Renault 5 E-Tech: First Driving Impressions – A Retro Icon with a Modern Twist
The new Renault 5 E-Tech is more than just another small electric car. It’s a statement of style, a nod to the past, and a glimpse into the future of urban mobility. This modern icon has captured the market's attention, quickly becoming one of Renault's best-selling models. After getting behind the wheel, I can confidently say this car has a personality, a certain charisma that sets it apart—but it also comes with a few quirks you should know about.
This in-depth review covers everything from its unique retro design and thrilling performance to its practical limitations and what it's really like to live with on a daily basis.
Design and Practicality: An Exercise in Style and Compromise
The moment you slide into the driver's seat, you're greeted by a stunning, retro-inspired dashboard that feels both nostalgic and modern. However, the first practical challenge becomes immediately apparent: the view. The windscreen is noticeably narrow, and the thick A-pillars create significant blind spots, making you crane your neck at traffic lights.
As for space, the Renault 5 prioritizes its compact footprint. At just under 4 meters long, it's a true city car. While the front seats are comfortable, the rear cabin is quite tight. Passengers with larger feet will find it difficult to fit them under the front seats, making it a bit cramped for adults on longer journeys. The trunk offers a decent 326 liters of space, which is average for its class—enough for a weekly grocery run but not a cargo hauler.
Value and Features: A Question of Priorities
The tested 150 hp version of the Renault 5 E-Tech starts at a price just over €31,000, while the 122 hp model begins at €27,900. While competitors like the Hyundai Inster might offer a lower starting price and some standard features like a 360° camera, the Renault 5 comes with a crucial advantage: a heat pump is standard. This feature significantly improves range in colder climates, a factor that often costs extra on competing models.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal taste and priorities. Are you willing to pay a premium for a car that offers a more emotional driving experience and a standout design, or do you prioritize a lower initial cost and a few more tech features?
Driver-Assist Systems: The Good, the Bad, and the Annoying
Modern cars are packed with technology, and the Renault 5 is no exception. Its lane departure warning system has a reputation in online forums for being overly aggressive on narrow roads. However, during my test drive, it behaved surprisingly well, offering subtle guidance without being intrusive. Thankfully, if you find it annoying, a quick press of a button turns it off.
On the other hand, the "Hey Reno" voice assistant left a lot to be desired. Its responses often felt slow and unhelpful, making it a frustrating feature rather than a practical one. For now, sticking to the physical controls might be a better option.
Performance and Handling: A Pure Thrill Ride
This is where the Renault 5 E-Tech truly shines. With 150 hp, this car feels incredibly quick off the line. Its acceleration is sharp, and the short wheelbase makes it feel exceptionally agile and responsive. The traction control system does have to work hard to keep everything in check under heavy acceleration, but the result is a thrilling, lively ride.
The car's low center of gravity and well-tuned multi-link rear axle give it remarkable stability, allowing you to confidently tackle corners with minimal body roll. Compared to its predecessor, the Renault Zoe, the new R5 feels like a performance car—it drives with a sense of purpose and fun that the older, more utilitarian model simply lacked.
Range and Charging: Meeting the Urban Need
The Renault 5 E-Tech, equipped with the larger 52 kWh battery, provides a realistic range of around 300 km (186 miles). While the official range is over 400 km, this is more achievable in urban environments where regenerative braking is frequent.
For charging, it supports a maximum fast charging speed of 100 kW. This is perfectly adequate for a small city car, allowing for a quick top-up on the go. However, it's not a segment-leading figure and won't set any speed records compared to larger, more expensive electric vehicles. It’s a solid, reliable charging performance that meets the needs of most daily commuters.
Final Verdict: A Car with Character and Charm
The Renault 5 E-Tech is not a flawless vehicle. Its tight rear space, a less-than-perfect voice assistant, and its premium price for the design may be sticking points for some buyers.
However, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. Its stunning retro design gives it a unique presence on the road. The incredibly fun and engaging driving dynamics make every journey feel exciting. Its comfortable chassis and surprisingly quiet cabin—even at high speeds—add to the overall quality experience.
In the end, the Renault 5 E-Tech proves that a car doesn’t have to be perfect to be loved. It has character, style, and a joyful spirit that puts it in a class of its own. It's an emotional purchase, but one that’s easy to justify once you get behind the wheel.