Renault 5: Resurrecting old models is a tricky one. Like the dead, some things are just best left in our memories; it wouldn’t be right to dig up grandma, so why dig up, say, the Ford Capri?
Some manufacturers have nailed it over the years, however, take the Alpine A110, Fiat 500 and Suzuki Jimny, for example. These are cars that most of us don’t mind seeing on the roads. And in many ways, the manufacturer has improved them by adding zestier engines with better gearboxes, comfortable interiors and more tech.
The first 5 was iconic and captured the hearts of many families in Europe. It was cheap and cheerful—a car for everyone. Those seeking more could buy the hot turbo guises, which are still considered quick by today’s standards.
This said, a Renault 5 resurrection made people nervous, including me. However, after its launch into the growing small electric city car sector in 2024, nerves quickly gave way to excitement, and many couldn’t wait to get behind the wheel.
What Is The Renault 5?
The Renault 5 is a small electric city car that pays homage to its 1970s ancestor: it’s nimble, affordable, easy to park, and is available in vibrant colours. Unlike the old car, this one is purely electric. It’s also slightly larger and wider than its ancestor.
There are two powertrain choices—120hp and 150hp, and four trim levels: evolution, techno, Iconic five and Roland Garros. Choose the 120hp, and you’ll get a 192-mile (WLTP) 40kWh battery. Step up to the 150hp, and this increases to 52kWh and 252 miles.
You’ll also get a slight hike in performance with 0-62mph taking 9 seconds for the entry-level 40kWh version, and 7.9 seconds for the more powerful car. Both feel more than adequate for everyday use.
All cars feature an 11kW AC charging system; however, the 40kWh will charge at 80kW DC, while the 52kWh battery is claimed to charge at 100kW DC, although I only saw 87kW. 15 to 80 per cent took under 30 minutes in a car fitted with the larger battery.
When plugged into my Easee One 7.4 kW charger, the car took 7 hours and 40 minutes to charge from empty to full, and once full, showed 221 miles in eco mode, falling short of the manufacturer’s claimed figure.
What’s great is that all cars, except the entry-level model, get a charging light on the bonnet.
What Is The Renault 5 Like To Drive?
My test car was fitted with the 150hp engine, which was perfect for everyday driving. As you would probably expect, the car runs out of puff quickly at motorway speeds, but there’s still enough punch to overtake slower traffic. It’s also efficient. On longer runs, the Renault 5 returned 4.0mi/kWh during my testing.
Through town is where the Renault 5 excels. Its minuscule proportions make it easy to park, and there are plenty of sensors onboard to keep you right if your desired parking space is quite small.
Likewise, while I expected my Renault 5 test car fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels to hop over potholes and dislocate my spine, it instead soaked them up, sending only light judders through the cabin.
There’s plenty of fun to be had on a twisty road, too. There’s body roll, sure, but it builds over time and adds charm to the way the 5 takes corners. And what’s better, is that you can turn off all the annoying speed warnings and other safety systems via a button on the dashboard.
This car would suit couples or solo drivers who commute in and out of towns and cities, but it’s best kept as a second car for families with children. This is because there isn’t much legroom in the back, nor is there much room in the boot, despite it being on the larger size for a car in this category.
Luckily, there’s a 27-litre compartment under the boot floor that’s perfect for stashing cables. And although the boot is deep, its large lip makes loading larger items a tricky affair.
Renault 5 Verdict
This is an awesome little car, and one I struggled to let go of at the end of the week. I adore its quirky styling and how it makes you feel behind the wheel; this is one resurrection that I really don’t mind.
Despite the Renault 5 not being from my generation, the car often got a nod from those who remember the original well, and that’s because the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree here.
If a small electric city car with a decent range and quick charging is what you seek, then look no further than the Renault 5. If you plan on using this as your daily driver, be ready to make some sacrifices.
The Renault 5 is priced from £21,495 and stretches to £28,695 for the range-topping Roland Garros.