Nissan has revived the Pixo nameplate after a 12-year absence, but this revival marks a shift in strategy. The new Pixo will be a rebadged version of the Renault Twingo, entering the UK market in early 2025 with a starting price near £18,000. This positions it as the most affordable option in Nissan’s expanding electric vehicle lineup, undercutting the Renault Micra in both price and segment.
The Pixo will be manufactured alongside the Twingo at Renault’s plant in Slovenia, sharing the same platform but adopting Nissan’s signature front and rear styling cues. Unlike the Dacia Spring, which takes a more aggressive design direction, the Pixo maintains the Twingo’s rounded body shape. Nissan’s design team added distinctive elements, including pixel-inspired headlights, a custom front bumper, and unique rear lighting, complemented by matching wheel designs. These changes create a visual identity separate from the Twingo while preserving its compact, urban-friendly proportions.
Inside, the Pixo retains the Twingo’s interior architecture, including the same steering wheel, dashboard layout, and infotainment system. The sliding rear seats remain a practical feature, allowing flexibility for passengers or cargo. However, key differences emerge in the electric drivetrain. The Pixo uses a 27.5kWh battery pack, delivering an estimated 161-mile real-world range, but its charging capability is limited to 50kW, half the 80kW rate offered by the Twingo.
Performance figures are modest but align with the Pixo’s urban-focused role. A single front-mounted electric motor generates 80 horsepower and 129 lb-ft of torque, propelling the vehicle from 0 to 62 mph in 12.1 seconds. To further differentiate the model, Nissan has introduced exclusive paint options, including purple and blue hues that are not available on the Twingo or other variants. These colors, combined with the distinctive styling, help the Pixo stand out in a crowded compact EV segment.
The Pixo’s arrival coincides with a surge in demand for small electric vehicles. Rivals such as the Volkswagen ID.1, a newly electrified Citroën 2CV, and an updated Fiat Panda are also targeting this market. Nissan’s decision to revive the Pixo name while leveraging Renault’s production infrastructure demonstrates a pragmatic approach to competing in this space. By offering a budget-friendly electric option with recognizable Nissan styling, the company aims to capture a segment of buyers who prioritize affordability and urban practicality over long-range capabilities or fast charging.
