Renault 5 E-Tech Electric: A New National Icon

Big name, even bigger expectations. The Renault 5 E-Tech Electric debuts with ample hype, and rightfully so. This reboot of a classic is just as clever as the original, and a lot of fun to drive.

A National Treasure Reborn

We’ve driven million-dollar hypercars, custom one-offs, and resurrected classics, but few have matched the excitement we felt in the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric. Everywhere we drove this bright yellow EV around Nice, we were met with smiles. And if we’d earned five euros for every thumbs-up, our wallets would be bursting. For the French, the Renault R5 is a cultural touchstone—a slice of automotive history they still cherish.

The Renault 5 hit the roads in 1972 and quickly won over Europe’s drivers. By the time production ended in 1996, over nine million had been sold. The R5 became an icon. Now, Renault is bringing the beloved classic back, with a twist: it’s electric, and it’s fun. For us, the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric is the EV of the year, even edging out Citroën’s ë-C3. While major automakers like VW struggle to craft electric vehicles with character, Renault’s creation has no trouble winning hearts.

Electric Drive with Familiar Tech

This isn’t magic—it’s solid engineering. Built on the new AmpR-Small platform, the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric uses a refined version of the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s CMF-B architecture. The front axle comes from the Renault Captur, while the rear sports a multi-link suspension for battery accommodation. “The multi-link is essential for battery space,” says Renault’s lead product planner Guido Haak.

Two NMC batteries are available: a 40-kWh pack for up to 312 kilometers and, in the top “Iconic Five 150 Comfort Range” we drove, a 52-kWh pack providing up to 410 kilometers. Charging speeds are moderate: the larger battery charges at up to 100 kW on DC (80 kW for the smaller one), reaching 15 to 80% in half an hour. AC charging maxes out at 11 kW, taking just over three hours to recharge fully.

Practical Power Choices

Three motor options are planned: the 110 kW / 150 PS model debuts in January, followed by 70 kW / 95 PS and 88 kW / 120 PS versions. None are groundbreaking, nor are the 0-100 km/h acceleration of eight seconds or top speed of 150 km/h. Yet, these specs provide more than enough power for daily driving.

The R5’s joy comes from its well-tuned chassis. This is no basic transport vehicle—it handles beautifully in corners with a well-anchored body. The drive is solid and reassuring without sacrificing comfort. Consumption was also reasonable, with the trip computer showing 12.9 kWh/100 km against Renault’s official figure of 15.2 kWh/100 km.

Design Features with a Nod to the Past

The Renault 5 E-Tech Electric shines through its playful details. A small rear spoiler and a front grille with a five-bar LED display show battery levels as the driver approaches. Originally, Renault considered placing the charging port here, but they soon realized the cord would rub against the bumper. Instead, the grille lights up with the number “5” when charging and winks with its headlights, keeping the R5’s cheeky charm alive.

Compact with a punchy stance, the R5 is 3.92 meters long and rides on 18-inch wheels, with proportions that recall its historic design. Interior space is fair up front, though rear passengers may find it cramped. Its trunk offers 326 liters of storage, expanding to 1,106 liters with the seats folded down, though the floor isn’t flat.

Smart Interior, Nostalgic Touches

The 10.1-inch central touchscreen and 10-inch instrument display meet most needs, including Renault’s quirky radio remote on the steering column. The infotainment system is intuitive, and the interior quality, at least in the top model, feels premium.

Renault uses ample recycled materials, adding to the appeal. Priced from €34,400, the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric costs more than some EVs, like the budget-focused Leapmotor T03, which fulfills the same purpose of basic transport. VW’s ID.3, for instance, is occasionally available under €30,000. Still, Renault’s offering has one distinct edge—it’s simply fun. A more basic version, priced at around €25,000, is on the way, though it will lack DC fast charging and limit charging to 11 kW.