Renault reveals UK prices for the new Renault 4

The automotive world loves a good comeback story, and Renault is betting its latest electric offering, the revamped Renault 4, will be exactly that. This isn't just another boring compact electric car hitting the already busy UK market; it's a nameplate dripping with history, now reimagined for an electric future. With a starting price designed to undercut key rivals, the new Renault 4 EV blends retro charm with modern practicality, but can it give other electric cars a serious run for their money?

Renault's design team clearly had a well-loved blueprint on their desks when sketching the new Renault 4. The vehicle pays homage to its iconic 1961 predecessor with several distinct retro touches. You'll spot the classic three-part rear lights and those three sculpted lines along the bottom of the doors. For those feeling particularly nostalgic, an optional cloth roof will be available.

But this electric car isn't stuck in the past. Renault calls its front the world's first one-piece illuminated grille, complete with a backlit Renault emblem – a first for the brand (and mighty expensive in case of an even smallest ding). Size-wise, the new Renault 4 slots neatly into the competitive electric crossover segment. It measures 163 inches long, 70.9 inches wide, and 61.8 inches tall.

These dimensions put the Renault 4 in direct competition with popular electric cars like the Mini Aceman, Vauxhall Mokka, Volkswagen ID.3, and Jeep Avenger. Renault is banking on the 4's unique blend of adventurous design, usability, and that tempting starting price to carve out its niche.

The Renault 4 shares a significant amount of its DNA with the Renault 5. Both electric cars use Renault's Ampr Small EV platform. UK buyers will have a couple of powertrain options. The entry-level version comes with a front-mounted electric motor producing 120 horsepower, paired with a 40 kWh battery. This combination is expected to deliver a range of around 190 miles.

If you want to travel a bit further between charges, a more powerful 150-horsepower motor is available, coupled with a larger 52 kWh battery, pushing the range up to an estimated 250 miles. When it's time to plug in, the Renault 4 can accept charging speeds of up to 100 kW. A very convenient new feature debuting on this model is a one-pedal driving mode, with paddles to adjust the regenerative braking level, a system Renault plans to introduce across its entire electric vehicle lineup.

The Renault 4 will launch with three trim levels. The entry-point is the 'Evolution' trim, starting at $35,610. Standard features include 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, quilted cloth upholstery, a 10-inch central touchscreen, and wireless smartphone mirroring.

Stepping up to the 'Techno' trim, priced at $38,248, adds a Google-powered EV route planner, a wireless phone charger, two USB-C ports for rear passengers, adaptive cruise control, hands-free park assist, a 48-color ambient lighting system, and part-leatherette upholstery.

Topping the range is the 'Iconic' trim at $40,887, which gets bespoke black wheels, an electronic trunk lid, heating for the front seats and steering wheel, distinctive yellow interior trimmings, and an enhanced suite of driver assistance systems.

Prospective buyers in the UK can mark their calendars - order books open on July 1st for those with early-access 'R-Pass' privileges, and then to the general public on July 15th.

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