New Renault 4: family classic revived as a nostalgic electric SUV

Compared to the Renault 5, the 4 is 220 mm longer, providing more space for rear passengers and a larger boot, measuring 420 liters or 1,400 liters with the seats folded down. Perhaps a better comparison would be Renault’s other small SUV, the petrol Captur. The 4 is around 90mm longer than the model and sits a little higher off the ground, despite the two sharing the same overall height.

And what about the interior of the Renault 4?

The Renault 4’s cabin was practically taken from the Renault 5, at least at the front. There’s the same pair of displays housed in a large rectangular box, one for driving information and the other for infotainment. There are some useful shortcut buttons for the climate controls, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are present as expected.

After sitting in the driver’s seat, the soft fabrics used on the seats, doors and dashboard feel high quality and we could only find rough plastics if we deliberately looked for them. There are a handful of small storage cubbies dotted around, though you won’t be able to squeeze much into the compartment between the two front seats other than a phone or wallet. At least the detachable baguette holder from the Renault 5 made it to the 4.

What are the specifications and important details of the Renault 4?

It’s no surprise to learn that the Renault 4 shares much of its EV gubbins with the 5 – including its electric motors and batteries – given that both cars use Renault’s AmpR Small platform. The base cars will come with a 40 kWh ‘Urban’ battery and a 118 hp front motor, capable of providing more than 300 kilometers of range.

Those wanting to travel further afield can upgrade to ‘Comfort’ specification. This offers a larger 52 kWh battery and 148 hp motor, with range increasing to 249 miles as tested by WLTP. Performance will also be sharper thanks to this updated engine, with Renault quoting a 0-100km/h time of less than 8.5 seconds. Both batteries can be recharged from 15 to 80% in 30 minutes, according to Renault, while vehicle-to-charge (V2L) and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities are incorporated.

How much does the Renault 4 cost and when can I buy one?

There’s no word yet on the price of the Renault 4 in the UK, but Renault has confirmed it will sit between the 5 and the Megane E-Tech. This would suggest a starting price of around £26,000, with Comfort spec cars likely to cost a few thousand more. Renault’s usual three trim levels will be offered, Evolution, Techno and Iconic, each with more kit than the last. You can expect a bright palette of one- and two-tone paint colors, while there’s even an optional retractable fabric roof.

More information will be revealed before UK order books open in spring 2025.

Discover everything you need to know about the Renault 4’s brother, the Renault 5…