We’re happy when Business Car appears to start a trend. I say this, as we were one of the first to recognise the new Renault 5 E-Tech, which received our ‘One to Watch’ award at last year’s Business Car Awards.
Since then, we’ve been lucky enough to attend the international launch, and after driving it, think it’s thoroughly deserving of the various industry awards since. Plus, the coveted Car of the Year trophy.
Now it’s time for the 5 E-Tech to be launched in the UK, with the first UK buyers taking delivery of their cars. This gives us the perfect excuse to get behind the wheel of right- hand drive versions of the 150hp model, plus a first drive of the 120hp version.
Design and interior
The Chilterns in mid-March isn’t as special as the South of France last October, but in its bright colour, with its contrasting black roof and red roofline, the 5 still looks fantastic. Again, we love the period details, such as the ‘5’ charge indicator on the left- hand side of the bonnet (where the air vent was on the original), the vertical rear light clusters, and short overhangs. It is a design that isn’t too retro, and you appreciate more the more time you spend with it. We’re still spotting ‘Easter egg’ design details, such as the Tricolour flag in the front headlights.
Inside, like the outside, the 5 continues to feel special, but its retro-futuristic design makes it feel like the latest version of the seventies original. Highlights include the distinctive air vents, and the clever contrast-stitched panel on the passenger side – which draws your eyes away from the hard interior plastics. Plus, the two 10in screens for the infotainment and instruments.
The driving position is excellent, with decent space. The tombstone-like seats echo those fitted in original 5s and are supportive, plus attractively trimmed in the retro-style cloth. Sadly, all the room in the front comes at the expense of rear space. Legroom is at best average – and the tallest rear passengers might find their heads brushing the textured roof lining. Elsewhere, there’s a deep 326-litre boot, although the high loading lip doesn’t help the practicality.
Performance and drive
The 5 E-Tech is offered with two batteries – a 40kWh with an expected range of up to 190 miles, and the 52kWh that we drove previously, which is expected to have a range of up to 250 miles. There are two powertrains, a 90kW version with 120hp, or the 110kW, with 150hp. When it comes to charging, all 5 models benefit from 11kW (AC) charging as standard, with up to 100 kW (DC) charging, depending on the battery.
We spent most of our time in the 40kWh version, that we didn’t drive at launch. Again, the comfortable and composed ride impress first, thanks to the AmpR chassis architecture. In fact, we think it’s even comfier than the 52kWh model – probably as result of the smaller battery. Then there’s the precise steering – better than the Fiat Grande Panda’s, although it’s not quite as good as the electric version of our current Business Car of The Year, the Mini Cooper SE. There’s also some body roll, and the handbrake setup is fiddly. Still, the 40kWh version remains a perky performer, and a tidy, fun drive.
The 52kWh version offers largely the same driving experience, with more performance and range – although the ride is (slightly) less resolved.
Evolution, Techno (the version we drove), and Iconic equipment grades are available. All are well equipped, and fantastic value for money, with prices starting at £22,995, which is less money than the Mini Cooper E – with the Renault having the same range.
Talking of the range, both were down on their WLTP figures, but in their defence, the cars were new and the weather cold. Ultimately, the new Renault 5 deserves its likely fleet success.
Positive: Brilliant design inside and out, composed ride, fantastic value for money, fun to drive
Negative: Fiddly handbrake control, compromised rear legroom, high boot loading lip, interior quality not as sharp as the design, smaller battery will mean more time at the chargers
Standard Equipment: 18in alloy wheels, dual 10in screens for driver information and infotainment, advanced ADAS systems.
Engines: Electric: 120hp, 150hp
Equipment grades: Evolution, Techno, Iconic
Transmission: Single-speed auto
| Model | Renault 5 E-Tech Techno 40kWh |
| P11D | £24,940 |
| Residual value | 38% |
| Depreciation | £15,535 |
| Fuel | £3,011 |
| Service, maintenance and repair | £1,744 |
| Cost per mile | 33.81p |
| Range | 186 miles |
| CO2 (BIK%) | 0g/km (2%) |
| BIK 20/40% a month | £8/£17 |
| Luggage capacity | 326 litres |
| Battery size/power | 40kWh/120hp |
| Score | 8/10 |
