The popular icon makes its big comeback

Produced between 1961 and 1992, the Renault 4 – affectionately nicknamed the ‘4L’ – made its mark on the history of popular motoring. Designed to be simple, robust and accessible, it was adopted by 8 million drivers around the world. Used by families, the French postal service and even the gendarmerie, it was the ultimate versatile car. In 2025, Renault is reviving this legendary model in the form of a 100% electric urban crossover.

The new Renault 4 E-Tech retains the spirit of the original with a square silhouette, pronounced wheel arches and a grille that immediately evokes the 4L of yesteryear. But it also adopts the codes of the modern SUV: raised ground clearance, 18-inch wheels, recycled materials and meticulous finishes. At 4.14 metres long, it sits between the Clio and the Mégane E-Tech, while offering a generous interior space. Renault has also announced the arrival of a large sunroof called ‘Plein Sud’, which will open over almost the entire roof by the end of the year, bringing more light into the cabin and, above all, reviving the spirit of the old 4L. However, the absence of a panoramic roof is regrettable.

This is not a big R5

Despite elements similar to the Renault 5, the 100% electric R4 is not a carbon copy. It drives quite differently. More flexible and, above all, less nervous, its handling is much more comfortable than that of the latest R5 and will be more suitable for family use.

Under the bonnet, the Renault 4 E-Tech offers two electric engines. The first develops 120 horsepower and is combined with a 40 kWh battery, offering a WLTP range of 308 kilometres. The second, more powerful version has 150 horsepower and a 52 kWh battery, for a range of 409 kilometres. The torque of 245 Nm ensures dynamic acceleration, ideal for city and suburban driving.

During our test drive, average consumption varied between 14.2 and 15.1 kWh per 100 kilometres. Charging is via AC power up to 11 kW, allowing a full charge in around five hours, or DC power up to 150 kW, which allows 80% of the battery to be recharged in just 30 minutes.

The battery is guaranteed for eight years or 160,000 kilometres. On board, you’ll find the OpenR Link interface with Google integrated, a dual 10.1-inch screen and full connectivity.

The interior is inspired by the Renault 5, but with more space. The 2.62-metre wheelbase provides a similar amount of room as the Captur. The boot has a capacity of 420 litres, including 44 litres under the floor for cables or a removable tray. Unlike the Renault 5, this model offers ‘One Pedal Drive’ in B mode, which is a little too light but still provides better driving comfort. It is worth noting that there are several driving modes: Comfort, Eco, Sport, as well as Snow and All-Terrain as options.

A 100% European car

For some, it’s a detail. This model is entirely built in France. It is assembled in Maubeuge, its engine is manufactured in Cléon, and its battery in Ruitz and soon in Douai. In addition, 75% of suppliers are located within a 300-kilometre radius of Renault’s Electricity hub.

With its appealing design, decent range and generous interior space, the new Renault 4 E-Tech successfully combines the past and the future. It is aimed at families and urban drivers who are concerned about their carbon footprint… and their style.

In terms of pricing, Renault is keeping the same names as for the R5, with three versions: Evolution, Techno and Iconic. Above all, with government subsidies, it remains in a good price range. Specifically, the 120 hp (40 kWh) Evolution version starts at £28,911, while the 150 hp (52 kWh) version starts at £31,812. The better-equipped Iconic trim is available from £35,680. The Techno trim is only available in 150 hp (52 kWh) at a price of £33,746.