The Renault 5 might catch your eye with its stylish looks and vibrant colors, making you think it’s all about aesthetics over substance. But you’d be mistaken. In a crowded market of electric vehicles, the Renault 5 doesn’t just compete; it genuinely sets a new benchmark and beats many electric cars in key areas. In fact, we’re so impressed that we’ve named the Renault 5 our Car of the Year for 2025, highlighting its superior qualities.
Let’s dive into what makes the Renault 5 a top contender and how it beats the electric car competition. Range anxiety is a common concern for EV buyers, but the Renault 5 addresses this head-on. Even the base models offer a commendable range of up to 193 miles on a single charge. For those needing more, opting for the 52kWh battery boosts this figure to an impressive 253 miles. This extended range is more than sufficient for daily commutes and longer trips, especially if you have the convenience of home charging. Charging time is also competitive; topping up the battery from 10% to 80% takes about the same time as rivals like the Citroën ë-C3, Mini Cooper SE, and Peugeot e-208, ensuring you’re not spending excessive time waiting for a charge.
Stepping inside, the Renault 5 continues to impress. The interior is both comfortable and practical, featuring an excellent Google-based infotainment system that is user-friendly and intuitive. Unlike some EVs that rely solely on touchscreens or voice controls, the Renault 5 smartly includes physical climate controls. This thoughtful design makes adjusting temperature and fan speed much easier and safer while driving. While rear passenger space might be a bit tight for taller adults on longer journeys, the boot capacity is a definite win, offering more space than the Fiat 500 or Mini, making it a more practical choice overall.
Price is another area where the Renault 5 beats many electric cars. Even the highest-spec Renault 5 models are priced under £30,000. This is significantly more affordable than competitors like the Mini Cooper SE, undercutting it by more than £1000 for the base model alone. This price point makes the Renault 5 an exceptionally accessible and attractive option in the electric car market.
“Unlike some rivals, there’s no mechanical connection between the 5’s brake pedal and the brakes themselves. I was nervous about this, but I needn’t have been – the system makes it easier to slow down smoothly than in rival electric cars” – Dan Jones, Reviewer
In conclusion, the Renault 5 is not just another stylish electric car; it’s a genuinely outstanding vehicle that beats many electric car rivals in terms of range, practicality, user-friendly technology, and affordability. It’s a well-rounded package that truly deserves its Car of the Year award and stands out as a leader in the EV segment. For those looking to switch to electric without compromise, the Renault 5 is a compelling choice.
