An Icon Reborn: The 2025 Renault 5 E-Tech
“Hotly anticipated” is a phrase often overused, but it perfectly describes the feeling surrounding the return of the Renault 5. First conceptualized in 2021 as a modern take on the French firm’s beloved hatchback, the Renault 5 is back – this time as a fully electric vehicle. If you’re of a certain age in Europe, you’ll remember this car, but American readers might only know it as the Le Car or even the fire-breathing Renault 5 Turbo.
This reimagining of the original hatchback, an icon that successfully blended affordability, practicality, and smart looks in its time, is now hitting a lot of people right in the feels. The original ICE car was on sale for almost a quarter of a century and was ubiquitous on European roads.
What Is the 2025 Renault 5 E-Tech?
The Renault 5 E-Tech aims to be a city car for the masses, but it also pays homage to its past. While Renault might be a little late to the retro game compared to the likes of Mini and Fiat, the concept car certainly turned heads when it was unveiled. The small EV market at the time wasn’t exactly brimming with excitement, but the Renault 5 gave people a reason to look forward to the future.
With its familiar look, a new platform, and a competitive price point, the Renault 5 is one of the most talked-about new cars of the year. But can it deliver on the promise? I’m pleased to confirm the answer is “hell yes.”
Specs and Performance
The Renault 5 E-Tech boasts a compelling price, starting at £22,995 (approximately $29,800) in the UK. Like the original, it’s designed to be accessible to everyone.
There are two battery options:
- The entry-level model features a 40kWh battery with 120 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, offering a range of 192 miles (310 kilometers) on the WLTP cycle.
- The longer-range version comes with a 52 kWh battery, producing 150 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 252 miles (405 km).
The smaller battery car accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 9.0 seconds, while the larger one achieves the same in 7.9 seconds. Both versions are electronically limited to 93 mph (150 km/h), more than sufficient for European speed limits.
When it comes to charging, the 40 kWh car supports 80 kW fast-charging, replenishing from 15% to 80% in 31 minutes. The 52 kWh version takes 100 kW and can achieve the same charge in 30 minutes. While not record-breaking speeds, it’s sufficient for a city car.
Driving Experience
Driving the 52kWh model in the Techno trim — the mid-range spec but still available in the best colors – offers a delightful experience. Weighing in at 3,219 lbs, it’s relatively lightweight by EV standards. Combine that with its punchy power delivery, and the Renault 5 is immensely fun to drive around town.
Four drive modes are selectable via a “multi-sense” button on the steering wheel: Comfort, Sport, Eco, and Perso (“individual”). These modes alter steering weight, powertrain responsiveness, and more. Eco mode is fine for slow town driving. Comfort mode is perfect for most of the time, offering well-weighted steering and eager throttle response. Sport mode is a good option for a more spirited drive on a twisty road, but, honestly, you just don’t need it that much.
The Renault 5 is perfectly suited for urban environments. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver, and the controls are light enough to make tight turns a breeze. You’ll have a week of commuting without recharging (in theory!).
On the highway, the car is smooth, quiet, and comfortable. Its suspension delivers some interesting vibrations over rough surfaces, but you can’t expect a cloud-like ride for the price. The steering in its heaviest setting feels suitably meaty.
The Good and the Bad
Renault has done a fantastic job with the interior of the 5. There is plenty of interest around the cabin. It leans into its retro design, and even though many things are controlled through a 10.1-inch touchscreen, the Google-based infotainment system, equipped with CarPlay and Android Auto, is genuinely easy to use. The handling is great for a car of this size. It’s fun, perky, and puts a smile on your face, in other words.
On the downside, real-world efficiency can be a little lower than claimed. In cold weather, the range can drop quite a bit. The A-pillars are on the thick side, which can make seeing out of junctions a bit tricky.
Is It Good As an EV?
The Renault 5 E-Tech is exactly what it needs to be. The maximum charge speed isn’t lightning-fast, but it’s perfect for city use and short trips. The brake regen is subtle, so you don’t get that abrupt deceleration when driving about town.
The new Renault 5 is a wonderful little car. And the hype? The hype is well-deserved.
