Renault 5 E-Tech: A New Era for Affordable Electric Cars
Few cars have generated as much excitement as the all-new, all-electric Renault 5 E-Tech. It’s a winner from nearly every angle, thanks to its chic styling, a surprisingly fun interior, solid build quality, and an attractive price point. For those with fond memories of the original model, the design team has masterfully blended classic cues with modern touches, creating a car that’s both chunky and contemporary.
Like other retro-inspired hits such as the Mini Cooper SE and Fiat 500e, the Renault 5 offers a range of customization options including colors and decals.
So, how affordable is the Renault 5?
The base model starts at £23,000 and comes equipped with a 40kWh (usable) LFP battery that delivers a respectable 194 miles of WLTP range. If you crave more range, the 52kWh pack extends that to 255 miles, but you’ll need to upgrade from the entry-level Evolution trim to the mid-range Techno trim, adding roughly £4,000 to the price.
We spent time with the car in Denmark, and took a left-hand drive model for a spin in the UK, and this review focuses on the right-hand drive version.
At a Glance
Pros:
- Fun to drive
- Affordable price
- Stylish design
- Infotainment system
Cons:
- Real-world range may be underwhelming
- Annoying stalk layout
- Tight rear footwell
What’s New?
Virtually everything. The AmpR Small platform is brand new and will underpin other upcoming Renault EVs, including the Renault 4. The new platform enables other exciting features, such as vehicle-to-load charging and, from 2025, vehicle-to-grid capability, which enables you to power your home with the car.
The interior is all-new, too, filled with nods to the original Renault, some very bright color schemes, recycled materials, and even a baguette holder (if you spec it). The touchscreen display is also familiar as it has the Google software from the Scenic and Megane.
Renault 5 E-Tech: Specifications
The Renault 5 doesn’t major on blistering acceleration, which is appropriate, given its role in the electric car market. It’s not intended to be a hot hatch (that role is reserved for the upcoming Alpine A290). The Renault 5 comes with 121bhp and 166lb ft when equipped with the smaller battery. The larger battery version gets a slightly more robust 148bhp and 181lb ft, which results in a 0-62mph sprint in 8.0 seconds.
Rapid charging peaks at 100kW, similar to rivals such as the electric Mini Cooper, Fiat 500e, Citroen e-C3, and Peugeot e-208. This will charge the battery from 10-80% in approximately 30 minutes. A 7kW home wallbox fully charges the 5 in six to nine hours, depending on battery size. It can also accept an 11kW AC charge if a compatible charger is available. Meanwhile, its V2L capabilities are another impressive feature. Finally, a 500kg trailer can be towed with the new Renault 5.
Driving Experience
Driving the Renault 5 is, in a word, brilliant. It is very nimble on the road, thanks to its quick steering. It has a delightfully perky yet comfortable balance perfect for anything from multi-story car parks to motorway runs. The tires offer a decent level of grip and feel. The car’s responsiveness and unthreatening nature allow you to use 100% of the available potential.
However, there is a slight concern: Real-world range. During testing, the 52kWh battery only managed about 180 miles in warm conditions. In the UK, that dropped to around 140 miles. However, this is similar to many rivals in this class, and shouldn’t be viewed as a deal-breaker.
Interior
Inside, the Renault 5 delivers a surprisingly useful package. It boasts a retro-inspired aesthetic, especially with the two-tone upholstery. With the addition of a few welcome features such as physical air-con controls, dedicated buttons for safety aids, and the Google software on the infotainment system, the interior stands out.
Rear passengers will find more space when compared to a Mini or 500, but with a cramped footwell. Average-sized adults will have no issues, and the car even comes with a center rear armrest and charging sockets. The boot offers 326 liters of storage, plus underfloor space for cables. There is no frunk.
Trims and Pricing
The base Evolution trim comes exclusively with the 40kWh battery. The mid-spec Techno trim is offered with both battery options and is the likely best seller. The top-spec Iconic Five trim offers all the design details. However, it will be changing annually. Pricing hovers around £29k for the Iconic Five trim with the larger battery.
Verdict
The Renault 5 E-Tech is a success: Fun to drive and easy to live with, it’s a practical and well-priced electric car. In a burgeoning market of affordable EVs, the Renault 5 might just be the best of the bunch. This is a car many will want to own.
