While the Renault 5 might catch your eye with its striking design and vibrant color choices, don’t mistake it for being all style and no substance. In a competitive landscape of electric vehicles, the Renault 5 truly stands out as a top performer, earning the prestigious title of our Car of the Year for 2025, making it one of the Best Rated Electric Cars available.
One of the most crucial aspects of any electric car is its range, and the Renault 5 excels here. Even the base models offer a commendable range of up to 193 miles on a single charge. However, for those seeking even greater distances, the recommended 52kWh battery option significantly boosts this to an impressive 253 miles. This range is more than sufficient for the majority of drivers, particularly when considering the convenience of home charging. When it comes to charging times, the Renault 5 aligns with rivals such as the Citroën ë-C3, Mini Cooper SE, and Peugeot e-208, ensuring you’re not waiting longer to get back on the road.
Stepping inside, the Renault 5 presents a comfortable and functional interior, highlighted by an excellent Google-powered infotainment system that is intuitive and user-friendly. Importantly, it retains physical climate controls, a feature often preferred for ease of use while driving compared to the screen-only or voice-activated systems found in some competing electric cars. While taller passengers might find the rear seats a bit snug for extended trips, the Renault 5 compensates with a boot that offers more space than the Fiat 500 or Mini, adding to its practicality as one of the best rated electric cars.
Price is another key factor where the Renault 5 shines. Even the highest-spec version remains under £30,000, making it more affordable than even the entry-level Mini Cooper SE, by over £1000. This combination of features and value firmly places the Renault 5 among the best rated electric cars in the market.
As noted by reviewer Dan Jones, “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 – teh system makes it easier to slow down smoothly than in rival electric cars”. This highlights the sophisticated engineering and driver-focused design that contribute to the Renault 5’s position as a leading electric vehicle.
Read our in-depth Renault 5 review
