Renault is on fire! They are making exciting cars, and their latest creation is the new Renault 4. This car promises to be just as great as the Renault 5, which has already won our Car of the Year award. Today, we will explore what makes the Renault 4 special and if it can stand out in the electric SUV market.
A Nod to History
The new Renault 4 is inspired by its classic predecessor, which first hit the roads in 1961. The original Renault 4 was an affordable car designed for rural areas and competed with the famous Citroën 2CV. It was a big success for Renault and was sold for over 30 years!
Looking at the design of the new Renault 4, you can see many references to the old model. It features:
- Three-part rear lights
- A roof-mounted mini spoiler
- Vertical overriders on the front bumper
- Three lines sculpted into the doors
- A unique pattern on the roof lining
One exciting option for the new Renault 4 is a retractable canvas roof. This roof can open all the way to the back, allowing passengers in the rear seats to look up at the sky. The car comes in five different colors, including a lovely cloud blue, which is a nod to the classic model.
Innovative Design Features
One of the standout features of the Renault 4 is its world-first one-piece illuminated grill. This big piece of glass has fancy lighting around it, including a backlit Renault badge. This design may have faced challenges due to safety regulations, but Renault has worked hard to ensure that it meets safety standards while looking amazing.
The Renault 4 is a bit taller, longer, and wider than the Renault 5. This makes it more practical and gives it a different look as an electric SUV. It will compete with other electric SUVs like the Jeep Avenger, Vauxhall Mokka, Volvo EX30, and Smart #1.
Practicality: The Boot Space
Now, let’s talk about the boot space. The Renault 4 has a boot capacity of over 400 liters, which is 90 liters more than the Renault 5. This is impressive compared to its rivals like the Mokka and Jeep Avenger.
Some handy features in the boot include:
- Dinky cubby holes on either side
- A virtually flat loading lip, making it easy to load items
- 35 liters of underfloor storage for muddy boots or other items
The boot is also low to the ground, making it easy for pets and people to get in and out. Plus, the rear seats can split fold 60/40, and the front passenger seat can fold down flat, though this feature may not be available in the UK market.
Space for Passengers
Inside the Renault 4, there is more space for passengers compared to the Renault 5. The distance between the front and rear wheels is longer, providing better legroom for adults in the back seats. However, if you are over six feet tall, you might still feel a bit cramped.
Up front, the interior looks very similar to the Renault 5, and that’s a good thing! The layout is user-friendly, featuring two screens on the dashboard. The driver display and the touchscreen infotainment system are both well-placed for easy access.
On entry-level trims, you will get a smaller screen, while mid-spec and higher trims have a larger display. The infotainment system comes with Google functions like Google Maps and Google Assistant, making it easier to navigate and use voice commands. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard features.
Pricing and Battery Options
The Renault 4 will be available with the same battery and motor options as the Renault 5. The entry-level model has a 40 kWh battery with a range of about 190 miles and 118 brake horsepower. The larger battery option is a 52 kWh battery with 148 brake horsepower, expected to have a range of around 250 miles.
Charging is quick, with a 15-80% top-up taking about 30 minutes. The Renault 4 will also offer a full one-pedal driving function, which allows the car to come to a complete stop by simply lifting off the accelerator. This feature is new for Renault and will be available across their electric range in the future.
Trims and Pricing Expectations
The Renault 4 will come in three trim levels: Evolution, Techno, and the top-spec Iconic trim. While the exact pricing is not confirmed, it is expected to be priced below the more expensive models while still being competitive.
In the UK, we expect a starting price of just under £30,000. The Renault 4 will be built at Renault’s EV base in northern France, with first deliveries expected in the UK this summer.
Conclusion: A Promising Electric SUV
So, what do we think of the new Renault 4? It may not be around for 30 years like the original, but if it shares the fantastic qualities of the Renault 5 in a more practical package, it could be a great addition to the electric SUV market. We are looking forward to getting behind the wheel later this year!
FAQs
What is the range of the Renault 4?
The Renault 4 is expected to have a range of around 190 miles for the entry-level model with a 40 kWh battery and about 250 miles for the larger 52 kWh battery option.
How much will the Renault 4 cost?
While the exact pricing is not confirmed, it is expected to start at just under £30,000 in the UK.
What are the available trims for the Renault 4?
The Renault 4 will come in three trims: Evolution, Techno, and the top-spec Iconic trim.
When will the Renault 4 be available?
First deliveries of the Renault 4 in the UK are expected in the summer of this year.
What is the charging time for the Renault 4?
The Renault 4 can achieve a 15-80% top-up in about 30 minutes.
Does the Renault 4 have advanced safety features?
Yes, the Renault 4 will come with various safety features, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance.