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The Renault 5 was once a iconic figure in automotive history. Today, it returns as an electric vehicle with a vintage twist, fully grasping its mission.
"Highly awaited" is a term frequently thrown around, yet I genuinely cannot recall ever being this excited to slide into the driver's seat of a new vehicle.
Renault 5 E-Tech Electric
, known in full, was initially conceived in 2021 as an updated version of the French company’s compact car designed for the masses. Those familiar with it might recognize it under the nickname Le Car; others may have forgotten about it entirely. Enthusiasts, however, could recall the high-performance variant.
Renault 5 Turbo
instead.
Regardless, Renault’s initial hatchback evolved into an iconic model that combined cost-effectiveness with functionality and sleek styling. This internal combustion engine vehicle remained available for almost 25 years and seemed ubiquitous across European highways. Reviving this design exclusively as an electric car now is touching many individuals in our region quite deeply.
Image courtesy of: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Assessment
We've had varied outcomes with this strategy in the past, most recently with the reintroduced Ford Capri. Does the electrified version of the Renault 5 fare any better?
I'm delighted to provide you with a succinct response: absolutely.
What Is It?
Photo credit: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Assessment
A compact urban vehicle designed for everyone, yet inspired by yesteryears. Although Renault arrived somewhat belatedly to the vintage trend—a genre dominated by brands like Mini and Fiat—their concept car certainly garnered attention upon unveiling. Even though nostalgia can be powerful, the limited electric vehicle options available then weren't particularly exciting; however, Renault offered a glimpse of anticipation with their creation.
A recognizable design, a fresh platform, and an attractive pricing make it one of the most discussed new vehicles this year. However, if it performs poorly, it might discourage those looking to move away from internal combustion engines (ICE).
Image courtesy of: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Assessment
What Are The Specs?
Priced sharply, it starts at £22,995 ($29,800) in the UK. Similar to its predecessor, it is not positioned as a luxury car but rather as one for all consumers. You can select between two battery choices, both delivering energy to a solitary motor driving the front wheels.
Photograph by: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Assessment
The base model 5 comes equipped with a 40kWh battery delivering 120 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, offering a range of 192 miles or 310 kilometers as per the European WLTP standards. Alternatively, there is an extended-range option featuring a 52 kWh battery that provides 150 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, capable of reaching up to 252 miles, which is equivalent to 405 kilometers.
The compact battery vehicle accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 9.0 seconds, whereas the larger model accomplishes the same feat in just 7.9 seconds. Despite their size difference, both models reach a maximum speed of 93 mph (150 km/h). This exceeds most European speed limits except those found on German highways without set speed caps; hence, they perform sufficiently well. In terms of recharging capabilities, the car with a 40 kWh battery supports up to 80 kW rapid charging, enabling it to charge from 15% to 80% in approximately 31 minutes. On the other hand, the version equipped with a 52 kWh power pack can achieve the same state of charge range within about 30 minutes using a 100 kW charger. While these recharge rates might seem ordinary, consider that these vehicles prioritize affordability and urban driving over long-distance travel requirements.
Photograph by: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Assessment
It's significantly larger than the initial model, which isn't surprising since hitting this newer version wouldn't result in such severe consequences like merging with the A-Pillar or having the steering wheel pierce your solar plexus. (Such outcomes are generally considered undesirable nowadays.)
This doesn't imply ample storage space in the trunk—there's only 11 cubic feet available when the seats are upright, which increases to 39 cubic feet when they're folded down. This could suffice for your grocery shopping trips or short drives within the city, but fitting all four passengers along with their baggage might pose some challenges.
Photo credit: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Assessment
How Does It Drive?
Photograph by: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Assessment
I was driving the 52 kWh model in Techno trim. This version represents the mid-tier option, yet it offers appealing color choices (the highest trim level doesn't offer green with a contrasting roof, plus it misses out on the most stylish wheels, among other features).
With a weight of 3,219 lbs, it's practically lightweight for an electric vehicle. Combined with decent power output, zipping through city streets becomes quite enjoyable. The acceleration won't jerk your neck forward, making it stand out in today’s market where many high-performance models boast extreme speed claims; this subtlety is surprisingly pleasant.
Photo credit: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Assessment
The vehicle offers four drivable modes accessible through a "multi-sense" button located on the steering wheel. These options include Comfort, Sport, Eco, and Perso (which Renault calls "personal"). Each mode alters aspects like steering resistance, engine responsiveness, and several others. For leisurely city driving, the Eco setting works just fine; although not overly energetic, this isn't an issue when vehicles typically move no faster than 11 mph. Most of your drives can comfortably be handled with the Comfort option: the steering provides appropriate feedback, acceleration responds promptly, and overall operation seems quite pleasant.
Sport mode certainly livens things up and adds excitement during twisty roads, yet for casual urban cruising...it might seem excessive. In essence, you probably won’t require anything beyond these settings for typical use cases.
The Renault 5 is likely to see most of its time spent in town. Its dimensions make it well-suited for urban environments, the steering is responsive enough for easy maneuvering around corners, and its relatively low power output reduces the likelihood of speeding tickets. Additionally, with a WLTP range sufficient for at least a week's worth of commutes before needing a charge, it should handle daily driving needs efficiently, assuming everything goes as planned.
Image courtesy of: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Evaluation
On the freeway, everything feels smooth, silent, and cozy. The car's suspension allows for somewhat intriguing tremors when driving over bumpy terrain; however, considering what Renault is asking for this vehicle, one shouldn’t anticipate floating along like clouds.
If you decide to step up your game and engage the Sport mode, you'll likely find yourself amused rather swiftly. The vehicle accelerates smoothly even at higher speeds, offering satisfyingly robust feedback from the steering wheel set to its firmest configuration. However, applying excessive acceleration out of turns might cause mild understeering due to its relatively modest horsepower and curb weight; yet these very attributes contribute positively to an enjoyable driving experience when desired. Despite this, the car's mass becomes quite noticeable during spirited drives, and traversing uneven road surfaces may result in a somewhat jittery ride quality. While it certainly doesn’t compete with traditional hot hatches, it remains entertaining whenever you seek some excitement.
Image courtesy of: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Assessment
What’s Good?
Image courtesy of: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Assessment
Renault has excelled with the interior design. Instead of opting for an overly simplistic and screen-dominated approach to cut costs, they've added various textures and intriguing elements throughout the cabin. This gives it a charming vintage feel without sacrificing modern convenience. While many functions can be managed through a large 10.1-inch touchscreen, the Google-powered entertainment system, complete with CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, is user-friendly and easy to navigate.
When it comes to compact vehicles, the handling stands out. It's enjoyable, lively, and brings joy to driving enthusiasts. Using youthful lingo, you could say it has great vibes. The reasonable price further adds to its appeal. Shoppers no longer feel compelled to opt for mundane options just to enjoy their time behind the wheel.
Photo credit: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Evaluation
What’s Bad?
On a 50-degree Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) day, with varied driving conditions, Renault reported achieving 3.1 miles per kilowatt-hour. This calculation suggests that the 52-kilowatt-hour battery could travel slightly over 161 miles on a single charge. While this falls significantly short of the advertised range of 252 miles, colder temperatures in London can impact performance like this. Under milder conditions or with careful, slower driving, it likely would manage a greater distance; however, even then, it represents a substantial reduction from expectations.
Photograph by: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Assessment
The A-pillars are quite substantial too, making visibility at intersections somewhat challenging when maneuvering into very tight spaces. Although this vehicle qualifies as compact within electric and American markets, it remains considerably larger than many others. Therefore, do not anticipate squeezing effortlessly into the narrowest openings available.
What Is It Like as an Electric Vehicle?
It perfectly fulfills its purpose. Sure, the maximum charging speed isn't incredibly fast, but this vehicle excels at urban driving and shorter journeys. The regenerative braking is smooth, which means you won't suddenly feel pulled down when navigating through city streets.
Image courtesy of: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Evaluation
The actual performance was somewhat unexpected, yet it wasn't poor enough to warrant heading to your closest Renault dealership with protest signs. Since Europe hasn't joined the NACS system, it utilizes Type-2 connectors instead.
If you're a seasoned electric vehicle enthusiast, you won't notice anything unusual, but newcomers will not feel like they're missing out on typical 'car' features.
Image courtesy of: Alex Goy / InsideEVs
2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Evaluation
Early Verdict
The new Renault 5 is a wonderful little thing, all told. It’s best suited to the city, at least when it’s chilly, and its slowish charging means longer journeys may require a bit more commitment than some may be willing to put in. It’s not just a good EV, but it’s a good car full stop. The price isn’t even bad, either.
The excitement is genuine, and the enthusiasm is well-deserved.
Alex Goy is an independent journalist residing in London. His interests include British sports cars, tea, and the subtle thrill that comes from driving such a vehicle.
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