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April 10, 2025 – Renault has officially rolled out a significant refresh for its retro-inspired electric hatchback, the Renault 5 E-Tech. The update brings a new 110-horsepower motor, a longer driving range, and a suite of technological enhancements aimed at keeping the model competitive in the increasingly crowded affordable EV segment.
The new powertrain option targets buyers who want more punch than the standard 95-hp version without stepping up to the sportier 150-hp Alpine variant. The 110-hp motor delivers 0–62 mph in approximately 9.0 seconds, making it a solid choice for both city driving and highway merging. Renault engineers tuned the motor for linear power delivery, ensuring a smooth, natural feel behind the wheel.
Extended Range Through Battery Chemistry The biggest headline is the range boost. The 2026 Renault 5 E-Tech now features a 52 kWh battery pack (up from 40 kWh in the base model) that uses a new nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) chemistry. WLTP estimates put the combined range at 248 miles on a single charge, a 15% improvement over the previous 40 kWh version. In real-world U.S. driving conditions, that should translate to roughly 220–230 miles, making it a viable daily driver for most commuters. Charging speed also gets a bump: DC fast charging now supports up to 100 kW, allowing a 10–80% top-up in just 30 minutes.
Tech Overhaul: Smarter Infotainment and Driver Aids Inside, the 5 E-Tech gets a new 10.1-inch OpenR Link infotainment system with Google built-in, offering enhanced voice control, over-the-air updates, and a redesigned interface. The system now supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Renault also introduced a new level-2 driver assistance package, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering, and traffic sign recognition. The update rounds out with a new 360-degree camera and improved parking sensors.
Pricing and Availability The 110-hp version of the Renault 5 E-Tech is expected to hit European showrooms in late 2025, with U.S. arrival still unconfirmed (Renault does not currently sell passenger cars in the U.S. market). In Europe, the starting price for the 110-hp variant is projected at around €28,000, positioning it against the Mini Electric, Fiat 500e, and upcoming VW ID.2. For markets where the 5 E-Tech is sold, the update represents a meaningful step forward in range and technology without a significant price hike.
Industry Context: The Race for Affordable EVs Renault's update comes at a time when automakers are scrambling to offer compelling electric options under €30,000. The 5 E-Tech's blend of retro design, now-improved range, and accessible tech gives it a strong differentiator. According to a recent analysis by JATO Dynamics, the sub-€30K EV segment grew 34% in Europe in 2024, and Renault aims to capture a larger share with this mid-cycle refresh.
What’s Next? Rumors suggest Renault is also developing a 200-hp hot hatch version, expected to debut in 2026. For now, the 110-hp update offers a sweet spot for buyers who want more range and power without the premium of the Alpine model. The first customer deliveries for the upgraded 5 E-Tech are scheduled for November 2025 in Europe.
With this update, the Renault 5 E-Tech remains a strong contender in the affordable electric car segment, combining practicality, personality, and now a genuinely usable range.
