Renault 4 E-Tech: A Promising Electric Crossover with Retro Charm
The automotive landscape is welcoming a compelling new entrant, the Renault 4 E-Tech, an electric crossover that skillfully blends nostalgic design cues with contemporary practicality. Positioned as the latest chapter in Renault's electric vehicle renaissance, this model follows in the successful tire tracks of the popular Renault 5. Its design masterfully updates classic aesthetics without succumbing to excessive kitsch, resulting in a vehicle that is both familiar and fresh. Beyond its striking appearance, the Renault 4 E-Tech delivers a comfortable and spacious interior, competitive performance figures, and a range that proves highly suitable for daily commutes and extended journeys. This offering from Renault presents a package that is not only visually appealing but also economically sound, making it a strong contender in the burgeoning electric vehicle segment and challenging established rivals.
The Renault 4 E-Tech arrives as a pivotal part of Renault's strategy to revitalize its iconic names for the electric era, building upon the critical and commercial acclaim of the Renault 5. This new crossover manages to imbue a sense of charm that sets it apart from many of its segment peers, such as the Ford Puma Gen-E and BYD Dolphin, while surpassing the retro interpretations seen in models like the Fiat 600e and Mini Aceman. Its visual identity, characterized by a more subdued color palette and restrained front fascia, offers a sophisticated take on retro-futurism.
Internally, the Renault 4 E-Tech shares its architectural foundation with the Renault 5, benefiting from the same comfortable, supportive front seats and tactile physical controls for climate management. The cabin boasts a thoughtful selection of materials, exhibiting a quality that generally exceeds expectations for its class. An exciting future enhancement includes an optional roll-back fabric roof, adding to its appeal. Standard equipment across all trims is generous, with even the base Evolution model including cruise control and phone mirroring. Higher trims, starting with the Techno, integrate Google's advanced software for infotainment and navigation.
Despite its numerical designation suggesting otherwise, the Renault 4 is the more spacious and family-oriented vehicle compared to the Renault 5. Its bespoke flat-floored EV platform contributes to excellent headroom and adequate rear legroom, ensuring passenger comfort. The boot capacity of 420 liters is quite impressive for its class, notably surpassing many competitors, with the exception of the Ford Puma, which benefits from its unique 'GigaBox' underfloor storage solution. While the interior largely impresses, some minor ergonomic peculiarities exist, such as shallow door bins that may not secure larger items effectively. Additionally, Renault's column-mounted automatic gear selector and the audio control stalk behind the steering wheel require a period of adjustment for new users. However, these are minor criticisms in an otherwise well-conceived and pleasant cabin.
Performance-wise, the UK market receives the higher-powered variant of the Renault 4 E-Tech, equipped with a 148bhp motor and 181lb ft of torque, driving the front wheels. This setup allows for an 8.2-second sprint from 0 to 62mph and a top speed of 93mph, figures that are more than sufficient for typical driving conditions. The vehicle's 52kWh usable battery capacity provides a quoted maximum range of 247 miles, with real-world testing indicating around 215 miles on a full charge in warm conditions, translating to an efficient 4.1m/kWh. Charging is efficient, with a rapid charger achieving 10 to 80 percent charge in approximately 30 minutes, and a 22kW kerbside unit reaching full charge from 60 percent in about 90 minutes. This range aligns well with segment averages, catering effectively to most journeys.
The Renault 4 E-Tech truly excels in urban environments, where its inherent electric vehicle responsiveness and smooth operation are complemented by an effective one-pedal driving mode that can bring the vehicle to a complete stop. Its ride quality is quintessentially French—soft and compliant, yet maintaining composure without excessive body roll. Outside of the city, the vehicle maintains its composure and comfort on dual carriageways, offering precise steering and ample power. While it may not possess the agility of its smaller sibling, the Renault 5, its handling remains predictable and composed across various road surfaces. The observed body roll when pushed vigorously is a minor characteristic, aligning with its design as a practical crossover rather than a performance-focused hot hatch, and arguably, is true to the spirit of the original model.
One of the Renault 4 E-Tech's most compelling attributes is its outstanding value proposition. Starting at £26,995, it significantly undercuts direct competitors such as the Ford Puma, Fiat 600e, Mini Aceman, and BYD Dolphin. While the Citroen e-C3 Aircross offers competitive pricing and interior space, it falls short on both range and performance when compared to the Renault 4. Crucially, none of its rivals can match the sheer likeability and character of the Renault 4. The recent eligibility for an additional £1500 off through the UK's new EV grant further enhances its already attractive pricing, solidifying its position as a highly competitive and desirable electric crossover. Renault's strategic approach with the 4 E-Tech demonstrates a keen understanding of the market, effectively combining retro appeal with modern EV technology and exceptional affordability, positioning itself ahead of many rivals.