Why the electric Renault 5 is definitely not a city car like the others

The discovery of a new automobile always takes place over several very distinct stages. From the first glimpse on a computer-generated image to long runs in real life, including discovery in a studio away from prying eyes and “press” tests in often favorable conditions, these are all moments that shape a notice. Needless to say, it took a long time to form a conviction about the new Renault 5 electric, between the appearance of the show car in 2021 and this launch year. Three years of gestation for the Losange – it’s short! – which inevitably raised expectations. But we must recognize that after several handlings in numerous circumstances, the French city car does not disappoint. It even benefits from a special status among small electrics, confirming all the care taken by Renault on the one which must “reconcile the brand with the French and popularize electrics” as Luca De Meo liked to announce.

Well designed, well personalized

Aesthetically, the electric R5 immediately demonstrates real attention to detail. Beyond the undoubtedly successful stroke of the pencil, the illuminated charge indicator on the hood, the complex front light signature which remains efficient and minimalist, but also at the rear with as many slats to accentuate the 3D effector even body paints with shiny reflections are choices more expensive than the average in this category dedicated solely to seduction. More widespread, the two-tone is not surprising, but the colored edging which highlights the roof, which also depends on the color of the car, is not commonplace.

Also in the cabin, the choice of materials for this new electric Renault 5 makes it a car that stands out among city cars. Apart from Mini, which also covers its interior with textile and uses a new circular touch screen, we hardly find a dashboard as original as that of the French. The quilting facing the passenger and the embossing on the headliner provide additional exclusivity. In the wake of the R5, the new Renault 4 will also benefit, but it is under the impetus of the “5”. Just like the automatic gearbox lever, which can be personalized here although this element is usually “fixed”.

To drive, the electric Renault 5 stands out from the rest

Technically, too, the Renault 5 doesn’t do things by halves. If the autonomy of the 52 kWh battery of the Renault 5 is not a reference but is just average, the development of the chassis appears to be very careful. Renault deliberately made it a lively city car on the road, with incisive steering, precise handling and a pleasant level of comfort given the almost sporting capabilities of this electric chip.. Thanks to the multi-link rear axle, again a refinement often dedicated to higher categories. We must also mention its battery charger, more sophisticated than the others. The charging power – 11 kW as standard, 22 kW optional and 100 kW direct current – ​​is nothing specific, but the possibility of connecting small devices to the car (scooter, barbecue, telephone, etc.), or even to redistribute energy in the urban network – even if the appropriate terminal is required – are an integral part of the capabilities of this R5 and this is a first. A French company which also confirms the desire of its manufacturer to return to manufacturing on its soil, even if the Mégane E-Tech had started the ball rolling in this direction from 2021.

Like the R5 of 1972, that of 2024, converted to electrons, will be a landmark in the Losange tablets. She still needs to win over enough customers each year to establish herself as a reference, but this little French girl definitely has an eye for detail, to the delight of those who had already fallen for her, or those who are still hesitant.