The new Renault 5 Ev successfully marries the nostalgia of its heritage with the innovation of today’s electric technology. This car isn’t just a mode of transport—it’s a carefully crafted homage to a bygone era, especially to the Renault 5 GT Turbo I adored as a teenager.

Performance & Handling

On the road, the Renault 5 Ev surprised me with its spirited performance. Despite having a fast BMW in my lineup, its electric motor delivers instant torque that translates to a peppy, engaging drive. Agile and responsive, the car makes everyday urban driving a fun and lively experience. The low center of gravity and well-tuned suspension provide an unexpectedly dynamic response, proving that compact size can coexist with exhilarating performance.

Interior Comfort & Practicality

Inside the cabin, Renault has crafted a driver-centric environment that balances modern digital interfaces with an understated design ethos. While the front seats are supportive and feature an ergonomically arranged cockpit, rear passengers might find the limited leg room somewhat restrictive. This compact layout, however, reinforces the car’s urban charm, making it ideal for spirited city drives rather than long-distance journeys with multiple passengers.

Heritage Design & Exterior Aesthetics

Perhaps the most captivating aspect of the Renault 5 Ev is its design—a clear tribute to the spirit of the original Renault 5 GT Turbo. As someone who spent my teenage years captivated by the GT Turbo’s bold character, I was thrilled to see elements of that design reinterpreted for modern drivers. The new Renault 5 Ev sports sculpted lines and playful curves that recall the iconic silhouette of its predecessor while incorporating modern aerodynamic refinements.

The standout green finish is not merely a color choice—it’s a nod to the vibrant personality and adventurous spirit of the GT Turbo era. Subtle design accents, such as retro-inspired headlight shapes and a streamlined, minimalist dashboard, evoke memories of the classic model without compromising on contemporary functionality. Renault has managed to capture the essence of that youthful zest and racing heritage, bridging the gap between past passion and future mobility.

Charging & Range

Renault offers practical battery options that cater to both everyday needs and longer journeys. The base model comes with a 40 kWh battery, delivering an estimated range of around 190 miles—perfect for daily urban commuting. For drivers requiring more travel flexibility, the larger 52 kWh battery variant offers approximately 255 miles on a single charge, under optimal conditions.

Charging is straightforward and efficient. Using a standard household socket (about 2.3 kW AC), you can typically go from 20% to 80% battery in roughly 10 hours and 30 minutes on the 40 kWh version (13 hours and 40 minutes for the 52 kWh variant). For those seeking a quicker top-up, a dedicated 3.7 kW charger can reduce this time significantly, bringing the charging window down to around 6 hours and 30 minutes. This versatility ensures that whether you’re topping off overnight or utilizing public charging stations during a busy day, the Renault 5 Ev is ready to perform when you need it most.

Value Proposition

In today’s competitive electric vehicle market, where innovative tech often carries a premium price tag, the Renault 5 Ev stands out as an exceptional value. It blends spirited performance, retro charm, and modern efficiency with a price that attracts urban drivers looking for a distinctive yet practical electric car. The strong value proposition extends beyond the driving experience—it’s an invitation to relive the excitement of the past, reimagined for the future.

Final Thoughts

The Renault 5 Ev is much more than just an electric car; it’s a bridge between eras. By faithfully embracing design cues from the revered 90’s Renault 5, it rekindles the youthful thrill and unmistakable character that made the original such a beloved icon. Combined with its nimble performance, flexible charging options, and admirable value, this car is a compelling choice for anyone looking to enjoy a modern twist on retro classics.

If you’re interested in exploring even more about its tech integrations or comparing it to other heritage-inspired electric vehicles, there’s plenty more we can delve into. 

Thanks

Many thanks to Nick at Smith Renult in Peterborough for arranging the test drive. https://www.smithsmotorgroup.co.uk/renault/