Renault 4 E-Tech: A Bold Electric Revival of the Classic Hatchback SUV Hybrid

The iconic Renault 4, a vehicle that captured hearts for decades, has undergone a modern electric transformation. Renowned for being one of the first truly popular hatchbacks, the Renault 4 left a lasting legacy with over eight million units sold, making it the fourth best-selling car of all time. Today, the Renault 4 E-Tech brings this legendary car into the future, but the question remains: is it a hatchback, or does its SUV-like features push it into a new category? Let’s take a closer look at the all-electric rebirth of this classic.

The All-Electric Renault 4 E-Tech: A Hatchback or SUV?

The Renault 4 E-Tech has a lot in common with the original, but this modern version blurs the lines between a traditional hatchback and an SUV. Its chunky, rugged styling, complete with protective plastic trim and a tall stance, may make it seem like an SUV at first glance. In fact, it shares a similar height with the Renault Captur, but with even more ground clearance. Despite these traits, its proportions and general character stay true to the original Renault 4’s hatchback roots.

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While its modern-day reinvention is undeniably exciting, it keeps elements that made the original so loved, like practicality and versatility. Think of the Renault 4 E-Tech as a bridge between classic hatchback design and contemporary SUV-like features.

How Much Will the Renault 4 E-Tech Cost?

Pricing for the Renault 4 E-Tech in Europe is expected to start just under the €30,000 mark (around A$52,000). With electric cars like the Renault Megane E-Tech priced at approximately $54,990 in Australia, the Renault 4 E-Tech is expected to fall in a similar price range once it potentially hits Australian shores.

While there is no official confirmation about its arrival in Australia, Renault has shown interest in bringing both the Renault 4 and 5 to the region in the future. The Renault 4’s return to Australia would be quite symbolic, as it was once produced at the Renault factory in Heidelberg, Victoria, from 1962 to 1966.

Interior Features: A Blend of Comfort and Innovation

Inside the Renault 4 E-Tech, you’ll find a digital experience very similar to its cousin, the Renault 5 E-Tech, with a few tweaks to increase comfort and space. The base model offers a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, while the higher trims come with a larger 10-inch display. The central 10-inch touchscreen runs Renault’s Google-based infotainment system, providing an intuitive interface for navigation, media, and more. Physical buttons for climate control add a practical touch to the tech-heavy cabin.

Notably, the Renault 4 E-Tech offers more room than the Renault 5, especially in the back seat. Taller adults can expect more legroom and headspace in the rear, which was a challenge in the smaller Renault 5. The boot is a highlight, boasting 420 liters of cargo space, which surpasses many direct competitors. It also includes a clever 55-litre storage compartment under the floor, designed for things like charging cables.

What’s Under the Bonnet? The Electric Power of the Renault 4 E-Tech

The Renault 4 E-Tech comes with two battery options. The entry-level model features a 40kWh battery with a 90kW electric motor, offering a theoretical range of up to 308km. A higher-spec “Comfort Range” model comes equipped with a 52kWh battery and a 110kW motor, providing a more impressive 409km of range.

The performance is adequate for most urban and highway needs, with a claimed 0-100km/h time of 8.3 seconds. The vehicle’s energy consumption is around 15.1kWh/100km in official tests, though real-world figures suggest a slightly better efficiency.

For those concerned about long drives, the E-Tech delivers a reliable real-world range of around 360km, though high-speed driving may reduce that distance. The car’s Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature also makes it a great option for powering other devices on the go.

Driving Experience: How Does the Renault 4 E-Tech Feel?

On the road, the Renault 4 E-Tech offers a smooth, comfortable drive. Built on the same “AmpR Small” platform as the Renault 5, it shares many features, including a light steering system and well-damped suspension. While it may not offer the same level of driving excitement as the sportier Renault 5, it is still plenty enjoyable to drive, especially on winding country roads.

The suspension is firm, but it delivers a stable, controlled ride, absorbing most road imperfections well. That said, the high driving position and relatively low visibility in urban areas could be drawbacks for taller drivers. But for those who prefer a more relaxed driving experience, the Renault 4 E-Tech excels in offering just that.

Safety Features of the Renault 4 E-Tech

While the Renault 4 E-Tech has not yet been officially rated by safety organizations like ANCAP or Euro NCAP, it comes equipped with a suite of safety features. These include forward collision warning, lane centering, rear park assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality. Renault’s commitment to safety is evident, though we’ll need to wait for official crash tests to know its exact rating.

Running Costs and Efficiency

Charging the Renault 4 E-Tech is incredibly cost-effective, with a full charge potentially costing as little as $8.32 if you’re on a 16c-per-kWh electricity rate at home. The car’s efficient electric powertrain also means you’ll spend far less on running costs compared to traditional petrol cars.

Renault offers an impressive warranty for the Renault 4 E-Tech, including five years of coverage with unlimited mileage for most models, along with an eight-year/160,000km warranty for the battery. Thanks for reading! For more updates and insights, visit us at newsbaazi.com. Stay tuned for more!

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