A Resurrected Icon for the Modern Urbanite
For a decade now, I’ve navigated the ever-shifting landscape of the automotive industry, observing trends, dissecting innovations, and witnessing the evolution of vehicles from mere transportation to extensions of our digital lives. In that time, one observation has become increasingly apparent: the enduring appeal of nostalgia, when expertly fused with cutting-edge technology, can create something truly special. Renault, a brand long associated with charming, practical, and decidedly Gallic automobiles, has embraced this philosophy with gusto, and their latest offering, the 2025 Renault 4 E-Tech, is a masterful testament to this approach. It’s the retro-futuristic city car you didn’t realize you were yearning for.
Renault’s recent foray into the electric vehicle (EV) market has been nothing short of remarkable. Following the triumphant revival of the iconic Renault 5, and the sportier Alpine A290 variant, the reintroduction of the Renault 4 E-Tech electric completes a trio of retro-inspired EVs that have captured the imagination and admiration of drivers across Europe. These aren’t mere carbon copies of their predecessors; rather, they are intelligent reinterpretations, meticulously engineered with the finest contemporary EV technology, proving that looking backward can indeed be the most progressive way forward. The sheer delight elicited by the Renault 5’s vibrant palette and peppy performance has set a high bar, and the question on many minds has been: can the resurrected 4 E-Tech electric capture that same magic? After extensive evaluation, my answer is a resounding yes.
A Legacy Reimagined: The Renault 4 E-Tech Electric’s Design and Heritage
The original Renault 4, produced from the early 1960s to the mid-1990s, was a cultural phenomenon. It was the quintessential French “voiture” – unpretentious, incredibly practical, and possessed of an undeniable charm that made it accessible to the masses. It was a small box on wheels that facilitated everyday life with quiet efficiency. Today’s Renault 4 E-Tech electric carries that spirit forward, albeit in a significantly more sophisticated and sustainable package.
Built on the same versatile electric platform that underpins the much-lauded Renault 5, the new 4 E-Tech electric eschews the rumble of an internal combustion engine for the silent, clean power of electricity. This modern iteration offers a commendable WLTP-certified range of up to 247 miles on a single charge, a figure that far surpasses its gasoline-powered ancestor’s capabilities and positions it as a genuinely viable option for daily commutes and weekend excursions.
While not as overtly aggressive or visually arresting as its Renault 5 sibling, the 4 E-Tech electric possesses its own unique brand of understated elegance. Its design meticulously references the original’s beloved silhouette, a subtle boxiness softened by contemporary proportions and aerodynamic considerations necessary for an EV. The dimensions have been thoughtfully increased to accommodate passengers, cargo, and the vital battery pack while adhering to modern safety standards. The result is a vehicle that is undeniably “cute” without tipping into twee territory. It has a distinct presence, a friendly face that beckons you closer. For those seeking an electric city car that injects a dose of personality into their daily drive, the 2025 Renault 4 E-Tech electric delivers in spades. The clever graphic design elements, thoughtful detailing, and that unmistakable “Frenchness” combine to create a desirable object that resonates with the potent allure of nostalgia. In a world increasingly dominated by homogenous automotive design, a touch of the past, delivered with such sophisticated execution, feels like a much-needed antidote.
Powertrain and Performance: Efficient, Pragmatic, and Surprising
Renault has opted for a refreshingly straightforward approach to the 4 E-Tech electric’s powertrain, particularly in the UK market. A single, well-balanced configuration is offered: a 52-kilowatt-hour battery feeding a 150-horsepower electric motor that drives the front wheels. This setup translates to a brisk 0-62 mph sprint in a respectable 8.2 seconds and a top speed of 93 mph. While these figures might not set your pulse racing in the same way as a performance EV, they are more than adequate for the car’s intended purpose – navigating urban environments and suburban arteries with confidence and ease.
What truly sets the Renault 4 E-Tech electric apart is its pragmatic approach to range. The official WLTP figure of 247 miles is a strong starting point, but Renault has gone a step further by implementing an innovative “How Far Will I Really Go?” tool on their website. This feature allows prospective buyers to input their typical driving routes, ambient temperature, and preferred driving modes to receive a more realistic range prediction. This transparency is a welcome departure from the often-optimistic figures bandied about by the industry and instills a greater sense of confidence in potential owners. Understanding your vehicle’s capabilities and limitations upfront is crucial, and this tool demonstrates a commitment to customer satisfaction that is increasingly rare.
For those concerned about charging times, the 4 E-Tech electric boasts a 100 kW DC fast-charging capability. This is perfectly suited for a car designed for shorter journeys, enabling a 15% to 80% charge in approximately 30 minutes. Imagine pulling into a supermarket car park, plugging in, and returning from your weekly shop with a significantly replenished battery – a seamless integration of charging into daily routines. This electric city car is designed for convenience, and its charging infrastructure reflects that ethos.
Interior and Practicality: Charmingly Functional
Beyond its retro aesthetics and efficient powertrain, the Renault 4 E-Tech electric excels in its practicality. The original 4 was renowned for its spaciousness relative to its compact footprint, and this modern interpretation continues that legacy. The cargo area offers a generous 14.8 cubic feet with the rear seats in place, expanding to a cavernous 49.6 cubic feet when they are folded down. This makes it more than capable of handling grocery runs, luggage for weekend trips, or even transporting larger items.
Inside, the cabin is a thoughtful blend of modern technology and user-friendly design. Numerous cubby holes and storage compartments are strategically placed to swallow up daily detritus, keeping the interior tidy and organized. A pair of welcome cup holders in the center console add to the everyday convenience. The overall impression is one of intelligent design, prioritizing the needs of real-world drivers.
The Driving Experience: Effortless Joy on Four Wheels
The moment you slip behind the wheel of the 2025 Renault 4 E-Tech electric, a sense of immediate comfort and ease washes over you. This is not a car that demands your attention; rather, it invites you to relax and enjoy the journey. There are no pretensions of sporting prowess here, although a “Sport” mode is available for those times when a bit more verve is desired. The controls are exceptionally light, making maneuvering through city streets a fluid and stress-free affair.
Selecting “D” from the steering-column-mounted stalk and applying gentle pressure to the accelerator pedal, you glide away silently. In “Comfort” mode, the car responds eagerly to even the lightest touch, feeling suitably zippy for urban driving. The “Eco” mode subtly dulls the throttle response, prioritizing range extension – a smart inclusion for drivers who frequently venture beyond their immediate locale. For those who appreciate customization, a “Perso” mode allows you to tailor the car’s driving characteristics to your personal preference.
Maintaining local speed limits is effortless, and the car provides a gentle audible alert should you stray too far above them. Like all contemporary vehicles, the 4 E-Tech electric comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of mandated active safety features. While their persistent auditory interventions can sometimes be irksome, they can be deactivated relatively easily, a welcome concession for drivers who prefer a less intrusive experience.
The car’s tall, somewhat slab-sided profile, while contributing to its distinctive appearance, also aids maneuverability, allowing it to slip through tight gaps with confidence. The greenhouse, however, is on the smaller side, and the rear window offers limited visibility. Thankfully, a reversing camera is standard, though its rather low resolution was a minor quibble during my testing. Despite this, it fulfills its function, providing enough of a view to navigate tight parking spaces safely.
On the open road, the Renault 4 E-Tech electric performs admirably. It cruises comfortably at highway speeds, and the available power is sufficient for confident overtaking maneuvers. While wind noise is noticeable at higher velocities, the cabin remains quiet enough to enjoy podcasts or engage in conversations without strain. Ultimately, this vehicle is engineered to smooth out the rough edges of daily commuting, transforming mundane journeys into moments of calm.
Even on more engaging, winding roads, the 4 E-Tech electric proves to be an enjoyable companion. Its modest power output, combined with the instant torque of the electric motor, allows for a consistent and enjoyable flow. The suspension strikes an excellent balance between comfort and control, exhibiting a slight, predictable lean in corners that adds to the car’s character. The steering is light and responsive, complementing the overall easy-driving nature of the car. The “Sport” mode injects a welcome dose of responsiveness, but it’s the standard “Comfort” mode that truly shines, offering a delightful blend of fun without excessive speed – a rare and valuable combination in today’s automotive landscape.
The steering-wheel-mounted paddles offer granular control over regenerative braking, allowing for everything from minimal energy recuperation to full one-pedal driving. While experimenting with these settings can be engaging, most drivers will likely settle into the convenience of one-pedal driving and focus on their journey.
The digital instrument cluster is exceptionally clear, displaying vital information such as speed, driving mode, and remaining range with large, legible text. The 10.3-inch central infotainment touchscreen is equally intuitive and responsive, even to the lightest of finger touches. Renault’s proprietary software is user-friendly, and seamless integration with Apple CarPlay is also a welcome addition. While some climate control functions retain physical buttons, the operation of the excellent heated seats is managed through the touchscreen.
What Shines and What Could Be Smoother
The Good:
The overwhelming impression of the 2025 Renault 4 E-Tech electric is one of unadulterated joy. Renault’s recent EV offerings eschew the overly serious pronouncements of “driving pleasure” often found elsewhere, and the 4 E-Tech electric embodies this philosophy perfectly. It’s a car that simply makes you feel good when you’re behind the wheel. Its refusal to take itself too seriously and its encouragement of relaxed driving are significant positives, especially in an era where automotive marketing often promotes aggressive driving styles.
This deliberate absence of sporting pretension directly translates into a remarkably comfortable ride. The suspension is pliant, effectively absorbing road imperfections, and the seats provide excellent support without feeling constricting. Gliding through city traffic is a serene experience, making long commutes far less taxing. This comfort is a crucial advantage for a vehicle clearly designed for urban environments.
Interestingly, despite anecdotal evidence from the Renault 5 regarding range reduction in colder weather, the 4 E-Tech electric demonstrated impressive resilience. During my mixed-driving evaluation, it consistently achieved around 3.6 miles per kilowatt-hour, suggesting a real-world range of approximately 187 miles – a significantly smaller drop than anticipated, solidifying its practicality even in less-than-ideal conditions.
The Not-So-Good:
The steering-wheel-mounted gear selector, while an elegant piece of hardware, can occasionally be a source of frustration. Its operation, mirroring that of an automatic transmission in an internal combustion engine vehicle, requires a firm press of the brake pedal to engage forward or reverse gears. If the pressure is insufficient, even when stationary, the car will refuse to shift. This, combined with the potential for distraction, could lead to unintentional forward or backward movement if the driver isn’t paying close attention, potentially resulting in minor mishaps.
While active safety features are a legal and sensible mandate, the constant barrage of audible alerts can become fatiguing. Although a programmable hotkey on the steering wheel allows for their deactivation, the onus is on the owner to remember and utilize this feature. One sincerely hopes that drivers will opt for a less intrusive experience for their own sanity.
The reversing camera, while functional, is a prime example of where cost savings seem to have impacted user experience. While it does allow you to identify obstacles, the low resolution is a letdown and detracts from an otherwise impressive suite of technology.
Price and Verdict: A Compelling Case for the Charming Commuter
When compared to the Renault 5, which offers a lower entry price with a smaller battery option starting around $35,668 (£27,195), the Renault 4 E-Tech electric begins at a slightly higher point, retailing at approximately $35,668 (£27,195) in the UK, with higher trim levels reaching around $40,914 (£31,195). While the higher end of this spectrum might seem substantial, the value proposition is strong when considering the unique blend of retro charm, modern EV technology, and practical functionality it offers. It’s certainly not a budget option, but the configurator experience and the vehicle’s overall appeal justify the investment.
The Renault 4 E-Tech electric will not be the perfect fit for every driver. Its compact dimensions, modest range, and 100 kW charging speed, while adequate for many, may not satisfy everyone’s needs. However, for those seeking an urban-focused vehicle that injects a palpable sense of joy and individuality into their daily commute, it is an exceptional choice. It’s fun to drive, remarkably easy to live with, and possesses a visual appeal that vastly outshines the often-bland uniformity of many contemporary city cars.
For the individuals it does resonate with, the 2025 Renault 4 E-Tech electric promises to be nothing short of perfect. It is a vehicle designed not just for transportation, but for brightening everyday moments. It’s a tangible link to a beloved past, reimagined for a sustainable future, and a welcome addition to the discerning driver’s garage.
If you’re ready to rediscover the simple pleasure of driving and embrace a car that brings a genuine smile to your face every time you get behind the wheel, explore the Renault 4 E-Tech electric and discover if this resurrected icon is the perfect companion for your urban adventures.
