This is the Renault Wind, a two-seat coupé-convertible that will go head to head with the Peugeot 207CC when UK sales start in June.
The Wind, which will be launched at the Geneva motor show next month, shares its platform and much of its front-end styling with the Twingo. Renault is keen to differentiate the two models, however, and will offer the Wind with its own unique interior featuring components borrowed from models higher up the Renault range.
See the official Renault Wind pics
Unlike most retractable hard-top roofs, which use a hinge system, the Wind’s set-up uses a central pivot, a technique inspired by the Ferrari 575 Superamerica. This ensures that the Wind’s boot space remains at 270 litres regardless of whether the roof is up or down. That figure is 40 litres more than the standard Twingo hatchback’s.
At the Wind’s launch, the car will be offered with two of the Twingo’s petrol engines: the 133bhp 1.6-litre unit from the Renaultsport model and the Twingo GT’s 100bhp 1.2-litre engine. The latter will be the entry-level unit.
Despite having the Twingo’s most powerful engine, Renault is pitching the Wind as a sports model and not a sports car. No Renaultsport or Gordini Wind variants are planned, but they could follow in the future.
The Wind is a little larger than the Twingo, too; its 3830mm overall length makes it 230mm longer.
Full details of the Wind will be confirmed at the Geneva motor show, where it will be displayed alongside Renault’s other new coupé-cabriolet, the Mégane. It will be priced to compete head on with the 207CC, from around £17,000.
Mark Tisshaw
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Re: Renault Wind revealed
If you think the Pluriel is a better looking car than the Mini, I respect your opinion - however, you can get a Pluriel (with 4 seats) from just over £14,000 - £3,000 extra might not be a lot in your world, but it would certainly make me think twice.
Totally agree, but again, this was pitched at the Daihatsu Copen, Ford StreetKa price range, not against the MX-5 et al.
Re: Renault Wind revealed
It looks decent enough to me. Not as appealing as an MX-5 or as established either. Having said that I think it'll appeal to women more than men! Can't say why but I just do.
Re: Renault Wind revealed
In news just breaking... the Renault Wind will fight for breathing space in a hotly contested market with several new players, including the Abarth Air Bagel, Alfa Barking Spider, Bristol Butt Burp, Citreon Crack Splitter, Dodge Deflate, Fiat Fowl Howl, Honda Honk, Lotus Lingerer, Maserati Moon Gas, Morgan Man Salute, Opel Odorama, Panther Parp, Reliant Rimshot, Suzuki Squeeker, Talbot Tail Wind, Vauxhaul Vent One, Westfield Wet One and not forgetting the new Zastava Zinger...