Renault Wind Gordini 133 1.2 TCe 100 3dr Car Review - March 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £15,195
Tax Band: F
Insurance Group: 15
MPG: 44.8
CO2: 145
0-62 Mph: 10.5 secs
BHP: 100 BHP
Range: 394 miles
CarSite Verdict:  3.25/5
The Wind is the third Gordini model to join the Renault range, following the launch of Twingo and Clio versions. The Wind Gordini is available in trademark Malta Blue metallic paint, with twin white stripes; pearl black and glacier white are no-cost options. It consists of only two seats but has good boot space for its class.

The driving experience on offer could be better, and refinement is a bit of an issue. Wind noise infiltrates the cabin too much, particularly at speed, while road imperfections can send a jolt through the cabin. The model does however come with a good range of equipment and is not too expensive to run in terms of fuel economy.

PROS:  A stylish two-seater convertible, the Wind comes with a good range of equipment and offers decent boot space.

CONS:  Refinement is an issue, particularly at speed. Only two seats.

Behind the Wheel

The Renault Wind is not great in terms of refinement. With the roof up or down, there’s a fair bit of wind noise noticeable especially at high speed, but the standard wind deflector means you don’t get buffeted when the lid is stowed.

The model can attain a top speed of 118mph and reach 62mph from a standstill in 10.5 seconds.

Unusually, the 2.0-litre diesel engine is more refined than this 1.2 litre petrol engine when cruising. The steering is light but the car is a little slow to change direction; and, when the roof is folded, you’re always aware of the extra weight hung out at the back. The car shows generally good performance on the road and glides through corners without too much body roll. It is an accomplished motorway cruiser but can be a little unsettled by larger road imperfections.

Looks & Equipment

The Wind is a stylish convertible which smooth, curvaceous lines and an attractive front end. Its exterior appearance is enhanced with gloss black door mirrors and a rear spoiler.

Exclusive styling to the Gordini includes badges on the door pillars, white door mirrors, grille trim and cowls, and 17-inch black alloys. Inside the cabin, there are blue and grey leather seats embossed with the Gordini logo, a numbered Gordini plaque (1-200), a satin chrome-effect gear knob, and blue gear stick surround.

Standard specification includes Bluetooth connectivity, climate control, and a USB connection. It also comes with CD player with MP3 connectivity, electric door mirrors and electric windows. Its roof-folding mechanism takes just 12 seconds to change from open to closed or vice versa.

The Wind Gordini version can be upgraded with a Renault sport stainless steel exhaust for £450 (1.6 only), 17-inch Gordini alloys with polished face and blue inserts for £105, plus a wind deflector for £200.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

Practicality for the Renault Wind is not great, as there are only two seats. The boot, however, is surprisingly well-sized for a small convertible, and will have no trouble containing luggage for two. It has a capacity of 270 litres.

In terms of safety, the car is equipped with four airbags to help keep all occupants protected, plus stability control and anti-skid brakes. Deadlocks and an immobiliser are both provided to help keep things secure.

For security, the model comes as standard with an alarm and central locking. It is covered by a three year or 100,000 mile warranty.

Value for Money

The Renault Wind Gordini 133 1.2 TCe 100 3dr is priced at £15,195, which is fairly competitive for a sporty convertible considering the favourable range of equipment provided with the car. The model will evidently not work as a family car, but provides good passenger room and boot space for a convertible.

In terms of fuel economy the vehicle performs on average at 44.8mpg with CO2 emissions of 145g/km. These figures are both impressive for the class and running costs will be cheaper with the Wind than many of its rivals. Overall it represents good value for money.

Renault Wind Gordini 133 1.2 TCe 100 3dr Car Review - by 
All Renault Wind Reviews
Renault Wind Dynamique 1.6 VVT 133 2dr - February 2012
The Renault Wind is an effort to make a cheap convertible that is more along the lines of a coupe, and the folding roof is a very clever innovation that can be taken down in 12 seconds. Although th...
Renault Wind GT Line 1.2 TCe 100 2dr - March 2012
Based on Renault's Twingo city car, the Wind GT Line 1.2 TCe 100 comes with Renault's excellent 1.2-litre petrol engine which offers good performance figures and excellent fuel efficiency. It's onl...
Renault Wind Gordini 133 1.2 TCe 100 3dr - March 2012
The Wind is the third Gordini model to join the Renault range, following the launch of Twingo and Clio versions. The Wind Gordini is available in trademark Malta Blue metallic paint, with twin whit...
Comments
Sports Alternatives

You might want to read reviews for other Sports cars that you can then compare to the Renault Wind. Here are some popular Renault Wind alternatives:

NEW RELEASE
Jeep Avenger revealed for 2023
NEW RELEASE
Ferrari Purosangue revealed
NEW RELEASE
Ford Mustang revealed for 2023
NEW RELEASE
New BMW M2 has been revealed
NEW RELEASE
Electric SUV coming soon
NEW RELEASE
Popular hatchback gets an update