Since Renault teased the return of the legendary Renault 5 with an electrifying concept back in 2021, anticipation has grown steadily. We finally had the opportunity to get behind the wheel of this all-new electric iteration, and from the streets of Brussels to Belgium’s countryside, one thing was clear: Renault aims to blend nostalgia with a sustainable vision for the future. With its quirky charm, impressive practicality, and lively drive, the Renault 5 Electric could well be the coolest city car of 2024. But does it truly capture the spirit of the beloved classic, and how well does it compete in today’s crowded EV market?
Compact yet bold: dimensions and exterior design
At just 3.92 meters long, the new Renault 5 maintains a compact profile perfect for urban life, striking a smart balance between Renault’s smaller Twingo and the slightly larger Clio. Its design is undeniably neo-retro, paying homage to the original R5 from 1972 and even borrowing stylistic cues from the 1984 Supercinq and the muscular R5 Turbo.
Instantly recognizable yet distinctly modern, the exterior boasts playful details such as vibrant launch colors like striking yellow, playful LED lights that evoke the original’s cheeky look, and unique elements like a hood-mounted battery indicator—reminiscent of the old-school air vent. Throughout our test around Belgian roads, this car turned heads and prompted smiles, sparking nostalgic conversations at every stoplight and café terrace.
Not just for show, practical design choices like aerodynamic tail lights, sculpted spoilers, and optimized wheel designs contribute significantly to efficiency, adding around 20 km to the overall range.
Vintage comfort meets modern ergonomics inside
Inside the Renault 5, Renault continues its nostalgic narrative by marrying vintage flair with contemporary technology. The cabin offers a welcoming ambiance, notably featuring textured fabric and recycled materials that beautifully echo the original model’s charm. Despite its compact size, space feels generous upfront, thanks to an intelligently optimized layout based on Renault’s new AmprSmall platform.
The modernity is evident with its dual-screen setup: a 10-inch digital instrument panel paired with an intuitive infotainment touchscreen, developed in collaboration with Google. Connectivity remains seamless with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, complemented by the innovative “Hey Reno” voice assistant, integrating ChatGPT technology for smarter interactions.
Front occupants enjoy excellent comfort and ergonomics, with supportive seats and thoughtful storage. However, rear-seat passengers face somewhat limited legroom, a trade-off typical for compact city cars. Despite this, practicality isn’t compromised—offering 326 liters of boot space, easily expandable with foldable seats, ideal for weekend getaways or city shopping.
Powertrain options for every lifestyle
At launch, Renault equips the Renault 5 Electric with a robust 52 kWh battery paired to a spirited 150 hp electric motor. This combination ensures dynamic performance, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in around 8 seconds—more than sufficient for urban agility and spirited country drives. Renault also promises future, more accessible variants with a smaller 40 kWh battery and less powerful motors (95 and 122 hp), ideal for purely urban drivers who prioritize affordability over long-range capability.
Charging convenience is another standout feature. The 52 kWh model can recharge from 15% to 80% in just 30 minutes on fast chargers, or approximately 4.5 hours on an 11 kW AC home charger. With a real-world range averaging around 300 kilometers, anxiety about daily use fades quickly.
A delightful driving experience
On the road, Renault’s electric hatchback immediately shines through its well-balanced chassis, nimble steering, and comfortable yet responsive suspension. It gracefully navigates tight city streets with agility, while also confidently cruising on highways and winding country roads. Its quietness and refined ride quality truly enhance the electric driving experience, immersing occupants in calm serenity punctuated only by the satisfying hum of electric propulsion.
During our Belgian road test, we enjoyed its predictable handling and dynamic character, demonstrating Renault’s prowess in blending driving pleasure and everyday usability. The balance between comfort and sportiness positions it as a compelling alternative to the typically harsher Mini Electric or softer Peugeot e-208.
Facing the competition: how does the R5 stack up?
In the rapidly growing electric city car market, competition is fierce. Renault places the R5 directly against style-conscious rivals like the Fiat 500 Electric and the Mini Cooper E. While these rivals offer undeniable charisma, the Renault 5 brings its unique blend of retro-inspired charm, superior practicality (with five seats versus four in rivals), and notably better range at launch.
However, it remains pricier at its initial release, a factor Renault aims to address with more affordable variants expected in 2025. This will be key in battling emerging competition such as the aggressively priced Citroën ë-C3 and various affordable Chinese entrants.
Pricing and availability in Belgium
Initially, Belgian customers have access to the top-end versions priced from €29,500 (Techno trim) to €31,500 (Iconic trim), prices already reflecting Belgium’s eco-bonus. While not inexpensive for a compact car, the R5 justifies this pricing with its high-quality interior, extensive technology, and generous standard equipment.
More accessible versions, expected from early 2025, will lower entry points significantly, starting around €27,990 (excluding eco-bonuses), which will likely boost Renault’s ambition of democratizing electric mobility.
Conclusion: the neo-retro electric city star
With this electric reincarnation of a beloved icon, Renault successfully combines emotion-driven design, joyful driving, and practical technology into one appealing package. It’s a car designed not just to move people, but to stir their hearts and spark conversation—something increasingly rare in today’s automotive landscape.
Pros:
- Distinctive neo-retro style
- Engaging driving experience
- Practical interior layout and technology
- Strong initial range and efficient charging
Cons:
- Limited rear passenger space
- Premium pricing at launch
- Lower-resolution reversing camera feels outdated
Ultimately, Renault’s new electric R5 beautifully honors its heritage while confidently embracing the future. It’s charming, practical, and irresistibly fun—a vibrant addition to Belgium’s electric urban landscape.
Indeed, the Renault 5 Electric represents a nostalgic comeback that’s surprisingly delightful!
