The Renault 5 holds a special place in automotive history, a symbol of practicality and charm. For 2025, Renault has resurrected this beloved nameplate, not as a retro throwback with a combustion engine, but as a thoroughly modern, all-electric city car: the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric. This new iteration aims to capture the spirit of the original while embracing the future of mobility with a focus on style, technology, and urban agility.
Design: A Nod to the Past, Firmly in the Present
The design of the 2025 Renault 5 E-Tech is a masterclass in retro-futurism. It cleverly incorporates iconic elements of its predecessor without resorting to mere imitation. The familiar silhouette, the upright stance, and the wide rear haunches are all present, but reimagined with a contemporary electric vehicle aesthetic.
Key design highlights include:
- Distinctive Lighting: The front features rectangular LED headlights with a daytime running light signature that echoes the original's friendly "eyes." The rear boasts vertical LED taillights integrated into the tailgate, a direct reference to the classic R5.
- Aerodynamic Details: Flush door handles on higher trims contribute to a cleaner look and improved aerodynamics. Sculpted surfaces and subtle creases add a modern touch.
- Customization: Renault is expected to offer a range of customization options, including vibrant exterior colors and wheel designs, allowing owners to personalize their 5 E-Tech.
- "Air Scoops": The indentations on the bonnet, reminiscent of the original's air intake, now house charging indicators, a playful and functional detail.
The 5 E-Tech manages to be both instantly recognizable as a Renault 5 and undeniably a car of the 21st century. Its compact dimensions make it ideal for navigating urban environments, while its design exudes a sense of fun and approachability.
Interior and Technology: Modernity Meets Comfort
Inside, the Renault 5 E-Tech blends modern technology with a focus on a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. The dashboard features a clean and uncluttered design, dominated by digital displays.
- OpenR Link System: The dashboard houses a 10-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch central touchscreen infotainment system running Renault's OpenR Link, powered by Google. This provides seamless integration with Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store, offering a user-friendly and connected driving experience.
- Sustainable Materials: Renault emphasizes the use of recycled materials throughout the cabin, aligning with the growing focus on sustainability in the automotive industry.
- Comfort and Space: Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the 5 E-Tech aims to offer decent interior space for its class, comfortably seating four adults. The flat floor, thanks to the EV architecture, enhances rear passenger comfort. Boot space is a respectable 326 liters.
- Ambient Lighting: Customizable ambient lighting adds a touch of personalization to the cabin.
The interior of the 5 E-Tech feels modern and airy, with a focus on intuitive technology and a pleasant environment for both the driver and passengers.
Powertrain, Battery, and Range: Electric Efficiency for Urban Life
The Renault 5 E-Tech is exclusively electric, offering a range of battery and motor options tailored for urban and slightly longer journeys.
- Battery Options: Three battery sizes are expected: 40 kWh, 52 kWh, and a smaller entry-level option. The 52 kWh battery is projected to offer a WLTP range of around 400 kilometers (approximately 249 miles), making it suitable for daily commutes and weekend trips.
- Motor Options: Power outputs will vary depending on the battery size, with the top-spec version expected to deliver around 110 kW (148 hp). This should provide sufficient performance for zippy urban driving.
- Charging: The 5 E-Tech will support AC charging and DC fast charging, allowing for convenient top-ups at home, work, or on the go. The 52 kWh battery version can charge at up to 100 kW DC, enabling a 15-80% charge in roughly 30 minutes.
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): Some versions of the 5 E-Tech are expected to feature V2L capability, allowing the car to act as a mobile power source for external devices.
The focus of the 5 E-Tech's powertrain is on efficiency and practicality for everyday use, with a range that should alleviate range anxiety for most urban dwellers.
Driving Experience: Agile and Fun in the City
As a compact electric city car, the Renault 5 E-Tech is engineered for agility and ease of driving in urban environments. The instant torque of the electric motor provides quick acceleration, making it ideal for navigating traffic.
- Compact Dimensions: Its small footprint and tight turning radius will make parking and maneuvering in crowded city streets a breeze.
- Refined Ride: Electric vehicles are inherently quieter than their combustion engine counterparts, promising a more relaxed and refined driving experience.
- e-Pedal Driving: Renault's regenerative braking system, similar to Nissan's e-Pedal (as they share the CMF-B EV platform), will likely allow for significant one-pedal driving, enhancing efficiency and driver engagement.
The 5 E-Tech is expected to offer a nimble and enjoyable driving experience, perfectly suited to the urban landscape it's designed for.
Safety and Technology: Modern Assistance Features
The 2025 Renault 5 E-Tech will come equipped with a suite of modern safety and driver assistance features. While specific details are still emerging, expect to see:
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Including features like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, automatic emergency braking,
and traffic sign recognition. - Multiple Airbags: Providing comprehensive occupant protection.
- High Safety Standards: Renault typically aims for high ratings in Euro NCAP safety assessments.
The integration of the OpenR Link system also brings advanced connectivity features, enhancing both convenience and safety.
Trim Levels and Availability
Renault is expected to offer the 5 E-Tech in various trim levels, each with different features and price points. The official launch is anticipated in 2024, with vehicles likely hitting showrooms in early 2025.
Pricing details are yet to be fully confirmed, but Renault aims to position the 5 E-Tech competitively within the electric city car segment, making it an accessible option for those looking to switch to electric mobility.
Conclusion: A Charming Electric Revolution
The 2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Electric is more than just a revival of a classic name; it's a compelling entry into the electric vehicle market. By cleverly blending retro design cues with modern technology and an efficient electric powertrain, Renault has created a city car with character and purpose. Its focus on urban agility, a user-friendly tech interface, and a commitment to sustainability makes the 5 E-Tech a highly anticipated and potentially game-changing vehicle in its segment. It successfully captures the spirit of the original while embracing the electric future, promising to be a charming and practical companion for urban life.
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