Category: Renault

Renault 5 E-Tech: The Electric Pop Icon Reimagined

The Renault 5 E-Tech represents Renault’s bold revival of its classic supermini in a fully electric form. With retro-inspired design, modern EV underpinnings, and a clever mix of performance and practicality, it’s positioned to be a standout in the B-segment EV market.

In this blog, we’ll explore the following: design & heritage, platform and powertrains, performance, interior and usability, charging & range, safety & tech, pricing, real-world impressions, comparison to rivals, pros & cons, and who should buy it.

1. A Design Tribute to a Legend

Renault brings back the spirit of the original Renault 5, a small car that became a cultural icon in Europe, but with a modern electric twist:

The 5 E-Tech’s styling feels retro-futuristic: clean lines, compact proportions, and a refined, friendly face.
The wheels are pushed to the corners, giving it a sporty and energetic stance.
Hidden rear door handles (in the C-pillars) preserve the classic two-door coupe look while giving it modern practicality.
The AmpR Small platform allows a low center of gravity, which helps handling and driving feel.
Inside, Renault uses “H-shaped” seats inspired by the original R5 Turbo, offering style with support.
The infotainment system is OpenR Link, built on Google’s OS, with EV-specific features like route planning and charging management.

The overall vibe is a loving modern reinterpretation: retro enough to be nostalgic, but clearly

2. Platform & Powertrains

A key part of the 5 E-Tech is its AmpR Small dedicated EV platform, engineered for efficiency, light weight, and minimal use of rare-earth materials.

Renault offers two main battery options and motor power levels to cater to different needs:

Configuration	Battery	Power / Motor	Range (WLTP)	Charging
Urban / Entry	40 kWh	~70 kW / 95 hp, or ~90 kW / 120 hp Motor1.com+2Nyongesa Sande+2	Up to ~300 km (per Renault IE)	11 kW AC, DC charging (~80 kW for 40 kWh model) ev-database.
Comfort / Long	52 kWh	~110 kW / 150 hp	Up to ~410 km WLTP (Renault IE spec)	11 kW AC; up to ~100 kW DC (for fast charging)

Some additional notes on the powertrain:

The motor is a rare-earth-free externally excited synchronous motor (EESM), contributing to better sustainability.
Regenerative braking is supported, helping recover energy during deceleration.
Battery safety is a priority: systems like “Fireman Access” (to make intervention safe in case of emergencies) and an SD Switch to disconnect high voltage for first responders are included.
Battery warranty is generous: Renault offers 8 years or 100,000 miles (or equivalent) on the battery.

3. Performance & Driving Dynamics

How does the Renault 5 E-Tech feel on the road? Here’s what to expect:

The 150 hp / 52 kWh version is the most powerful trim, delivering spirited acceleration and good mid-range grunt.
The lower-power 95 hp (70 kW) version is more modest — well-suited for city commuting, especially where high top speed is not critical.
Thanks to the AmpR Small platform, the car benefits from a low center of gravity, which improves stability, handling, and driving feel.
Renault’s multi-link rear axle (unusual in compact EVs) enhances ride comfort and handling precision.
Electric power delivery is instantaneous, with smooth torque from standstill: part of what makes the driving feel so engaging.

Overall, the 5 E-Tech balances performance and usability: it’s nimble and fun in the city, yet capable enough for highway driving in its higher-spec form.

4. Interior Comfort & Practicality

Even though the Renault 5 E-Tech is a compact EV, Renault has packed it with clever design to maximize space, comfort, and functionality:

The wheelbase is fairly long for a small car: 2,540 mm. This gives better space inside.
The interior uses eco-conscious materials and a modern design aesthetic.
Seats with “H-shaped” contours are both retro-inspired and functional, inspired by the Renault 5 Turbo heritage.
Insulation is a priority: Renault describes it as a “cocoon effect,” reducing road noise and vibrations, so the ride feels quiet and refined.
The trunk / boot capacity is decent for a compact EV: reports mention approximately 326 L of boot space.
For daily usability: the small size helps in city driving, parking, and maneuverability.
On the tech side, the OpenR Link infotainment system includes Google-powered navigation and EV-specific route planning (charging stop recommendations, battery temperature management, etc.).
Over-the-air (OTA) updates are supported, primarily for infotainment and connected systems.

5. Range, Charging & Efficiency

One of the most important considerations for any EV — what you gain, and what limitations there are — lies in how far you can go, and how long it takes to recharge.

Range

The 52 kWh version is rated for up to 410 km WLTP (per Renault IE) on a full charge.
The 40 kWh version is more urban-focused, with a WLTP range of up to 300 km (Renault IE spec)
In real-world usage, factors like driving style, weather, load, and speed will affect how close you get to those numbers.

Charging

AC Charging: Both battery versions support 11 kW AC charging.
DC Fast Charging:
- 40 kWh model: up to ~80 kW DC (per EV-Database)
- 52 kWh model: up to ~100 kW DC charging, allowing good speed for long trips.
According to Renault, charging from 15% to 80% can take approximately 30 minutes on the 52 kWh version using a 100 kW DC charger.

Efficiency

EVKX reports energy consumption for the 52 kWh model at around 13.0 kWh/100 km under WLTP conditions.
Lower consumption helps maximize the efficiency benefits of the EV platform and battery design.

6. Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety is another pillar for the Renault 5 E-Tech, blending modern systems with thoughtful EV-specific design:

Renault has included a Fireman Access system, allowing first responders to quickly and safely disconnect the high-voltage battery in emergencies.
The SD Switch further ensures that the battery can be isolated from the high-voltage network for safety.
While detailed crash-test ratings may vary depending on region, the platform and design reflect contemporary safety standards.
On driver-assist tech:
- Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, automated emergency braking, and driver assistance systems are expected (given Renault’s trend in modern EVs).
- The compact size and low center of gravity help with stability and control.

7. Pricing & Trim Options

Though pricing may vary between markets and over time, here’s a high-level view of what to expect based on Renault and media sources:

Renault positioned the 5 E-Tech to be affordable, with a starting price around €25,000 for its base electric versions.
There are several trim levels; for example: Evolution, Techno, and Iconic have been mentioned in various previews and media.
Higher trims (with the 52 kWh battery) will cost more, but the extra range and performance are likely to justify the premium for many buyers.

Incentives (EV subsidies, tax breaks) will also play a major role in the effective cost for buyers in different regions.

8. Real-World Impressions & Reviews

A variety of early reviews and press drives give us a good sense of how the 5 E-Tech delivers in practice:

According to Motor1, the 5 E-Tech feels very agile, thanks to its compact size and well-tuned chassis.
Users on forums note that real-world charging speeds and capabilities may depend a lot on the specific trim / battery: “Which spec of Renault 5 supports V2G … only the smaller, 40 kWh battery size spec supports it … V2G isn’t available on UK R5 models.”
Several owners and potential buyers mention Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, which remains important for usability.
Reviewers also praise its retro charm combined with a surprisingly practical, modern EV experience.

9. How the Renault 5 E-Tech Compares to Rivals

In the B-segment EV space, the 5 E-Tech has several competitors, and here’s how it stacks up:

Competitor	What They Do Well	Renault 5 E-Tech Advantage
Fiat 500 EV	Compact, stylish, city-focused	More range (52 kWh version), more power, retro heritage with deeper legacy
Volkswagen ID.2 / ID.1 (future)	VW’s small EVs, broad reach	Likely lower cost, more “character” styling, Renault’s manufacturing and legacy strength
Dacia Spring (if EV)	Ultra-affordable, simple EV	Better design, more battery options, stronger performance for users willing to pay more

The Renault 5 E-Tech’s mix of design nostalgia, solid range, and modern EV usability makes it a compelling option against more purely functional rivals.

10. Pros & Cons

Pros:

Iconic design: Retro-inspired, yet modern — a true revival of a beloved model.
Battery flexibility: Two battery sizes let buyers choose according to their needs.
Good range: The 52 kWh version offers very competitive WLTP range for a B-segment EV.
Fast DC charging: Up to ~100 kW on the bigger battery means useful charging speed.
Lightweight, efficient platform: AmpR Small platform helps with handling and efficiency.
Modern tech: Google-powered infotainment, EV trip planning, OTA updates.
Safety-forward design: High-voltage battery safety features like Fireman Access.

Cons:

Real-world range variance: As always, WLTP may not reflect all real-world conditions.
High-speed performance: Being a small EV, sustained high-speed driving may drain the battery faster.
Base DC charging limitations: Lower-spec 40 kWh model may have more limited DC charge rates.
Price sensitivity: While affordable, the higher-range version may still stretch the compact EV budget.
Uncertainty on V2G: Some markets / trims may not support bidirectional charging — check local spec.

11. Who Should Buy the Renault 5 E-Tech?

Here’s who the Renault 5 E-Tech is most likely to appeal to:

Urban commuters: If you mostly drive in the city, the 40 kWh version gives a great balance of size, range, and efficiency.
Small families: With four or five seats and a decent boot, it works well as a practical daily EV.
EV newcomers: The 5 E-Tech is ideal for people transitioning to electric for the first time — its design is approachable and its powertrain user-friendly.
Design enthusiasts: Drivers who appreciate the heritage of the original R5 will love the retro styling combined with modern EV tech.
Environmentally conscious buyers: With its compact size, efficient powertrain, and recyclable battery design, it’s suited for those who want sustainability without sacrificing usability.

12. Future Potential & Broader Impact

The Renault 5 E-Tech is not just a standalone model — it’s part of Renault’s broader “Renaulution” strategy, which aims to revive key brand icons in electric form.

Some potential future directions and benefits:

Platform scalability: The AmpR Small architecture may underpin other small EVs in Renault’s lineup, helping drive cost efficiencies.
Circular economy: Renault’s battery design includes a focus on repairability and recycling, which aligns with future sustainability goals.
Broader adoption: As more buyers move to small EVs, the 5 E-Tech could become a volume model, strengthening Renault’s EV footprint in Europe.
Vehicle-to-load or grid (V2L/V2G): While V2G support may depend on region, future updates or trims could expand bi-directional energy use, increasing utility.
Potential commercial or city-use variants: Given its small size and efficiency, a variant for car sharing or urban fleets could emerge.

13. Final Verdict

The Renault 5 E-Tech stands out as one of the most emotionally resonant EVs on the market: it’s a respectful, thoughtful resurrection of a classic, but built for modern needs. Its dual battery options give real flexibility, and its design balances nostalgia with innovation.

If you want a stylish, compact EV with enough range for city driving and occasional longer trips, the 52 kWh version is very compelling.
If you prioritize affordability and daily commuting, the 40 kWh trim could be just right.
If you’re attracted to EVs but worry about range or charging — the 5 E-Tech offers a practical compromise of performance, efficiency, and usability.

In the race for the future of mobility, the 5 E-Tech is one of Renault’s strongest cards: it’s not just an electric car, it’s a symbol — of heritage, change, and optimism.

Call to Action

Want to build your own Renault 5 E-Tech? Visit Renault’s official configurator to explore trims, colors, and options.
Thinking about leasing or buying? Check out local Renault dealers or EV incentives in your region.
If you’re curious about real-world range, ask reviewers or EV owners in forums — their experience can help guide your choice.
For EV-first timers: book a test drive to feel how instant torque and regenerative braking change the driving experience.

January 16, 2025

Reviving a Legend: The Renault 4 E-Tech

The Renault 4 E-Tech isn’t just another electric vehicle — it’s a modern reboot of an iconic classic. With its roots in the “4L” of the 1960s to early 1990s, this electric crossover reimagines the spirit of freedom, versatility and simplicity for the EV age. But don’t let nostalgia fool you: the new 4 E-Tech is also packed with contemporary technology, practical range, and modern design, making it well-suited for urban life and weekend escapes alike.

In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know: its design, powertrain options, performance, interior, safety, charging, pricing, and who it’s for. Let’s dive in.

1. Heritage Meets Future — Design & Inspiration

Renault’s decision to revive the “4” name feels deeply symbolic. The original R4 (or “4L”) was known for being ruggedly simple, utilitarian, and endlessly adaptable. Those same values shine through in the 4 E-Tech.

The exterior design blends retro cues — like the familiar boxy shape — with a futuristic twist. The front grille is a highlight: a one-piece illuminated grille stretches across the front, giving the EV a bold, modern face.
Rounded, three-part tail lights nod to the old R4’s style, but are restyled for a modern EV aesthetic.
The “Plein Sud” canvas sunroof (depending on trim) adds an open-air feel, recalling the simplicity and joy of earlier generations. Renault+2renault.co.uk+2
Despite being a compact EV, the 4 E-Tech’s raised ride height and optional Extended Grip system (for light off-road conditions) give it a more adventurous, crossover feel. Motor1.com+1
Personalization is a big part of its appeal: over 600 exterior combinations are reportedly available. Renault

Overall, it’s a clever mix of heritage design language and modern EV utility — making the 4 E-Tech feel both familiar and forward-looking.

2. Powertrains, Battery Options & Range

One of the 4 E-Tech’s biggest strengths is its flexibility: Renault offers two battery and motor configurations to suit different users.

Here’s a breakdown:

Configuration	Battery	Power & Torque	Range (WLTP)	Charging
Urban Range	~40 kWh	~90 kW (120 PS) / 225 Nm ev.com+1	~300 km WLTP (according to motor-press) ACKO Drive	11 kW AC; up to 80 kW DC (15–80% in ~30 min) Motor1.com+1
Comfort Range	~52 kWh	~110 kW (150 PS) / 245 Nm Motor1.com+1	Up to ~400 km WLTP ACKO Drive	11 kW AC; up to 100 kW DC (15–80% in ~30 min) Motor1.com

Some important notes:

The 52 kWh “Comfort” version delivers a robust 150 hp, giving the 4 E-Tech a punchy but efficient feel. Renault+1
Charging from 15% to 80% state of charge is claimed to take around 30 minutes on DC fast charging for the higher-capacity version. ACKO Drive
Renault claims its powertrain doesn’t rely on rare earth materials, which is a plus for sustainability. renault.co.uk

This dual-configuration setup means buyers can choose whether they prioritize lower cost and city use or going longer on a full charge.

3. Driving Experience & Performance

What’s it like to drive? The new 4 E-Tech delivers a driving experience that’s both practical and engaging.

In its 150 PS form, it accelerates from 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h) in about 8.2 seconds, according to UK fleet data. fleetnews.co.uk
Top speed is electronically limited — reports mention a maximum of about 150 km/h for the higher-powered version. ev.com
The compact AmpR Small platform gives the car a low center of gravity, improving stability and handling. renault.co.uk
An electric “One Pedal” function is available on certain trims: this enhances regenerative braking, letting you slow down strongly just by lifting off the accelerator. Motor1.com
For extra traction, Renault offers an Extended Grip system (optional), with “Snow” and “All-terrain” modes that help in slippery or uneven conditions. Motor1.com

In real-world driving, this all means the 4 E-Tech is nimble for city runs, composed on highways, and flexible enough for light rural or off-road excursions.

4. Interior, Practicality & Comfort

The 4 E-Tech isn’t just about performance. Its design also emphasizes usability and modularity.

Inside, there’s a modern cabin with OpenR Link infotainment, including Google built-in features like Maps and Assistant. Renault
The interior is well-designed for space: with a 2.62 m wheelbase, the 4 accommodates five passengers comfortably. renault.ie
Rear knee room is surprisingly generous: about 16 cm of legroom, giving the back seat real usability. renault.ie
The boot offers 420 L of capacity, and thanks to a low loading sill (~60.7 cm), it’s very easy to load and unload items. renault.ie
For even more utility: the rear bench folds (40/60 split) and the front passenger seat also folds forward, allowing for a load length up to ~2.20 m. renault.ie
Under the boot floor, there’s a small 35-L storage compartment (great for the charging cable or small items). renault.ie
The “Plein Sud” sunroof (depending on trim) opens to give an open-air feel — very in line with the original 4’s character. renault.co.uk
On the customization front: the e-brochure mentions over 600 personalization options, for both exterior and interior. Renault

All in all, the 4 E-Tech is more than just a city EV — it’s a versatile, multi-use vehicle that holds true to the original Renault 4’s utilitarian spirit.

5. Tech, Connectivity & Safety

Renault has outfitted the 4 E-Tech with modern tech for comfort, connectivity, and safety.

Connectivity & Infotainment:

The OpenR Link system (touchscreen) includes Google built-in (Maps, Assistant, etc.) for seamless navigation and voice commands. Renault
The digital instrument cluster provides relevant EV info (range, energy flow, regen modes).

Driver Assistance & Safety:

The 4 E-Tech comes with a Level 2 ADAS system including 26 driver-assist functions, according to Renault. ACKO Drive
It includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and more.
There is also a hands-free tailgate on some trims, adding to practicality. Electra
The vehicle is built with a strong focus on sustainability: more than 88% of components are recyclable, according to Renault’s own materials. Renault

This combination of modern safety, connectivity, and eco-conscious design makes the 4 E-Tech appealing not just for style lovers but also for pragmatic buyers.

6. Charging, Efficiency & Practical Range

Charging and energy consumption are key for any EV, and the 4 E-Tech addresses both well.

Charging Strategy:

AC Charging: All versions support 11 kW AC charging — making overnight charging easy for home use. Motor1.com+1
DC Fast Charging:
- For the 40 kWh version, DC charging is up to ~80 kW. Motor1.com
- For the 52 kWh version, DC charging can go up to ~100 kW, allowing a 15–80% charge in about 30 minutes (according to Renault / media). ACKO Drive

Efficiency:

According to Renault, the energy consumption is around 148 Wh / km on the WLTP cycle. renault.it
In real-world usage, that means good efficiency for both city and mixed driving, depending on your driving style, temperature, and route.

Range Realism:

The 40 kWh “Urban” model: around 300 km WLTP, ideal for urban commuting or daily errands. ACKO Drive
The 52 kWh “Comfort” model: up to 400 km WLTP, positioning it well for longer trips or weekend getaways. Electra+1
Renault claims that the 52 kWh version can go from 15% to 80% in 30 min on a DC fast charger. renault.co.uk

These features make the car flexible — you can rely on it for city runs, but also feel confident about longer drives with the Comfort version.

7. Trim Levels & Pricing

Renault offers multiple trims for the 4 E-Tech to cater to different buyer needs. While prices vary by market, here’s a general breakdown based on available data:

The Evolution (120 hp / 40kWh) is the base urban-range model. According to Go-Electra, it starts around €29,990 for some markets. Electra
The Evolution (150 hp / 52kWh) version is more powerful and has greater range; about €33,490 per Go-Electra. Electra
The Techno trim (52kWh) reportedly adds 18-inch diamond-cut wheels and a Harman Kardon audio system. Electra
The Iconic trim (higher-end) includes heated seats, hands-free electric tailgate, and a V2L adapter (vehicle-to-load). Electra
In Italy, Renault (with incentives) lists a much lower promotional price: as low as €15,950 for certain configurations with qualifying incentives. renault.it

These trim options mean buyers can pick according to their needs: city commuting, high-end comfort, or even utility (with V2L).

8. Real-World Experience & Reviews

A few early impressions and press commentary provide useful insight into how the 4 E-Tech is being received:

TechRadar drove the EV and noted it’s “just as fun as the R5 … but with added practicality.” TechRadar
Reviewers highlight the clever combination of retro style and modern usability: “funky family crossover … a capital B bargain” is how one review put it. The Sun
The modular interior, low-loading boot, and light off-road capability (with Extended Grip) make the 4 E-Tech not just a city car but something more versatile.

That said, some skepticism remains: buyers will want to verify the real-world range, especially in more challenging conditions (cold weather, highways) — but early signs are promising.

9. Strengths & Challenges (Pros & Cons)

Pros

Iconic design: Pays tribute to the classic Renault 4 while offering modern stylings.
Two battery options: Flexibility between urban-focused and longer-range versions.
Strong efficiency: Good energy consumption, especially for a B-segment EV.
Practical interior: Good cargo space, intelligent folding seats, low loading sill.
Modern tech: OpenR Link with Google, ADAS, V2L (on some trims).
Customization: Many color and trim combinations.
Sustainability: High recyclability (88%+ components) and no rare-earth in motor.

Cons

WLTP vs real-world range: As always, actual range may differ from claimed figures depending on conditions.
Charge speed dependency: DC fast charging is decent but may not match high-end EVs with ultra-fast chargers.
Price variability: Incentives strongly influence cost; some markets may have less favorable deals.
One-pedal driving learning curve: For new EV drivers, mastering regenerative braking modes takes time.

10. Who Is the Renault 4 E-Tech For?

The 4 E-Tech is not a niche nostalgia play — it’s a practical, modern EV for a wide audience:

City dwellers who want a compact, maneuverable EV but also need enough interior volume and practicality.
Young families looking for a stylish but functional electric crossover.
Weekend adventurers who appreciate the versatility of a bit more ground clearance and load flexibility.
Eco-conscious drivers who want a car with a strong sustainability proposition (recyclability, efficient powertrain).
Retro-design lovers who want a car with character, but don’t want to compromise on modern EV technology.

11. The Future & Long-Term Potential

As Renault builds out its electric lineup (with models like the Renault 5 E-Tech, for instance), the 4 E-Tech looks set to be a key piece of that ecosystem. It’s built on the AmpR Small platform, which Renault says helps reduce costs by sharing components with its other EVs. renault.it+1

There’s also talk of a panel-van variant of the 4 E-Tech — a modern analogue to the old “4 Fourgonnette” (van) versions. This could broaden its appeal, especially for small businesses or last-mile delivery in cities.

Additionally, with V2L (vehicle-to-load) support on some trims, the 4 E-Tech might become a useful companion for outdoor activities, camping, or even mobile power needs, making it more than just a daily commuter.

12. Conclusion: Is the Renault 4 E-Tech Worth It?

The Renault 4 E-Tech strikes a compelling balance between heritage and innovation. It revives a beloved nameplate in a way that feels true to its roots — but without sacrificing the tech, range, and usability that modern EV buyers demand.

For someone prioritizing style and character, the 4 E-Tech offers a rare blend of retro design and eco-conscious engineering.
For those focused on practical daily usage, its two battery options give meaningful flexibility.
For family buyers, the modular seating and generous boot space make it a realistic contender.
For adventurers, its optional Extended Grip and V2L features add dimensions beyond typical city EVs.

If you’re in the market for a compact EV that’s fun, functional, and full of personality — the 4 E-Tech should be on your shortlist. As with all EVs, a test drive is essential, and you’ll want to verify local pricing (including incentives), real-world range, and the cost of fast charging in your area.

Additional Tips for Potential Buyers

Test drive both battery versions: The driving feel between the 40 kWh and 52 kWh models will differ; try both to decide if you need the extra range.
Check charging infrastructure: Look into public DC fast-charging networks around you — that will determine how useful fast charging is for your use.
Explore customization: With 600+ combinations, you can tailor the car’s color, roof, interior trims, and more — make your 4 E-Tech uniquely yours.
Understand incentives: Local EV incentives or government subsidies can dramatically change the effective purchase cost.
Use the V2L feature: If your trim supports it, explore how to use the vehicle-to-load function for camping, work, or emergencies.

July 3, 2024

Renault Scenic E-Tech: the new electric family car

The Renault Scenic E-Tech marks a bold reinvention of a nameplate that once defined the family MPV. Today it’s an elegant, highly efficient electric crossover that blends long range, roomy practicality and smart tech — without the bulk of a full-size SUV. Whether you’re researching an EV for family life, commuting or longer trips, the Scenic E-Tech deserves attention. In this long-form guide I’ll walk you through what it is, the trim and battery choices, real-world performance, interior comfort, charging and tech, safety, pricing and who it’s best suited for — plus a tidy spec table you can skim. (SEO note: this post uses clear subheads, user-friendly bullets and a specs table to make it easy to scan and share.)

Quick summary (TL;DR)

The Scenic E-Tech is Renault’s mid-size electric crossover built on the Renault–Nissan CMF-EV / AmpR platform and positioned as a roomy, efficient family EV.
It’s offered with two main battery / power options: a 60 kWh (approx.) pack with ~430–420 km WLTP range and a 87 kWh long-range pack delivering up to ~600+ km WLTP, depending on trim. Power outputs are roughly 125 kW (170 hp) for the standard pack and 160 kW (220 hp) for the long-range variant.
Practical interior, big boot (flexible load space up to around 1,400–1,670 L with seats folded), modern OpenR Link infotainment with Google built-in, and advanced ADAS make it family-friendly. renault.co.uk+1

Design & exterior — modern, tidy, functional

Renault gave the Scenic a directional redesign that sits between an SUV and a crossover hatchback. The silhouette is compact (around 4.47 m length), but the body is sculpted with a broad shoulder line, slim LED lights and an upscale front grille treatment that houses the new Renault badge. The overall look is contemporary without being overly aggressive — designed to appeal to buyers who want presence without the height and bulk of large SUVs. Many reviewers praise the design for feeling premium at the price point.

Practical touches include an available SolarBay panoramic roof (adds light and a premium feel) and aerodynamic wheels tuned for efficiency. The charging port location and bumper design are typical for modern EVs: neat, purposeful and easy to use.

Powertrains, battery choices & claimed range

One of the Scenic’s headline features is its range: Renault offers two main powertrain choices to suit different buyers.

Standard (EV60) — ~60 kWh usable battery: produces roughly 125 kW (170 hp) and ~280 Nm torque. WLTP range figures are in the ~420–430 km ballpark depending on configuration. This version is aimed at buyers prioritising value and typical daily driving with occasional long trips.
Long-range (EV87) — 87 kWh usable battery: produces roughly 160 kW (220 hp) and ~300 Nm torque with WLTP ranges quoted up to ~600+ km (around 625 km WLTP in some configurations) — a standout figure for a mid-size EV and a major selling point. Real-world range tends to be lower depending on speed, weather and load; independent testers report around 450–480 km real-world for the 87 kWh in mixed driving.

Rapid charging capability is competitive: the Scenic accepts DC fast charging (up to around 150 kW on the EV87 in many markets), which helps reduce downtime on long trips. AC on-board charging support varies by market and trim (Renault advertises up to 11 kW / some materials reference 22 kW AC capability).

Performance & driving impressions

With the long-range 160 kW motor the Scenic is brisk off the line — 0–100 km/h in roughly 7.9 s is a typical quoted figure — while the standard 125 kW unit delivers adequate acceleration for everyday use. Top speed is electronically limited at around 170–190 km/h depending on market spec. Most road testers say the Scenic favors comfort and efficiency over sporty handling; it’s composed and easy to drive, but not a drivers’ car. That’s fine — the target audience is families and commuters who want an efficient, comfortable EV.

Interior, space and practicality

Renault leaned into the Scenic name’s heritage — which historically emphasized interior space and family usability — by delivering a roomy cabin with good rear-seat legroom and a flat floor (thanks to the skateboard EV architecture). The dashboard is clean and dominated by the OpenR Link infotainment system with Google services built-in (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto options vary by market). Materials feel modern and the overall fit and finish in higher trims is noticeably improved over older Renaults.

Boot capacity is generous for the segment, and folding the rear bench opens up a surprisingly large cargo area (Renault quotes up to around 1,449–1,670 L depending on how you measure and the seat configuration). Rear armrests, practical storage compartments, and family-friendly touches like ISOFIX and multiple USB charging points are present.

Tech & connectivity

OpenR Link multimedia integrates Google services and an upgraded UI; Renault also highlights “continuous upgrades” to the system for new features over time. The scenic supports connected services such as predictive maintenance, remote vehicle control (via app), and OTA updates in many markets. A head-up display, large central touchscreen (often 12″+ depending on trim), digital instrument cluster and a quality audio system (Arkamys Auditorium on some trims) round out the tech package.

Safety & ADAS

Renault equips the Scenic with a broad set of driver assistance systems: adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centring, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning and intervention, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic sign recognition, 360-degree camera and parking assistance features on higher trims. Newer updates also add driver fatigue detection and camera-based customization of driver settings. Expect solid safety scores in independent testing, though final ratings can vary by market/spec.

Charging: home and fast charging

AC charging: Home charging using a wallbox is straightforward; Renault advertises on-board AC charging up to 11 kW on many versions and some markets/specs mention up to 22 kW capability. That means overnight full charges at home are realistic for both battery sizes.
DC fast charging: Up to ~150 kW on the EV87 long-range variant, enabling fast 10–80% sessions in competitive times (actual charge speed depends on battery temperature, state of charge and charger). For long trips, the 87 kWh pack’s higher usable capacity plus faster charging makes highway travel more convenient.

Trim levels & pricing (what to expect)

Pricing varies significantly by country, incentives and trim. In the UK, for example, Renault lists a starting price in the mid-£30k region for the Techno trim (which is often the entry into the battery lineup), while long-range versions and higher trims move into the high-£30k to low-£40k bracket. Across Europe, pricing and included features will differ, and purchase/leasing deals change frequently. Always check local Renault websites or dealers for exact, up-to-date pricing.

Who should buy the Renault Scenic E-Tech?

Buy it if:

You want a practical family EV with lots of interior space and a sensible driving range.
You value real-world range and low running costs — the 87 kWh variant is excellent if you do longer journeys frequently.
You like modern tech, Google-integrated infotainment and a comfortable, efficient ride.

Skip it if:

You want a sporty, dynamic handling car — the Scenic emphasizes efficiency and comfort over sharp sporty dynamics.
You need towing capacity or a heavy-duty SUV footprint — this is a mid-size crossover focused on everyday family use.

Detailed specs table

Item	EV60 (Standard)	EV87 (Long Range)
Usable battery capacity	~60 kWh	87 kWh
Motor power	~125 kW (170 hp)	160 kW (220 hp)
Torque	~280 Nm	~300 Nm
Drive	FWD	FWD
WLTP range (quoted)	~420–430 km	up to ~600–625 km
Real-world range (typical reported)	~350–420 km	~450–480 km (varies)
0–100 km/h	~8.5–9.0 s (approx)	~7.9 s
Top speed	~170 km/h	~170–185 km/h
DC fast charging peak	up to ~100 kW (varies)	up to ~150 kW
AC onboard charging	up to 11 kW (some specs 22 kW)	up to 11 kW (market dependent)
Boot / cargo (max)	~1,400–1,670 L (seats down, market measure varies)	same
Typical kerb weight	~1,850–1,900 kg	~1,850–1,900 kg
Key features	OpenR Link infotainment, family storage, ADAS suite	As above + longer range, faster charging
Sources	Renault / EVdb / press reviews.	Renault / EVdb / press reviews.

Notes: WLTP and real-world figures vary by market, trim, wheel size and driving conditions. Always check local Renault specs for exact numbers and the specific configuration you’re considering.

Real-world ownership: costs, warranty and running

Electric ownership economics depend on electricity price, charging habits and incentives. In many European markets Renault offers warranties on battery health (often 8 years / 160,000 km for a certain retained capacity — check local terms). Maintenance costs are typically lower than ICE cars (fewer moving parts), but tyre and brake wear, insurance and charging infrastructure access are important cost factors. Renault also provides connected services and maintenance packages to smooth ownership. renault.co.uk+1

Competitors — how the Scenic stacks up

In the mid-size, family-oriented EV segment the Scenic competes with models like the Kia EV6 / EV3 family offerings, Hyundai Ioniq 5/7 variants, Volkswagen ID.4/ID.5 depending on configuration, and various Chinese OEM entries that are expanding in Europe. The Scenic’s strengths are range efficiency (especially the 87 kWh model), interior space and price/value ratio in many markets. If you prioritise sportiness or a particular brand ecosystem, one of the competitors may suit you better — but the Scenic is compelling if you want a practical, long-range family EV at a competitive price.

Pros & Cons — quick list

Pros

Class-leading long-range option (87 kWh delivering great WLTP figures). EV Database
Spacious, family-friendly interior with modern infotainment. renault.co.uk+1
Competitive pricing for the features offered. renault.co.uk

Cons

Handling is comfortable but not sporty — enthusiasts may prefer sharper rivals.
Visibility and certain trim-dependent fitments were noted as “only okay” by some reviewers.

Final verdict

The Renault Scenic E-Tech successfully reimagines the Scenic as a modern electric family car: roomy, efficient and packed with tech. The long-range 87 kWh variant is the headline grabber, delivering WLTP figures that make long journeys genuinely practical while the standard 60 kWh option offers a more affordable, still-capable alternative. If you want a comfortable, efficient family EV with a strong value proposition and the convenience of Renault’s connected tech, the Scenic E-Tech should be on your shortlist. Always test-drive your preferred trim, compare real-world range reports for the battery you want, and check local pricing and incentives.

Helpful links & sources

Renault Scenic E-Tech official page (specs & trims).
EV-Database — technical breakdown and real-world estimates
Renault press & media releases — features and safety updates.
Independent reviews (Carwow, Top Gear) for driving impressions and buying guidance.

April 15, 2024