingo E-Tech electric prototype. Set to launch in 2026 at an estimated price of €20,000, the prototype showcases a spacious interior with a 10.1-inch central display and clever storage solutions. The refined exterior design aligns with safety standards while maintaining the Twingo’s charm. Anticipation builds as the electric car market awaits its promising features and specifications.
Renault Shines at the Brussels Motor Show
Renault has made a significant impact at the Brussels Motor Show, capturing attention not just with its R5 winning the prestigious Car of the Year title, but also with the unveiling of an exciting vehicle: the Twingo E-Tech electric prototype.
A Sneak Peek into the Future of the Twingo
Behind its somewhat intimidating name lies a glimpse of the forthcoming Twingo, an electric car anticipated to retail at around 20,000 euros, set to launch in 2026. Although this model was initially showcased in Paris back in October 2024, the Brussels event provided a chance to delve deeper into its interior, which we explored thoroughly.
Diving right into specifics, while the Twingo displayed in Brussels isn’t quite a production model, its dashboard appears ready for the assembly line. All the essential “functional” components are present: turn signals, air conditioning controls, seat belts, and more. The designers have also incorporated vibrant fabric upholstery, alongside playful hidden messages, reminiscent of Renault’s latest concept car, the Emblem.
The dashboard features a 10.1-inch central display, borrowed from the electric R5 and R4, and incorporates the Android Automotive interface, boasting unique graphics that radiate positivity. The horizontal design enhances the sense of space, complete with a double-decker layout.
What stands out about the interior is its spaciousness. Several factors contribute to this perception, including a low-profile dashboard, a large glass roof (which might not make it to the final production model due to cost implications), and a sliding rear bench seat inspired by the Twingo 1. This Twingo prototype is designed strictly as a four-seater, featuring a common seat base but independent backs, which allowed three adults to travel comfortably together. Renault assures that the production model will retain similar dimensions.
Accessing the rear bench is a breeze thanks to the five doors, which offer wide openings for easy entry and exit—a particularly useful feature for installing baby seats.
The interior also boasts numerous clever storage solutions, both in the front and rear. Features like smartphone holders, charging cable organizers, magnetic attachments on the back of the front seats, and strap pockets are designed to keep everyday items organized. While promising, we will wait to see how these elements translate to the production version.
Refined Exterior Design
While the interior has taken the spotlight, Renault’s design teams have also made noteworthy enhancements to the Twingo’s exterior. Compared to the original version unveiled in November 2023, this prototype “2.0” has been fine-tuned to align better with mass production and safety regulations.
Changes include less experimental lighting, redesigned door handles, more streamlined fenders, subtler glazing, and crucial features like the charging port positioned on the left front fender and an air intake in the grille.
This small vehicle certainly holds appeal, echoing the charm and curves of the original Twingo while presenting a modern flair. A lingering question remains regarding its size, which diverges from the 3.43 m length of its predecessor, likely approaching the 3.92 m of the electric R5, reflecting the influence of safety standards.
The anticipation for 2026 is palpable! Our in-depth exploration of the Twingo electric prototype has left us excited. Currently, the electric car market around the 20,000 euro mark is represented by models like the Dacia Spring and Leapmotor T03, but this Twingo has the potential to shake things up if it incorporates the successful elements from this prototype.
With an attractive presentation, commendable interior space, practical features, and modern technology at a competitive price point, we’re eager to learn more about the final specifications of the production Twingo, including its range, power, and pricing details, as we count down to its release in 2026.