“Is that the new Renault 5? Can I take a photograph?”
It’s just one of three interjections from members of the public in a mere half-hour charging stop during our time with this most eye-catching newcomer.
If you want proof that good design matters, then this is surely it.
Retro relaunches of iconic automotive models are nothing new – Volkswagen’s ‘New Beetle’ is now 27 years old, after all.
But Renault has done more than release the new 5 with design cues harking back to its pioneering classic supermini.
Renault has created a car we’ll almost certainly recall in 20 years as Europe’s first credible, affordable, desirable EV.
The new Renault 5 is colourful inside, too
Starting at £22,995, it’s markedly cheaper than its Renault Zoe predecessor and only slightly more than a Clio, although we drove the extended-range model that costs from £28,995.
The only retro French car before the 5 was the 2017 Alpine A110.
In many ways the idea is anathema to high-minded Gallic design, but perhaps that is why the model so successfully walks the line between ancient and modern.
The Renault 5 is at its best inside.
The seats are some of the coolest you will find in any new car, irrespective of price.
They show inspiration from the original 5 Turbo and are partially body-coloured, which, if you make the correct choice of ‘yellow pop!’ or ‘green pop!’, makes a refreshing change from the typical modern black or beige.
The Renault 5 has plenty of retro details, like these snazzy graphics
There’s colourful stitching on the dash, too, while the quilt-effect headlining makes an ordinarily boring item interesting.
Thrilling design and keen pricing would be enough to make the Renault 5 remarkable, but it also helps that it’s a much better steer than anything else in its class.
Though not roly-poly soft like the original, the ride is extremely comfortable, albeit with a slight pitch back and forth on certain surfaces due to the short wheelbase.
The steering is tight, quick and, though not overflowing with feel, confidence-inspiring.
Once knocked out of ‘Eco’ mode, acceleration is more than brisk enough, too.
The new Renault 5’s seats were influenced by the ones in the original 5 Turbo
It does level off considerably at higher speeds, but the torque response is always fun, and 7.9 secs from a standstill to 60mph is more than enough for an entry-level supermini (even if some pricier rivals are quicker).
Alpine’s new A290 offers a hot version of the car for those looking for something sportier, but this model lacks some of the Renault 5’s visual charm – both inside and out.
Some niggles must be acknowledged.
The infotainment system seems to be lacking in optimisation, while a lack of ‘creep’ in Drive and a big dead zone on the throttle pedal might make it a bit of a menace for inner-city parking.
Like the original Renault 5, the new one will surely be remembered as a game-changer
History won’t remember those things, but, like the original 5, this will be recorded as one of La Régie’s paradigm-shifting designs.
Those ready to make the switch to electric but struggling to find the passion might just have to reconsider: Renault has built one of the first truly cool EVs.
Images: John Bradshaw
Factfile
- Engine single electric motor, 52kWh lithium-ion battery; 148bhp; 180lb ft
- Transmission single-speed auto, FWD
- 0-62mph 7.9 secs
- Top speed 93mph
- Range 251 miles (WLTP)
- Price £30,195 (as tested)
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