The New Renault 5 E-Tech: A Retro Revival with Electrifying Performance

The Renault 5 is back, and it’s bringing a jolt of nostalgia wrapped in a modern electric package! Unveiled at the 2024 Geneva Motor Show and hitting the roads in 2025, this reborn icon blends the charm of its 1970s predecessor with cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) technology. Designed as a stylish, affordable, and fun-to-drive supermini, the Renault 5 E-Tech is poised to take on rivals like the Mini Cooper Electric, Fiat 500e, and Peugeot e-208. Let’s dive into what makes this car special, with a close look at its performance specs and why it’s generating so much buzz.

A Nod to the Past, Built for the Future

The original Renault 5 was a beloved hatchback that dominated French roads in the ‘70s and ‘80s, known for its quirky design and nimble handling. The new Renault 5 E-Tech keeps that spirit alive with retro-inspired styling—think squared-off wheel arches, vertical taillights, and a cheeky “winking” LED headlight feature—while embracing a fully electric powertrain. It’s built on Renault’s AmpR Small platform (formerly CMF-B EV), a dedicated EV architecture that promises efficiency and agility. At just under 3.92 meters long, it’s compact enough for city streets but packs enough punch to make it a versatile daily driver.

Performance Specs: Power and Pep in a Small Package

The Renault 5 E-Tech comes with two battery options and multiple power outputs, catering to different driving needs. Here’s the breakdown:

• Battery Options:

  • 40 kWh: The entry-level battery offers a WLTP range of up to 196 miles (around 300 km). It’s ideal for urban commuters who don’t need long-distance capability.

  • 52 kWh: The larger battery boosts the range to an impressive 252 miles (around 400 km), making it competitive with pricier EVs in its class. Both use Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt (NMC) chemistry, split into fewer, larger modules for better efficiency and weight savings.

• Motor Options:

  • 95 hp (70 kW): Paired exclusively with the 40 kWh battery, this base model is designed for efficiency over speed. It doesn’t support DC fast charging, but it’s perfect for city driving with a top speed of 93 mph (150 km/h).

  • 120 hp (90 kW): Also tied to the 40 kWh battery, this version offers a bit more pep, hitting 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 9.0 seconds. It supports DC charging at up to 80 kW.

  • 150 hp (110 kW): The top-tier motor, available only with the 52 kWh battery, delivers 148-150 hp depending on the source (Renault claims “under 8 seconds” to 62 mph, with real-world tests clocking around 8.0-8.2 seconds). It’s the punchiest option, with a torque figure of 225 Nm, ensuring lively acceleration around town and on highways.

• Charging Capabilities:

  • AC Charging: All models support up to 11 kW, meaning a full charge takes 6-9 hours on a 7 kW home charger.

  • DC Fast Charging: The 40 kWh/120 hp version tops out at 80 kW, while the 52 kWh/150 hp model reaches 100 kW. Both can charge from 15% to 80% in about 30 minutes—pretty solid for a small EV.

  • Bonus Features: The 5 includes bidirectional charging (vehicle-to-load, or V2L), letting you power appliances, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) compatibility rolling out in 2025 in the UK. A heat pump comes standard, boosting efficiency in cold weather.

• Weight and Handling:

  • The 40 kWh model weighs a sprightly 1,372 kg, while the 52 kWh version tips the scales at 1,449-1,461 kg—light for an EV, thanks to a magnet-free motor design and clever battery layout. A multi-link rear suspension (a rarity in this segment) promises sharper handling than rivals with simpler torsion beam setups, paired with direct steering for a responsive feel.

Driving the Renault 5: What to Expect

Early reviews praise the Renault 5 for striking a balance between comfort and fun. It’s not a hot hatch—that’s where the upcoming Alpine A290 steps in with up to 215 hp—but it’s no slouch either. The 150 hp version feels “punchy around town and responsive on motorways,” with quick steering that makes it agile in tight corners. The brake-by-wire system stands out, offering a firm, predictable pedal feel that’s rare among EVs, blending regenerative and friction braking seamlessly. While the “B” mode regen isn’t strong enough for true one-pedal driving, the overall setup prioritizes safety and predictability over aggressive dynamics.

The ride is comfy for a small car, soaking up bumps despite the 18-inch wheels, and the low driving position avoids that perched-on-a-battery feel of some EVs. At 93 mph, the top speed is electronically capped, but it’s more than enough for a car designed for urban and suburban jaunts.

Beyond Performance: Practicality and Style

Beyond the specs, the Renault 5 shines with thoughtful details. The 326-liter boot outclasses the Mini Cooper E (210 liters) and Fiat 500e (185 liters), and a towing capacity of 500 kg is a unique perk in this class. Inside, recycled fabrics and bold color options (like Pop Yellow or Midnight Blue) nod to the original’s flair, while dual 10-inch screens (7-inch on base trim) bring modern tech with Google apps, wireless CarPlay, and a ChatGPT-powered assistant named “Reno.”

Pricing starts at £22,995 in the UK for the 40 kWh Evolution trim, climbing to £28,995 for the 52 kWh Iconic Five—undercutting rivals like the Mini (£30k+) and Peugeot e-208 (£28k+). It’s a compelling value proposition for a car that’s both practical and dripping with personality.

The Verdict

The Renault 5 E-Tech isn’t just a retro cash-grab—it’s a well-executed EV that blends nostalgia with substance. With up to 150 hp, a 252-mile range, and fast-charging chops, it’s got the performance to match its looks. Whether you’re weaving through city streets or cruising the suburbs, this little hatchback delivers a driving experience that’s as joyful as its design suggests. If you want more power, hold out for the Alpine A290, but for most, the standard 5 hits the sweet spot. Deliveries start in Q1 2025, and with an R-Pass (£150) you can jump the queue. Are you ready to relive the Renault 5 legend, electrified? I know I am!