Renault’s latest throwback to its golden era comes in the form of the Renault 4 E-Tech (we’ll call it just the 4). It is a tribute to the iconic 4L which was Renault’s answer to the Citroën 2CV. First revealed at the 2024 Paris Motor Show, the new 4 brings a modern twist to its legendary predecessor, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge technology.
A Classic Design with a Contemporary Twist
At first glance, the Renault 4 E-Tech is unmistakably inspired by the original 4L, with its horizontal bonnet, vertical grille, and signature spherical headlights.
Renault has cleverly repurposed design cues from the past, such as the unique rear-quarter windows and the sloping tail, while adding modern touches like a single-piece polycarbonate grille and illuminated accents. The rear of the car carries over the original’s boxy practicality, with a rear hatch extending down to the bumper, providing easier access to the boot space.
However, what sets the new 4 apart is its increased dimensions compared to the Renault 5 sibling. It’s 220mm longer and 81mm taller, giving it a more rugged and versatile appeal. Additionally, the plastic canvas roof, which can be opened fully or partially with Renault’s virtual assistant ‘Reno,’ adds a playful element reminiscent of the original's quirky spirit.
This retro yet new design language from Renault is SO good. Just combines the shiny new stuff of today with lovely bits of the past. They did it with the 5 and have done it with the 4 as well. Kudos to Renault!
Intelligent Interior
Inside, the 4 is just as customizable as it is functional. The Techno trim level offers an option for a jeans-themed interior, a nod to Pierre Dreyfus' famous comparison of the original 4 to a pair of jeans for its adaptability.
There’s also a dual horizontal screen setup consisting of a 7-inch digital driving display and a 10-inch multimedia screen for seamless connectivity, with Google services and ChatGPT integration to handle over 200 different queries. And boy the screens and their animations look good. See the images and you’ll know what we’re talking about.
Practicality hasn't been overlooked. The new modular boot boasts 420 liters of space with extra 23.3 liters scattered throughout the cabin for smaller items. Thanks to its stretched wheelbase, there’s more legroom for passengers, and the interior layout can be adjusted to accommodate various cargo and passenger needs.
Renault claims up to 670 (!) possible combinations with the 4’s various stitching, color options, and trim levels like Evolution, Techno, and Iconic. Yeah, this really is Renault we’re talking about here and not Bentley or Rolls-Royce. Such bespoke combos on a Renault is just beyond belief.
Electric Powertrain
Underneath its retro exterior, the 4 E-Tech is powered by the AmpR platform, shared with the Renault 5.
Buyers can choose between two battery options: a 52kWh unit delivering 150 bhp and a range of 250 miles, or a smaller 40kWh battery offering 120 bhp and 186 miles of range. Both setups come with V2L/V2G charging capabilities, making the 4 as practical in the city as it is on longer road trips.
The car’s performance isn’t just about efficiency. With a weight of 1,410kg, the 4 isn’t very heavy going by EV standards. It accelerates from 0-62 mph in 8.5 seconds with the larger motor, and Renault assures that this electric crossover will be just as fun as its smaller sibling, the R5.
Modern Safety and Driver Assistance
Equipped with up to 26 driver aids and Level 2 ADAS, the 4 offers modern safety to match its classic appeal. These features, combined with the car's high-strength chassis and rugged design, make the 4 suitable for both urban and adventurous driving.
The Renault 4 is set to go on sale in Europe next year. No details have been revealed about the car’s UAE launch yet.
