A Nostalgic Electric Encore for the Modern Urban Landscape
For a decade now, I’ve witnessed automotive trends ebb and flow, from the relentless pursuit of raw power to the current, undeniably dominant wave of electrification. Yet, amidst the flurry of high-performance EVs and sprawling luxury SUVs, a different kind of automotive appeal has emerged – one that taps into our collective memories and offers a charming, practical alternative. Renault, a brand long associated with accessible innovation, has masterfully reanimated an icon from its storied past, presenting the 2025 Renault 4 E-Tech. This isn’t just a car; it’s a thoughtfully engineered revival of a beloved nameplate, infused with cutting-edge electric technology and tailored for the realities of 21st-century urban mobility.
Renault’s recent trajectory in the electric vehicle segment has been nothing short of impressive. Following the enthusiastic reception of the retro-futuristic Renault 5 E-Tech, and the sportier Alpine A290 variant, the introduction of the reborn Renault 4 E-Tech solidifies their commitment to a unique and appealing electric lineup. These vehicles don’t just offer emission-free travel; they provide an emotional connection, a tangible link to simpler times, wrapped in sophisticated, modern EV packaging. It’s a strategy that recognizes the growing demand for charming city cars, vehicles that prioritize personality and practicality over sheer performance metrics.
The original Renault 4, affectionately known as the “Quatre,” was a cornerstone of French automotive culture from its debut in the early 1960s through the mid-1990s. It was the epitome of functional design: affordable, robust, and incredibly versatile, empowering everyday individuals to navigate their lives with confidence. This enduring legacy is precisely what the 2025 Renault 4 E-Tech aims to recapture, albeit with a decidedly modern, electric powertrain.
Reimagining an Icon for the Electric Age
The 2025 Renault 4 E-Tech shares its foundational platform with the already lauded Renault 5 E-Tech, a testament to intelligent engineering and shared development. However, the two vehicles carve out distinct identities. While the Renault 5 leans into a sportier, more dynamic aesthetic, the Renault 4 E-Tech embraces a more utilitarian, yet undeniably endearing, character. Its design language pays homage to the original’s boxy, functional silhouette, but with a sophisticated adaptation for the demands of today’s automotive landscape. Increased dimensions accommodate modern safety features, battery packs, and passenger comfort, while subtle design cues – from its distinctive lighting signatures to its playful graphic elements – evoke a sense of warm familiarity. For those seeking a practical electric hatchback that doesn’t blend into the monochrome anonymity of many contemporary offerings, the Renault 4 E-Tech presents a compelling, smile-inducing proposition.
Beyond its visual appeal, the Renault 4 E-Tech is engineered for the realities of modern driving. In the UK market, it’s offered with a single, well-balanced powertrain configuration: a 52-kilowatt-hour battery feeding a 150-horsepower electric motor driving the front wheels. This setup delivers a respectable 181 lb-ft of torque, propelling the 4 E-Tech from 0 to 62 mph in a brisk 8.2 seconds, with a top speed of 93 mph. While these figures might not set any speed records, they are more than adequate for its intended purpose: efficient and enjoyable urban and suburban commuting.
The estimated range of up to 247 miles (WLTP) positions the Renault 4 E-Tech favorably within its segment, especially for city dwellers. To address the perennial concern of real-world electric car range, Renault has implemented an intelligent “how far will I really go” tool on its website. This feature allows prospective buyers to input driving conditions, ambient temperature, and driving modes to receive a more personalized and realistic range estimate. This level of transparency is a welcome departure from the sometimes-optimistic figures often quoted and fosters greater consumer trust.
Charging and Practicality: Designed for Daily Life
Charging infrastructure and speed are crucial considerations for any EV owner. The Renault 4 E-Tech features DC fast charging capabilities capped at 100 kW. While not the absolute fastest on the market, this is a perfectly sensible speed for a car primarily designed for shorter journeys. Renault claims a 15% to 80% charge can be completed in approximately 30 minutes, a timeframe that aligns neatly with a typical grocery run. Imagine plugging in your Renault 4 E-Tech at a supermarket, completing your weekly shop, and returning to a significantly replenished battery – a seamless integration into daily routines. This focus on convenient EV charging underscores Renault’s understanding of its target demographic.
Practicality has always been a hallmark of the Renault 4, and the E-Tech version continues this tradition. The cargo area offers a respectable 14.8 cubic feet of space with the rear seats in place, expanding to a cavernous 49.6 cubic feet when they are folded down. This flexibility makes it an ideal companion for everything from weekly errands to weekend escapes. Thoughtful interior storage solutions, including numerous cubby holes and a pair of dedicated cup holders in the center console, ensure that everyday essentials are always within easy reach. This emphasis on versatile electric vehicle storage further enhances its appeal as a daily driver.
The Driving Experience: Effortless Charm and Urban Agility
Stepping into the 2025 Renault 4 E-Tech is an invitation to a relaxed and enjoyable driving experience. There are no pretensions of sporting prowess, though a “Sport” mode does add a touch more verve when desired. The controls are exceptionally light and intuitive, contributing to an overall sense of ease. Selecting “D” from the steering-column-mounted selector and gently pressing the accelerator pedal initiates a smooth, gliding motion.
In “Comfort” mode, the car responds with a pleasant eagerness, making it feel suitably perky for navigating urban traffic. The “Eco” mode, while slightly muting the throttle response, is invaluable for maximizing range, allowing drivers to confidently embark on longer journeys or simply extend their driving time between charges. For those seeking a personalized touch, a “Perso” mode allows for fine-tuning of various vehicle settings. This thoughtful approach to customizable EV driving modes caters to a variety of preferences and driving styles.
The Renault 4 E-Tech readily achieves and maintains local speed limits, with an audible alert gently reminding drivers if they exceed them. Like all contemporary vehicles, it’s equipped with a comprehensive suite of mandated active safety features. While these systems are designed to enhance safety, their often-auditory nature can be intrusive. Fortunately, Renault has provided the option to disable these features, a crucial consideration for drivers who value a less intrusive experience.
Its tall, somewhat upright stance, coupled with a relatively compact footprint, makes threading the Renault 4 E-Tech through tight city streets and congested parking lots a remarkably easy task. The visibility from the cabin, while perhaps not expansive due to a slightly smaller glasshouse than some rivals, is generally good. However, the rear window’s resolution and field of view are somewhat limited, necessitating reliance on the standard reversing camera. While functional, the camera’s low resolution is a minor detraction from an otherwise well-executed interior. This highlights the importance of high-resolution EV cameras and parking aids in enhancing driver confidence and safety.
On the open road, the Renault 4 E-Tech performs admirably. It maintains highway speeds with composure, and its modest power output is sufficient for confident overtaking maneuvers. While some wind noise is perceptible within the cabin at higher speeds, it remains a quiet and refined environment, conducive to enjoying podcasts or engaging in conversation. In essence, the 4 E-Tech excels at smoothing out the drudgery of daily commutes, transforming them into more pleasant experiences.
Even on winding country roads, the Renault 4 E-Tech proves to be a surprisingly enjoyable companion. Its modest power and immediate electric torque allow for sustained momentum through corners. The suspension, tuned for comfort rather than outright sportiness, exhibits a gentle lean, contributing to a feeling of planted confidence rather than harsh rigidity. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to place the car accurately. The “Sport” mode sharpens responses slightly, but the car’s inherent character remains one of relaxed enjoyment. It strikes a rare and valuable balance: fun to drive without being excessively fast, a philosophy that resonates deeply in an era of increasingly powerful yet often overwhelming vehicles.
Adjustable regenerative braking, controlled via steering-wheel-mounted paddles, adds another layer of engagement. Drivers can dial in anything from minimal regeneration to full one-pedal driving. While the one-pedal mode is undeniably efficient and can become second nature, the ability to fine-tune the system offers a degree of control that many EV drivers appreciate. This feature contributes to the overall sense of intuitive EV energy regeneration.
The interior’s digital interfaces are equally user-friendly. The instrument cluster features large, clear text, making vital information such as speed, selected mode, and remaining range instantly legible. The 10.3-inch central infotainment touchscreen responds promptly to inputs, even light touches, which is a welcome ergonomic consideration. Renault’s proprietary software is intuitive and easy to navigate, and seamless integration with Apple CarPlay provides familiar functionality for smartphone users. While some climate control functions are managed through physical buttons, a highly appreciated feature, the heated seats, are accessed via the touchscreen.
What Truly Shines and Where There’s Room for Improvement
The Good:
Unadulterated Joy: The Renault 4 E-Tech’s most significant triumph lies in its ability to evoke genuine happiness. Unlike many vehicles that market “joy” through aggressive performance, the 4 E-Tech delivers it through its accessible character and pleasant driving demeanor. It encourages relaxed driving, a refreshing antidote to the often-frantic nature of modern motoring. This focus on accessible EV driving enjoyment is a major selling point.
Comfort-Oriented Agility: Its designation as a “not sporty” car is, in fact, a significant advantage. The suspension is pliant, the seats are supportive and comfortable, allowing for effortless cruising. Extended periods in city traffic become far less taxing, a crucial benefit for a vehicle intended for urban environments. This makes it an ideal comfortable electric city car.
Efficient Performance in the Cold: In contrast to some EVs where cold weather significantly impacts range, the Renault 4 E-Tech demonstrated commendable resilience. Over mixed driving conditions, it achieved an impressive 3.6 miles per kilowatt-hour, translating to an estimated real-world range of approximately 187 miles. This indicates a well-managed thermal system and less range degradation than anticipated, a key factor for all-weather EV reliability.
The Not-So-Good:
The Gear Selector Quirk: The steering-wheel-mounted gear selector, while a neat design element, can occasionally be a source of frustration. It operates similarly to a conventional automatic transmission lever: foot on brake, shift into Drive or Reverse, release brake, and go. However, if insufficient brake pressure is applied, even when stationary, the selector can resist changing direction. Combined with a moment’s inattention to the display indicating the selected gear, this could inadvertently lead to an unintended acceleration in the wrong direction. This design choice, while intended to mimic familiar controls, could pose a minor hazard for the inattentive driver and highlights a need for user-friendly EV controls.
Overzealous Safety Chimes: While mandated active safety features are essential for reducing accidents, the constant audible alerts can become irritating. Although a programmable hotkey on the steering wheel allows for their deactivation, the question remains whether all owners will take the time to set this up. For the sake of driver sanity and a more relaxed driving environment, these alerts need careful consideration by manufacturers and drivers alike. This underscores the ongoing debate around intrusive EV safety alerts.
Underwhelming Reversing Camera: As mentioned, the reversing camera, while fulfilling its basic function of detecting obstacles, suffers from a rather poor image quality. While sufficient for maneuvering, its low resolution is a disappointment in an otherwise modern vehicle and detracts from the overall confidence when parking in tight spaces. This is a prime area where advancements in high-definition EV camera technology would be highly beneficial.
Pricing and Conclusion: A Charming Electric Future
In the UK market, the Renault 4 E-Tech starts at £27,195 (approximately $35,668 USD), with higher trim levels reaching £31,195 (approximately $40,914 USD). While the higher-end configurations approach premium pricing, the overall value proposition remains strong, especially when considering the unique blend of style, practicality, and electric innovation offered. This positions it as a competitive affordable electric car option for discerning buyers.
The 2025 Renault 4 E-Tech is not a vehicle for everyone. Its compact size, moderate range, and 100 kW charging speed might not suit every driver’s needs. However, for those who primarily navigate urban landscapes, with occasional forays into the countryside, it represents a brilliant choice. It is fun to drive, remarkably easy to live with, and possesses a distinct charm that sets it apart from the often-impersonal offerings from other manufacturers.
For the individuals who connect with its ethos, the Renault 4 E-Tech will likely prove to be an utterly perfect companion, injecting a welcome dose of personality and joy into their daily journeys. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t just get you from point A to point B; it makes the journey itself a little brighter.
Ready to rediscover the joy of driving with a touch of nostalgic flair? Explore the 2025 Renault 4 E-Tech today and experience how this charming electric city car can transform your daily commute. Visit your local Renault dealership or explore the configurator online to find the perfect specification for your needs.
