The Renault 5 is back – and it’s not just here to cash in on nostalgia. This reinvented icon has been reborn as a bold, all-electric supermini, and after getting behind the wheel, we can safely say it’s one of the most exciting new cars of 2025.
Thanks to the team at FleetEV, we had the chance to be among the first in the UK to drive the new Renault 5 ahead of its full launch. And from the moment we pulled away, it was clear this isn’t just a fun design exercise – it’s a seriously compelling EV in its own right.
Style Meets Substance
At first glance, the Renault 5 is a charming nod to the past – with design cues inspired by the original 1970s model, right down to its boxy silhouette and playful LED ‘eyebrow’ daytime running lights. But look a little closer, and you’ll spot a car that’s thoroughly modern under the skin.
Built on Renault’s new AmpR Small platform (shared with the upcoming Alpine A290), the 5 offers instant electric torque, agile handling and a comfortable, low-set ride. It’s properly fun to drive – especially around tight urban roads – but it also feels confident and composed at higher speeds.
Practical EV Power for Real Life
Launching with a 52kWh battery and up to 250 miles of range, the Renault 5 is clearly designed with everyday usability in mind. A more affordable 40kWh version will follow, making it an accessible EV for a broader audience. Rapid charging up to 100kW ensures it won’t hold you back on longer trips either.
Inside, it’s a smart mix of high-tech and character. The twin-screen layout brings it in line with rivals, while soft-touch materials and quirky design details – including Renault’s new animated virtual assistant, Reno – make it feel more personable than most small EVs.
Could the Renault 5 Be a Welsh Favourite?
With its compact footprint, great range and charming looks, the new Renault 5 seems perfectly suited to life in Welsh cities and towns. Whether you’re navigating the streets of Cardiff or zipping around the Valleys, it’s a car that promises to fit right in.
We’ve put the Renault 5 through its paces, and there’s a lot to love – especially for those who want something fun, functional, and future-proof.
For the full in-depth review, including more photos and detailed impressions from our drive, visit cornered.co.uk.
