New Renault 5: Everything you need to become an icon

Renault is reviving the iconic R5 in a 100% electric version that combines nostalgia and modernity. A successful gamble for a model that aspires to become an icon once again.

Four years after it was first unveiled and three years in development, Renault is finally presenting the new R5. Designed by Luca De Meo himself, this car is a clever blend of the classics that have made the Renault name famous and modern standards. The references to the past are subtly reflected in details such as the design of the headlights and the quilted roof, reminiscent of the original 1972 version. With its bright colours (notably yellow and green, which come as standard) and attractive styling, the R5 is clearly designed for the city.

Inside, it offers a host of driving aids. It has a 10-inch screen, which is more than adequate for city driving. The steering wheel, while functional, would have benefited from a more polished design. The bucket seats offer good comfort, and the cabin is well laid out despite its compact dimensions. However, rear passengers are likely to feel cramped if they are tall. The boot, with a capacity of 326 litres (1,106 litres with the bench seat folded down), is a pleasant surprise, offering ample space, thanks in particular to a dedicated hatch for storing charging cables.

A high-performance rear end

On the road, the R5 shines for its dynamic handling. Equipped with the same front axle as the Captur and Clio models, and a multi-link rear axle usually reserved for larger vehicles, it offers a precise and comfortable ride. In Eco mode, it is a little less responsive, but things improve markedly in Comfort and Sport modes. The gear ratio is fairly short (13.7), which enables it to compete with sportier models. The R5 is fun to drive, in keeping with its dynamic looks. Its turning circle of 10.3 metres makes it easy to manoeuvre around town. All versions of the R5 come with 18-inch wheels as standard.

Under the bonnet

Under the bonnet, the 150 bhp (110 kW) electric motor with 245 Nm of torque accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to 150 km/h (115 km/h in Eco mode). Renault will also be offering two other versions: 90 kW (120 bhp / 225 Nm) and 70 kW (95 bhp / 215 Nm) with a 40 kWh battery. The range claimed for the large 52 kWh battery is 410 km (WLTP), which is still impressive even taking into account a 30% reduction in fuel consumption. The smaller 40 kWh battery, available at the end of 2024, is expected to provide a range of around 310 km (WLTP).

Weak points

However, there are still a few weak points. Braking is considered to be a little light, and the absence of a ‘one-pedal’ function to manage regeneration under braking is regrettable. The R5 has a B mode, but it would have been interesting to have a more accomplished mode. Another regret is the absence of a panoramic roof, even as an option, although this may come in future versions of the model.

Charging and technology

In terms of recharging, the R5 is equipped with an 11 kW two-way AC charger and V2L technology, which enables electrical appliances of up to 3,700 W to be connected via a 220 V adapter. Using an 11 kW charger, the 52 kWh battery can be recharged from 15% to 80% in 3 hours13. On a fast charge (up to 100 kW), it reaches 80% in 30 minutes. The V2G function can also be used to feed energy back into an electricity grid, for example for a home.

A reduced carbon footprint

Renault has also made efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of the new R5, which is 88.6% recyclable. The vehicle incorporates 19.4% recycled materials and 26.4% materials from the circular economy. The engine, which is more compact than that of the Mégane and Scenic, uses no permanent magnets or rare earths. The R5 is produced and assembled in France.

Prices

Renault is making gradual progress in marketing the R5. This year, only the Techno and Iconic Cinq versions with a 52 kWh battery are priced at €31,812.40 and €33,746.28 inc VAT. Versions with a 40 kWh battery will not be available until 2025, as will the Evolution and Five versions, the latter priced at €24,000.

Our verdict

The new Renault R5 successfully blends retro design and modern technology, offering an interesting alternative in the electric city car segment, particularly in terms of range and on-road dynamism.

Plus points :

• Multi-link rear axle
• Attractive design
• Good range

Minuses

• No panoramic roof
• Little space at the rear
• Light braking

Renault has just launched its new R5. How do you feel about the launch?

Martin Domise : It’s a truly unique moment. In a motoring career, you rarely get the chance to take part in such a momentous launch. The R5 has been eagerly awaited, not only by enthusiasts, but also by people who are less familiar with cars. A lot of people have fallen in love with it. And it’s this kind of emotion that makes our job so exciting.

What is the potential of the new R5, particularly in the fleet market?

M.D. : The potential is enormous, especially in the B segment, where we have always been very strong. It’s the least electrified segment at the moment, but the new R5 could well change that. We believe that this model is the right weapon to shift this market towards electric vehicles, particularly in the fleet sector, where the bonus schemes are very attractive and encourage more and more people to opt for an electric fleet.

What about private customers?

M.D. : This is another segment in which we are traditionally strong. With the new R5, we’re also targeting a wider market, because the car has obvious appeal for private customers. We saw how people reacted during the first test drives, and they were immediately won over. It’s a vehicle that arouses enthusiasm. What’s more, with the incentive bonus schemes, particularly in Flanders and Luxembourg, it’s even more attractive.

You talk about a car with a very attractive design and a compendium of technology. Can you tell us more about it?

M.D. : Absolutely. The R5 combines a retro design, reminiscent of the icon of the 70s, with a certain modernity. It’s beautiful and a real eye-catcher. During our press tests, we noticed that people stopped to look at it, take photos and even compliment the drivers. That’s not something that happens very often, and it’s an excellent indicator of the car’s potential. The strength of the new R5 is that it has been designed from the outset as an electric vehicle. This enables it to offer exceptional driving pleasure and remarkable technological performance. It’s this combination of retro design and electric motor that sets the car apart. It ticks all the boxes when it comes to driving pleasure, interior space and technology.

What is Renault’s sales volume target?

M.D. : We’ll be able to take stock in a year’s time. The new R5 has the potential to become a turning point for many customers who are still hesitating to switch to electric vehicles. We believe it has everything it takes to succeed, not least because of its many qualities, but also because of the strong demand for this type of vehicle. This launch marks a key moment for Renault and for our market.