Renault 5 EV updated: Best-seller gets longer range and new colours - including a nod to a nineties hot hatch

The Renault 5, the only electric car on sale with a waiting list stretching to as much as six months, has received a series of updates to make it even more appealing.Just 24 months after its debut and becoming an instant EV sensation, the R5 E-Tech is getting revised battery chemistry, aerodynamic improvements and a host of new personalisation options.It also gains new colours, including a paint scheme inspired by Renault's iconic 1990s hot hatch, the Clio Williams; the combination of metallic sports blue bodywork and gold wheels is set to be a favourite with enthusiasts.Since the R5 launched in 2024, the electric supermini segment has exploded with new retro-inspired rivals.These include Fiat's Grande Panda, Volkswagen's forthcoming ID.Polo and Citroen's planned revival of the 2CV, which is expected to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in October.Yet the Renault 5 remains the one buyers want most.The funky French EV topped the sales charts in July and Renault has delivered more than 17,000 examples to British driveways since the car debuted two years ago.Order books are so full that desirable specifications have waiting times of around 12 weeks, while the range-topping Roland-Garros version can take closer to six months to arrive.As it celebrates two years on sale, Renault's best-selling R5 E-Tech has been updated with revised battery chemistry, aerodynamic improvements and more personalisation options There's also a range of new colours, including a paint job paying tribute to Renault's iconic Clio Williams hot hatch from the 1990s, replicating its metallic sports blue body and gold wheels Battery and range changesThe entry-level Urban Range R5 will now offer 196 miles of range, up three miles from before, using its battery pack.The model switches from a 40kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery to Renault's smaller, more energy-dense and cheaper 36.5kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) pack.However, charging speeds are slightly reduced, with maximum rates of 80kW on a public charger and 6.6kW on a home wallbox.The most popular 52kWh Comfort Range version receives a more significant boost, with official range increasing to 267 miles from 255 miles.Renault 5 models with the 52kWh battery - the most popular Comfort Range version - has received a range boost to 267 miles from 255 miles New customisation options include a red or grey '5' decal for the roofNew personalisation optionsRenault buyers will be able to choose a new shade of red that bears a striking resemblance to its sister model. The Nissan Micra EV – which comes in a tone of 'Rebel Red' – shares the Renault platform and batteries and is also built in France.Customers can also specify a grey roof or red '5' roof sticker, while optional gold wheels will be available on Techno and Iconic trims.Inside, the yellow seats previously fitted to the Iconic trim have been replaced by blue and grey upholstery. There have also been interior updates, with the yellow accents currently used throughout the cabin swapped for a grey-blue finish Renault has not confirmed when the updated R5 will arrive in Britain, though a Renault UK spokesperson said the changes are currently 'under review for the UK' Tech changes – inside and outThere are only a handful of technology updates.The biggest change is the removal of the Multi-Sense drive-mode selector. In its place is a Smart function that automatically adjusts the driving mode based on throttle inputs.Drivers can still manually switch between Sport, Eco, Comfort and Individual modes via the touchscreen or voice controls.Renault has also upgraded the wireless smartphone charger, claiming it can add up to 50 per cent battery charge to a compatible phone in an hour. The Renault 5 has truly bucked the EV trend. While most electric cars are leased or snapped up using salary sacrifice schemes, around 60% of UK owners have bought them outright Renault 5 – the EV Britons actually want to OWNThe Renault 5 has defied the odds to become one of the few electric cars attracting large numbers of private buyers rather than relying heavily on fleet and business sales.Around three in five UK Renault 5 registrations have gone to private retail customers, and it consistently tops the charts for showroom purchases rather than fleet acquisitions.Last month it was the UK's best-selling electric car.Its popularity stems from its eye-catching retro design, engaging driving dynamics, high-tech interior, useful range of between 193 and 256 miles, and relatively accessible price tag of £21,495 to £23,945.In a market flooded with near-identical electric SUVs, the Renault 5 E-Tech stands out as a vibrant bolt of originality.Adam Wood, Renault UK's managing director, says its success proves that consumers will buy desirable cars regardless of their powertrain.'Renault 5 captures that perfectly. It appeals to both the head and the heart, combining standout design with everyday affordability,' he said.Renault has yet to confirm when the updated R5 will reach UK showrooms, with a spokesman saying the changes remain 'under review for the UK'.