As cars continue to grow larger and SUVs dominate our roads, the trend raises an interesting question: is there still room in the market for a compact EV with an excellent range, high-quality trims, and all the essential features? Enter the Renault 5.

Originally designed for fuel efficiency, the modern Renault 5 uses no fuel at all. But how does it compare to other compact EVs like the Mini EV or Fiat 500 Electric? And how does it fare against larger models such as the Kia e-Niro or Hyundai Ioniq 5?

In this review, we’ll explore the Renault 5’s interior, performance, safety features, and more – with a few surprises along the way.

Performance and Range

The Renault 5 comes in three trims: the entry-level Evolution, the mid-range Techno, and the top-spec Iconic Five. The Techno and Iconic Five trims are available with two drivetrain options: the Urban and Comfort range. The Comfort version upgrades the standard 121bhp motor to a more powerful 148bhp and adds a larger battery.

This provides the Comfort spec with an impressive 253 miles of range, making the Renault 5 stand out in the compact EV segment - and hold its own in the wider EV market. The Comfort variant also delivers faster acceleration, though both trims are designed to be user-friendly and forgiving rather than performance-focused.

Trim Differences and Specifications

All three trims come equipped with 18-inch alloys, LED lights, and rear parking sensors, with the base trim offering a 10.1-inch infotainment display. The Techno trim upgrades the infotainment system with a larger screen, keyless entry, a rearview camera, and privacy glass. The top-spec Iconic Five adds premium features such as a heated steering wheel, heated seats, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, exclusive colour options, and extra storage.

Here’s a closer look at the specs, including approximate salary sacrifice costs for basic and higher-rate taxpayers:

Model	90kW Evolution Urban Range 40 kWh	90kW Techno Urban Range 40 kWh	110kW Techno Comfort Range 52 kWh	90kW Iconic Five Urban Range 40 kWh	110kW Iconic Five Comfort Range 52 kWh
Range	193 miles	191 miles	253 miles	190 miles	252 miles
Acceleration (0-62mph)	9.0 secs	9.0 secs	7.9 seconds	9.0 seconds	7.9 seconds
Charging	DC fast charging up to 80 kW 15-80% charge in 31 minutes	DC fast charging up to 80 kW 15-80% charge in 31 minutes	DC fast charging up to 100 kW 15-80% charge in 30 minutes	DC fast charging up to 80 kW 15-80% charge in 31 minutes	DC fast charging up to 100 kW 15-80% charge in 30 minutes
Approx. Lease Cost On £40,000 Salary	£340	£367	£387	£400	£420
Approx. Lease Cost On £60,000 Salary	£292	£315	£333	£343	£361

Exterior and Interior Design

Exterior

The Renault 5 draws inspiration from its classic predecessor but with a modern twist. Its design features bold 18-inch wheels, square daytime running lights, and a compact body with great attention to detail. A particularly interesting design feature is the black A- and B-pillars that blend into the roof, creating a stylish contrast between the body and cabin for a sporty, refined appearance.

While it may not boast the same retro feel as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 or Honda-e, the Renault 5 excels in customisation options. It offers five colour choices, plus the option to add roof and body decals, allowing you to personalise the car to suit your style. Mind you - you will need to go for the top-tier trim level to access all customisation options - although the base model still offers a wide variety.

Interior

Inside, the Renault 5 offers a modern and well-thought-out cabin, particularly for its price point. The higher-spec trims come with a 10.3-inch digital display for the speedometer and driving information - and a 10.1-inch touchscreen for infotainment, offering a user-friendly operating system that outperforms the Mini Electric and Fiat 500 Electric.

The car also includes physical controls for air conditioning, avoiding the frustration of navigating submenus on a touchscreen - a welcome addition. In higher-level trims, the seats feature a denim-like material in vibrant colours to match the exterior options, and the overall interior feels sturdy and well-constructed. While you’ll find some hard plastics around the dashboard, the build quality is impressive for the price.

Space

The new Renault 5 is larger than its original predecessor but remains a compact car, shorter than the Peugeot e-208. Despite its compact size, the interior feels surprisingly spacious. Taller adults will be comfortable in the front seats, which slide back to provide extra legroom. The rear seats are more cramped, as expected, but children and shorter adults will have no issue. Plus, the rear doors make access easier.

Boot space in the Renault 5 is 277 litres, larger than the Mini Electric’s 210 litres. The rear seats can be folded down, expanding the boot to 326 litres, with additional storage under the boot floor, ideal for storing charging cables.

A Game-changer in Affordability

With a starting price of £22,995, the Renault 5 offers excellent value for money, combining practicality, performance, and quality features. It’s a great option for those looking to make the switch to electric without the need for a larger SUV or estate car. The Renault 5 is also an attractive choice for those considering a salary sacrifice scheme, potentially saving significantly on monthly payments while enjoying the benefits of a brand-new EV.

In addition to saving on tax, the ongoing fuel and maintenance costs are considerably lower with an electric vehicle. If you lease the Renault 5 through a salary sacrifice scheme like The Electric Car Scheme, you can benefit from substantial savings over a traditional lease. The scheme also includes maintenance, breakdown cover, and tyres as standard, with the option to bundle in a charger and comprehensive insurance.

Safety and Driver Assistance

All Renault 5 trims come with essential safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and driver attention monitoring. The Iconic Five trim adds blind spot monitoring. All trims are awarded a four-star Euro NCAP safety rating, which is respectable for a car of this size.

The Renault 5 comes with a three-year or 60,000-mile warranty, as well as an 8-year battery warranty. If you lease through The Electric Car Scheme, you’ll be covered regardless.

Ready to Drive the Renault 5?

The Renault 5 stands out in the compact EV market for offering a solid range of 253 miles and decent interior space, outperforming the Mini Electric and Fiat 500 Electric in both aspects.

It may not have the same level of performance or space as larger models like the Kia e-Niro and Hyundai Ioniq 5, but it holds its own in the compact EV category by offering a balanced package of affordability, efficiency, and practicality.

The Renault 5 is ideal for those who want a compact EV that still offers good range and features, but don’t need the extra space or power that larger models provide.

You can lease the Renault 5 through a salary sacrifice scheme, like The Electric Car Scheme. Browse our quote tool, where you can input your salary and desired lease terms to get a personalised quote on the Renault 5 - and other electric vehicles!

Get a quote for a renault 5

Last updated: 20.02.24

Our pricing is based on data collected from The Electric Car Scheme quote tool. All final pricing is inclusive of VAT. All prices above are based on the following lease terms; 10,000 miles pa, 36 months, and are inclusive of Maintenance and Breakdown Cover. The Electric Car Scheme’s terms and conditions apply. All deals are subject to credit approval and availability. All deals are subject to excess mileage and damage charges. Prices are calculated based on the following tax saving assumptions; England & Wales, 40% tax rate. The above prices were calculated using a flat payment profile. The Electric Car Scheme Limited provides services for the administration of your salary sacrifice employee benefits. The Electric Car Scheme Holdings Limited is a member of the BVRLA (10608), is authorised and regulated by the FCA under FRN 968270, is an Appointed Representative of Marshall Management Services Ltd under FRN 667174, and is a credit broker and not a lender or insurance provider.