Renault 5

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Reinvented for the modern era, the biggest change, other than perhaps the increase in size and safety aids, is what powers the Renault 5 – it’s a fully electric car.

Driving

Grown up is probably the best way to describe the Renault 5’s handling, because it’s pleasant and confidence–inspiring to drive. As well as being a quiet cruiser by class standards, it also has a longer range than most rivals.

The E-Tech 120 version of the Renault 5 has a 121bhp electric motor driving its front wheels. The more powerful E–Tech 150 version has a 148bhp motor and comes with a bigger ‘Comfort Range’ battery. With a usable capacity of 52kWh, it promises an official range of up to 252 miles. The E–Tech 120 has a usable capacity of 40kWh and an official range of up to 193 miles.

The Renault 5 is well–suited to town driving. The tight turning circle of just 10.3m helps, but the light, accurate steering also makes it fun to drive. All versions of the Renault 5 have big, 18in wheels, but the ride is still very comfortable.

Interior

While the exterior may hark back to the Renault 5’s past, the interior certainly doesn’t, as it’s thoroughly modern in design, with two rectangular digital displays across the driver’s side of the dashboard.

The display directly behind the steering wheel shows your speed, remaining range and other trip computer information. The other screen is mounted alongside towards the centre of the dashboard, although it’s angled towards the driver to make it easier to see. This second screen measures 10.1in, in any trim, and houses the infotainment, including navigation, music and charging.

The Renault 5’s operating system is intuitive and you get Android Auto and Apple CarPlay on all trim levels, while Techno and Iconic Five trims add an excellent Google–based sat–nav app and useful voice–control assistant.

There’s a panel below the touchscreen with proper buttons, making it easy to adjust the fan speed or temperature while you’re driving.

The driving position is excellent with plenty of adjustment in the seat and steering wheel, and visibility is good, too. Rear parking sensors come as standard even on entry–level Evolution trim, while Techno and Iconic Five versions have a rear-view camera.

Space and practicality

The good news is that the new Renault 5 is much bigger than its seventies namesake, which makes it a good option on the Scheme if you don’t need huge amounts of room in the rear. Taller adults sitting in the front have plenty of headroom and seats that slide back a long way on their runners. Space in the back is less impressive but children and shorter adults will be OK and there's the bonus of rear doors.

The positive news continues if you need to carry a scooter. Our TGA Whill R easily fitted in the boot with the rear seats folded down. However, there’s no height–adjustable boot floor. We suggest you try loading your scooter at the dealer to check it works for you.

Equipment

Entry–level Evolution trim is jam–packed with equipment, air-conditioning, cruise control and keyless entry.

The Techno trim adds the Google–based infotainment, a pre–conditioning function for the battery and adaptive cruise control. All versions of the Renault 5 have automatic emergency braking, driver attention monitoring and lane–keeping assistance, while Iconic Five trim adds blind–spot monitoring.

Photos: Renault, DPPI/Renault, Katie Rollings/Renault, Vauxhall Motors, Richard Parsons/MG, Carl Rodgerson