Renault 5 E-Tech 2025 review
Photo: Alexander Migl (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Renault 5 E-Tech is the car that made electric motoring desirable again in Britain. Reviving the beloved 1970s supermini nameplate, it went on sale in the UK in January 2025 priced from £22,995 — undercutting almost every rival EV. It was then crowned UK Car of the Year 2026, with 20 of the 33 judges voting for it after it had already won the Small Car category.
Two versions are offered. The 40kWh model has 120hp and 190–193 miles of WLTP range, while the 52kWh version brings 150hp and 248–252 miles. Both are front-wheel drive with a single-speed transmission, covering 0–62mph in 9.0 and 7.9 seconds respectively, with a 93mph top speed. DC rapid charging runs at 80kW on the smaller battery and 100kW on the larger one, and a heat pump — rare at this price — is standard across the range.
Three trim levels were offered at launch: Evolution, Techno and Iconic Five. The retro styling hides thoroughly modern tech, including Google built-in infotainment and vehicle-to-load (V2L) bidirectional charging that can power external devices. The 326-litre boot is about average for a supermini.
In 2026 the 5 became one of the very few EVs eligible for the full £3,750 Electric Car Grant, cutting the starting price to £21,495. Fun to drive, cheap to run and dripping with character, it is the small electric car to beat.
Related reviews: Renault 4 E Tech 2025 review · Renault Arkana 2024 review · Renault Austral 2024 review
UK price from: £22,995
Specifications
| Battery | 40 kWh / 52 kWh |
| Power | 120 hp / 150 hp |
| Range (WLTP) | 190–193 miles (40kWh); 248–252 miles (52kWh) |
| 0-62 mph | 9.0 seconds (40kWh); 7.9 seconds (52kWh) |
| Top speed | 93 mph |
| DC charging | 80 kW (40kWh); 100 kW (52kWh) |
| Transmission | Single-speed automatic |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Boot space | 326 litres |
| Seats | 5 |
| Heat pump | Standard |
Features
- 40kWh (120hp) or 52kWh (150hp) battery options
- Up to 252 miles of WLTP range
- 100kW DC rapid charging on the 52kWh version
- Heat pump fitted as standard
- Google built-in infotainment with 10.1-inch touchscreen
- Vehicle-to-load (V2L) bidirectional charging
- Adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assistance
- Three trim levels: Evolution, Techno and Iconic Five
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cabin pollen filter | £21.99 | Replace every 2 years |
| Front wiper blades (pair) | £27.99 | Flat aero blades |
| Front brake pads (set) | £64.99 | Low wear on EVs thanks to regenerative braking |
| 12V auxiliary battery | £119.99 | |
| Replacement tyre (EV-rated) | £129.99 | Check size: 195/55 R18 on most trims |
| Type 2 charging cable (5m) | £149.99 | 32A single-phase |
Pros
- UK Car of the Year 2026 — judges loved the blend of style and value
- Heat pump and Google infotainment standard from £22,995
- Genuinely fun to drive, with retro charm in spades
- Eligible for the full £3,750 Electric Car Grant
Cons
- The 40kWh version's sub-200-mile range limits longer trips
- 326-litre boot is only average for the class
- Rear-seat space is snug for taller adults
- 80kW charging on the base model trails the fastest rivals
Frequently asked questions
Did the Renault 5 E-Tech win UK Car of the Year?
What is the real-world range of the Renault 5 E-Tech?
How fast does the Renault 5 E-Tech charge?
Does the Renault 5 qualify for the Electric Car Grant?
Which Renault 5 E-Tech version should I buy?
Owner reviews
Write your review
Related cars
Renault Clio 2024
Renault Zoe 2024
Renault Captur 2024
