Renault 5 E-Tech 2025 Review

In a world saturated with retro-inspired electric vehicles, Renault has managed to pull off a remarkable feat with the new Renault 5 E-Tech. Dubbed a family hatchback, this £23k all-electric offering brings a refreshing blend of style, nostalgia, and practicality without overwhelming performance specifications—making it a superb option for the modern driver.

Retro Charm Meets Modern Electric Efficient

The first thing that strikes you about the Renault 5 E-Tech is its vivid retro-inspired design. Draped in a bright yellow coat, the car boasts angular lines that hark back to its iconic predecessor, the Renault 5, which ruled the roads in the late 20th century. While it might not be equipped with the fantastical power of the R5 Turbo 3E, this standard model captures enough of the original’s spirit to make it appealing to both longtime fans and a new generation.

A Crowd-Pleaser on the Road

Driving through the picturesque streets of Nice, it’s hard not to notice the public’s warm reception of this innovative hatch. The moment we parked for a photoshoot in the surrounding mountainous terrain, the car became an instant attraction. From enthusiastic passersby like the driver of a Peugeot 208 who doubled back for a closer look, to cyclists stopping mid-pedal to admire the retro flair, it was clear the Renault 5 was striking a chord. Even the driver of a Porsche Taycan momentarily abandoned the allure of their higher-performance vehicle to snap a few photos—an impressive feat for a vehicle that competes in a different league.

The real winners, however, were the local children who had never seen the original Renault 5. Their bemused yet delighted reactions proved that the allure of the car transcends generations, sparking interest from those who grew up knowing little about cars beyond the latest electric models.

An Enthusiastic Response from Renault

It’s no secret that manufacturers often exude excitement over their new models, but the buzz surrounding the Renault 5 E-Tech feels more authentic. It’s apparent that Renault’s executives, designers, and PR teams are genuinely passionate about this project. The excitement was palpable, reflecting a sense of creativity and pride that hasn’t been seen in automotive releases for quite some time. The new Renault 5 wasn’t just another product to fill a market niche; it was born out of joy and a desire to connect with drivers on a personal level.

Practicality Meets Performance

While the new Renault 5 is brimming with character, it also represents a sensible choice for daily driving. Measuring just under four meters in length, it comfortably sits within the compact hatch category, being notably shorter than a modern Clio. The vehicle features five doors and seating for four and a half, ensuring practicality is firmly built into its DNA.

Equipped with an all-new platform called AmpR, the Renault 5 E-Tech maintains conventional steel construction while stepping up the game with multi-link rear suspension—an appealing advancement over what is typically found in other B-segment vehicles. With a peak output of 148bhp and front-wheel drive, performance is adequate for urban environments but leans towards a smooth and enjoyable ride rather than hardcore acceleration.

The Conclusion: A Slice of Nostalgia with Modern Eco-Consciousness

In summary, the Renault 5 E-Tech has successfully bridged the gap between a beloved automotive past and a sustainable future. With its engaging design, enthusiastic reception, and practical features, the new 5 stands out in the crowded electric hatchback market. For £23,000, you’re not just purchasing a car; you’re investing in a slice of automotive nostalgia wrapped in the exciting envelope of modern electric mobility.

Renault has not only revived the spirit of the classic 5 but also proven that electric vehicles can be fun, engaging, and visually stimulating. The next challenge lies ahead: will this bright yellow wonder maintain its charm as it becomes a more common sight on the roads? Your guess may be as good as ours, but for now, the Renault 5 E-Tech is making waves and turning heads, one electric mile at a time.

Performance and Specifications

At the heart of the Renault 5 is a 148bhp electric motor driving the front wheels. Its 52kWh battery pack is not only cleverly tucked beneath, ensuring a low center of gravity, but also offers an impressive WLTP range of 252 miles. Weighing in at 1456kg, it’s slightly heavier than your average supermini—though still lighter than many electric vehicles on the market. For context, a hybrid Clio E-Tech tips the scales at 1323kg, indicating that while the Renault 5 is a little chunkier than its combustion-powered predecessors, it still manages to uphold an appealing weight balance. However, at around 100bhp/tonne, some driving enthusiasts might wish for a bit more punch, especially those who remember the spirited performance of the original Renault 5 Turbo.

Design: A Modern Classic

While this review usually steers clear of aesthetics, it would be remiss not to address the Renault 5’s stunning design, which has made waves among enthusiasts and casual observers alike. With its sharp lines and modern flair, it resembles a hot hatch more than many of the current performance-oriented offerings out there.

Drawing from the visual DNA of its 1970s-1990s counterparts, the new Renault 5 isn’t merely a retro homage; it stands on its own as an elegant and distinctive vehicle. Key design elements like the trapezoidal shape and the rectangular headlamps subtly pay tribute to the classics, while details like the flared arches and vibrant color palette scream modernity.

The available color options are particularly eye-catching, with alternatives like the striking Pop Yellow and Pop Green—colors that seem to say, “I’m here, and I’m fun.” Opting for the ‘Midnight Blue’ gives it a classic racing pedigree reminiscent of the Renault Clio Williams.

Interior: A Retro-Futuristic Playground

Step inside the Renault 5, and the vibrancy continues to impress. In our top-spec test car, the interior is a riot of yellow, featuring recycled fabric with eye-catching piping and stitching. The seats are an exciting nod to the infamous buckets of the past, combining modern comfort with a throwback style that will resonate with fans of the original 5 Turbo.

The digital instrument cluster and Google-based infotainment system may not be new to the market in 2024, but echoes of the Turbo’s dash pod can be felt in their layout. The innovative “Reno”—an infotainment assistant powered by AI—adds a layer of modernity that the original could hardly have imagined, introducing itself with a cheeky nod to Nevada.

The ergonomic touches continue with a padded area for the passenger, using a soft leatherette material that recalls the original’s ridged dashboard. And if you stare long enough at the steering column-mounted gear selector—especially when you choose a personalized 3D-printed design—you might even feel a nostalgic connection to the early 5’s dashboard-mounted gear lever.

First impressions matter, and the Renault 5 pulls it off well. Upon settling into the driver’s seat, there’s a familiar feeling—one that many will recognize from past Renault models. The seating position may feel a bit higher than expected, but this design choice has long been a hallmark of Renault’s philosophy, mixing sportiness and comfort. The seating itself is supportive, benefiting from quality fabric, while the steering wheel offers ample adjustments for height and reach. This ensures that finding a decent driving position is hassle-free. However, rear passenger space may feel tight, especially for taller drivers; a common trade-off in compact hatches.

One of the more distinct features of the Renault 5 is the column-mounted shifter, located just to the right of the steering wheel. While it adds a unique touch, it can feel a tad busy, especially for those not accustomed to it. In fact, several drivers may find themselves accidentally triggering the wipers instead of selecting Drive during their initial interactions. But in an electric vehicle, the shifter’s role is minimal, allowing you to focus more on the drive itself.

Powering the Renault 5 is a front-wheel-drive setup that eschews the neck-snapping torque delivery typical of some electric cars. Instead, this hatchback offers a more gradual build-up of power, which provides tangible feedback to drivers. There’s enough torque on hand for some spirited driving, with the ability to spin the front wheels on damp surfaces—a little slice of hot-hatch joy. With a claimed 0-62 mph time of around eight seconds, it’s clear that the Renault 5 means business without veering into insane territory.

The driving modes available through a neat dial on the steering wheel—labelled ‘Multi Sense’—allow users to fine-tune their experience. Whether opting for Normal, Eco, Sport, or the customizable ‘Perso’ mode, transformations in steering weight and accelerator response are palpable. Eco mode caps power and limits top speed to conserve energy, while Sport mode sharpens up the car’s responses. It’s refreshing to note that, unlike traditional hot hatches, the Renault 5 remains refined, not booming through the gears in a garish manner.

The driving experience is a highlight of the Renault 5, especially when tackling the winding roads of the Côte d’Azur. With a surprising level of tautness complemented by a well-controlled ride, this hatch can handle its own quite well. The vehicle feels solid, exhibiting minimal body roll, which boosts confidence during cornering. The steering is keen, though not as darty as some competitors like the Mini, contributing to a balanced driving experience. The integration of regenerative braking is smooth, although some may find the regenerative effect in ‘B’ mode not quite strong enough for true one-pedal driving.

At higher speeds or during aggressive cornering, the Renault 5 prioritizes safety and predictability. Interventions from traction control and ESP are noticeable but not overwhelming, promoting a more stable ride. Even when pushing the limits and employing classic hot-hatch cornering techniques, the Renault 5 responds more with a gentle four-wheel drift than the chaotic antics that could lead to loss of control.

One of the standout features of the Renault 5 is its engaging driving experience. While some may find the weight of this electric model makes it less agile compared to lighter competitors, it still offers a satisfying performance on the road. The well-weighted steering and smooth powertrain allow for a delightful driving flow. Although you might occasionally notice the tires scrubbing against the asphalt—a common sensation in EVs—the 5 maintains decent grip with its relatively narrow 195-section Continental EcoContact 6Q tires. Its chassis is well-tuned, providing stability that inspires confidence even through tricky hairpin turns, making it surprisingly fun to keep pace with spirited vehicles.

When it comes to pricing and competition, the Renault 5 faces rivals like the electric Mini Cooper E, Fiat 500e, Peugeot E-208, and Vauxhall Corsa Electric. While these alternatives offer a mixed bag of features and performance, the Renault 5 stands out with its competitive pricing ranging from £22,995 to £28,995. With a real-world range of 150 to 200 miles depending on battery size, the 5 excels in everyday usability.

It’s important to note that the Renault 5 isn’t marketed as a hot hatch, which leaves room for enthusiasts eager for more power from the upcoming 217bhp Alpine A290. However, the 5 E-Tech presents itself as an immensely likable electric hatch that drives better than expected and showcases a real-world range that meets daily needs. It’s a charming nod to the past and a smart step into the future, turning heads with its retro-inspired design that can rival even supercars in the attention it garners. The Renault 5 is set to make waves in the electric vehicle market, combining nostalgia with modern functionality.