Renault 4 revealed as cut-price retro-inspired EV crossover
The new Renault 4 has been revealed as a retro-futuristic electric crossover that will arrive next year with a starting price of less than £30,000.
Positioned as the second model in Renault's 'Iconic Family', it joins the smaller 5 supermini and will eventually sit alongside the new Twingo EV: a retro supermini destined to launch in 2026.
At 4140mm long, 1800mm wide, and 1570mm tall the 4 is 600mm longer, 100mm wider, and 70mm taller than the smaller 5, with a 120mm longer rear overhang. This means that it sits above the 5 like the current Captur sits above the Clio, and serves as the car of choice for those who need more practicality.
Set to rival cars like the Mini Aceman, Jeep Avenger and Volkswagen ID 3 the new 4 majors on usability and an adventurous design that will likely appeal to 'lifestyle' customers who enjoy going on outdoor adventures.
That design, like the 5, stays relatively faithful to the 4Ever Trophy concept shown in 2022.
Carried over to production is a one-piece illuminated front grille, a roof-mounted mini spoiler, and three lines positioned on the door sills. Notably, the roof can be specified in cloth.
At the back, you get trapezoidal rear quarter windows, three-part rear lights, as well as a chunky plastic bumper befitting its 'adventurous' credentials.
With regard to its practicality, it gets a boot that is 420 litres in size with the seats in their normal position, and the load lip is just 607mm off the ground, which is quite low for a crossover. Renault claims this makes it 100mm lower than rivals, and it means the tailgate can be used as a seat.
The boot also features a number of cubbies, including a removable 35-litre underfloor bucket which can be used to store anything from dirty footwear or charging cables.
On top of its practical features, Renault has given the 4 a generous amount of new technology in the same vein as the smaller 5. It gets the same 10.1in digital instrument display, as well as a 10in infotainment screen with Google integration.
Underneath, while it shares the same Ampr Small platform with the 5, its wheelbase has been extended by 80mm. Renault says the pair will share 68% of their technical makeups. That includes the motors and battery.
The 4 will be offered with either a 118bhp front-mounted motor with a 40kWh battery and 190 miles of range, or a 148bhp motor with a 52kWh battery and a 250-mile range. It can be charged at speeds up to 100kW. Notably, it weighs just 1410kg, which means it should be quite nippy to drive.
It is the first Reanult to launch with one-pedal driving mode - a function that will later be rolled-out across the line-up. Paddles can be used to operate the regenerative braking level.
Renault is also set to launch a new customisation programme with the 4, which includes an array of accessories including exterior and interior stickers.
