Looking almost identical to the Twin’Z and Twin’Run cconcept ars shown last year, the car will be on sale from late summer/early autumn, offering an even wider range of personalisation options than its predecessor.

The Twingo will be produced in Slovenia alongside the forthcoming smart forfour with which it shares its platform, a result of a co-operative agreement between Renault and Daimler formed in 2010. This new platform extends the wheelbase almost to the same length as a B-segment, increasing stability, agility and interior space without lengthening the car.

From launch, it will be the only car in its class to feature a rear-engine, rear-wheel drive architecture. Renault has yet to confirm which engines it will use, or whether it will be available with an electric drivetrain as fitted to the Twin'Z.

Design cues such as the glass tailgate and headlamp shapes are almost identical to last year's concept cars and, in its third generation, the Twingo will be available with five doors for the first time. The rear door handles are concealed, as they are on the Clio and ZOE, while pop-out rear windows are used at the back – likely to save both weight and cost. 

The interior will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March, and little is visible in these first images. However, front seats with integrated head rests are visible, while the dashboard is likely to be similar to the Twin’Run, featuring a digital instrument cluster and Renault’s R-Link internet-connected infotainment system.

Personalisation options will be extensive, including the ability to colour-code or contrast exterior components and add a range of decals. Offering a full spectrum from sporty to chic and feminine, Renault said this will target a customer base split equally between male and female drivers.

Laurens van den Acker, head of industrial design at Renault, said: ‘New Renault Twingo was inspired not only by the original Twingo but also by the Renault 5. It is a modern take on the city car genre with the accent on innovation in terms of its lines and architecture. New Twingo is a fun, playful and vibrant city car.’

Pricing will be announced closer to the launch date.