Ahead of a potential Australian release, the 2024 Renault 5 – a retro-styled electric hatchback slightly larger than the new Mini Cooper – has been revealed at the Geneva Motor Show. To be offered in two battery sizes with up to 400km of driving range on the WLTP cycle, the 5 will reportedly be one of Europe’s cheapest electric vehicles and will be priced from around €25,000 (AU$41,000) – just €1,200 more than the hybrid version of the current Renault Clio hatchback.
According to Renault, “the original Renault 5 sold over 5.5 million units across five continents from 1972 to 1985. Always ahead of its time, it was the first car to achieve fuel consumption below the symbolic 5 litres/100km at 90km/h, and was even available in an electric version as far back as 1974. It was visionary to the end, marking the beginnings of eco-design with a roof made from bonded natural fibres, unrivalled interior space and innovative style.”
“The Renault 5 E-Tech electric, faithful to the 2021 concept car, harks back to this glorious past while building on the enduring love-affair it shared with many. Yet it is also the epitome of modernity, from its all-electric AmpR small car platform through to its agile handling and cool, new technology. That includes Reno, the avatar who is ready to partner you on every journey, and a unique charging indicator on the bonnet.”
Obviously, the design of the 2024 Renault 5 owes lots to the original model, but there are lots of modern touches as well. The square signatures in the headlights and daytime running lights add character – and even wink at you when unlocked – while the 5’s short and wide dimensions add to its cute stance.
Measuring 3,920mm long, 1,770mm wide, 1,500mm tall and riding on a 2,540mm long wheelbase, the five-door 2024 Renault 5 is around 70mm longer than the new Cooper. Under the body is Renault’s ‘AmpR’ platform, which was previously known as ‘CMF-B EV’, that shares a number of parts with petrol-powered Renault products to cut costs. Because of that sharing with other Renault products, the 5’s platform is reportedly 30 per cent cheaper to make than the Zoe’s that it replaces. For the larger battery variant, the Renault 5 weighs 1,450kg.
There will be a choice of two battery packs, both using nickel-manganese-cobalt technology: either a 40kWh unit for 300km of WLTP range or larger 52kWh unit for 400km of WLTP range. Charging speeds depend on which battery is chosen: the smaller battery can DC fast charge at up to 80kW, while the larger unit can charge at up to 100kW. Both battery sizes are capable of a 15 to 80 per cent fast charge in as little as 30 minutes, while AC charging up to 11kW will be standard.
The smaller battery is available with either a 70kW/215Nm or a 90kW/225Nm electric motor, while the larger battery has a 110kW/245Nm motor. Renault claims a 0-100km/h sprint time of under 8.0 seconds, with a 150km/h top speed for the 110kW variant. All 5 models are front-wheel drive and use an independent rear suspension set up.
The inside of the 2024 Renault 5 is dominated by screens – a 10.1-inch touchscreen is standard across the range and features inbuilt Google tech, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Base variants feature a 7.0-inch digital driver’s display, with upper-spec models upgrading to a larger 10.1-inch unit. The 5’s air vents echo the square headlight trims, while the seat upholstery is trimmed in either fabric or denim, which is largely recycled fibres and plastic water bottles. One noteworthy optional feature is the baguette holder, which clips onto the centre console so that no crumbs get on the car’s upholstery.
Standard equipment across the range in Europe includes a full suite of active safety kit including auto emergency braking (in both forward and reverse), lane keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control with stop and go functionality and adaptive lane guidance, as well as 18-inch alloy wheels, the aforementioned 10.1-inch touchscreen, keyless entry and start, an electric parking brake and LED exterior lighting.
The 2024 Renault 5 is due to go on sale in Europe later this year, with Australian plans yet to be announced. Stay tuned to DiscoverAuto for the latest automotive news and reviews.
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