The production version of the new Renault 5 has been revealed early, with official photos surfacing online on a number of social media channels just before its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show on February 26th. Few details remained under wraps for the reborn subcompact hatch, poised to rival the electric Mini Cooper. Patent images from the World Intellectual Property Organization had already provided a fairly good idea of how the all-electric R5 has transitioned from concept to reality.

The production iteration of the new Renault 5 remains loyal to its conceptual sibling from 2021, faithfully echoing its silhouette and most styling nuances, right down to the wheels. Yet, discerning eyes will catch a few sly differentiators. These include a more understated Renault emblem upfront, conventional door mirrors and handles, and refined lights at both ends.

 

One of the standout features on the exterior is a novel charge indicator placed on the top of the hood, drawing inspiration from the signature intakes of the original Renault 5. Given the electric nature of this new sub-compact model, Renault’s designers utilized this space for a graphic panel that illuminates whenever the vehicle is connected to a charger, displaying the current charge level. When the battery reaches full capacity, the LED display takes the shape of the number 5.

The images also reveal the lighting units of the R5. The headlights feature different LED graphics compared to the concept. Renault says that the black dots in the middle of each lens resemble the pupil of the human eye, inspired by a vintage ad of the original 5. One more nod to the classic Renault 5 is evident in the vertically-mounted taillights, connected by a black trim piece. These clusters even feature subtle extensions from the side panels, aimed at enhancing the aerodynamic performance of the hatchback by minimizing air turbulence. While the aerodynamic impact is likely minimal, these protruding elements do look cool.

Another standout feature are the pronounced rear fenders which were inspired by the famed R5 Turbo, giving the EV the appearance of a hot hatch. This means Alpine won’t have to exert much effort to spice up the design of its own performance-focused version. This time around, we also get our first look inside the new Renault 5, where the interior blends retro elements and vibrant colors reminiscent of the original model with a modern twist. Highlighting the dashboard is a twin-screen digital cockpit with a large Google-powered infotainment display. Complementing this setup is a multifunction steering wheel, complete with a prominent start button.

 

The French automaker had already confirmed that the fully electric supermini will bear the E-Tech moniker, and they have also disclosed some details about its technology. The new 5 E-Tech will be manufactured in France under the newly established Ampere unit within the Renault Group. Measuring 3.92 meters (154.3 inches) in length, this city car will be the first to debut the new AmpR Small platform (formerly known as the CMF-BEV), equipped with a multi-link rear suspension. Renault has officially confirmed two battery pack options, offering capacities of either 40 kWh or 52 kWh. The larger battery pack will be available right from the launch, providing a WLTP range of up to 400 kilometers (249 miles). In the future, it will support V2G (vehicle-to-grid) technology, allowing owners to sell energy back to the grid.

Customers in select markets, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Belgium, and the Netherlands, will have access to the so-called R5 R Pass. Priced at €150 ($164), this pass grants them priority in the order placement process, ensuring they are among the first to receive delivery of the electric vehicle. Additionally, all pass holders will receive a scale model of the Renault 5 E-Tech immediately after its official debut. Renault has said that the starting price for the 5 E-Tech will hover around €25,000 (about $27,300 at current exchange rates), positioning it squarely in competition with several current and upcoming models. It’s expected to match the pricing of the VW ID.2 while undercutting the Peugeot E-208. However, it does come at a slightly higher price than the newly introduced Citroen e-C3.