Renault 5 E‑Tech Gets More Range and New Tech Without Price Rise
Renault has refreshed its popular 5 E‑Tech Electric with improved aerodynamics, battery electronics and a new Smartmode driving system, boosting range by up to nine miles. The update also adds a magnetic cooling charger, upgraded emergency call, and Google Gemini AI assistance, all without raising…
By Felo News Desk · Published
Renault has announced a 2027 refresh for its best‑selling 5 E‑Tech Electric, delivering more range and a host of new tech features while keeping the starting price unchanged at £21,495 on the road. The updated model retains the four‑model lineup—Evolution, Techno+, Iconic Five+ and Roland Garros+—but introduces aerodynamic tweaks, battery electronics upgrades and a new Smartmode driving system that automatically adjusts performance settings.
More Miles Through Aerodynamics and Battery Tweaks
One of the headline improvements comes from a subtle redesign of the car’s body and door mirrors. By lowering the body and refining the mirror shape, Renault has reduced drag, allowing the vehicle to glide more efficiently through the air. Combined with updated battery electronics, these changes increase the maximum claimed range for both battery options.
The entry‑level Evolution model still uses the Urban Range configuration, pairing a 40 kWh battery with a 118 bhp motor for a claimed 197‑mile range. The higher‑trim Comfort Range models now boast a 52 kWh battery and a 148 bhp motor, pushing the maximum range to 259 miles—a nine‑mile boost over the previous version. This extra mileage is especially valuable for drivers who rely on the 5 for daily commutes and longer trips.
Smartmode: A New Way to Drive
Renault’s new Smartmode setting takes the driver’s workload down by automatically switching between eco, comfort and sport modes based on driving behaviour. When the car senses aggressive acceleration, it will shift to sport, offering sharper responses; as the vehicle slows down in town or on a quiet road, it reverts to eco to conserve energy. Drivers can still manually choose a mode via the central touchscreen or voice command, but the auto‑switching feature means they no longer need to toggle settings manually.
Phone Charging and Connectivity Enhancements
Inside the cabin, the 5 now features a magnetic wireless charger that incorporates a cooling system to keep phones from overheating during fast charging. Using the Qi2 standard, the charger can replenish up to 50 % of a compatible phone’s battery in just one hour. The emergency call system has also been updated to support newer 4G and 5G networks, ensuring reliable connectivity in more areas.
Renault is also adding Google Gemini AI to the car’s existing Google Assistant framework via an optional wireless software update. This integration allows occupants to engage in more natural, conversational interactions with the assistant, including interrupting answers or switching languages mid‑conversation. The AI is built into the touchscreen’s existing Google technology, providing a seamless user experience.
Interior and Exterior Styling Updates
Beyond performance and tech, Renault is refreshing the 5’s aesthetic options. The Iconic Five+ trim will swap its previous yellow upholstery for a mottled blue design, while other trims receive minor material and stitching updates. New exterior colours—Flame Red and Shadow Grey—will be available later in the year, and buyers can add custom sticker packs to personalize their vehicles further. Midnight Blue cars in Techno+ and Iconic Five+ trims will now feature a contrasting red roofline.
Pricing, Grants and Availability
Despite all the upgrades, the base price remains at £21,495 on the road, and the 5 continues to qualify for the full £3,750 Electric Car Grant. Order books are now open for the 2027 model, giving buyers the chance to secure a refreshed vehicle with enhanced range and technology without paying a premium.
Renault’s strategy of improving range and tech while holding price steady reflects a broader industry trend of making electric vehicles more competitive and accessible. For owners of the 5, the refresh promises a smoother, longer‑driving experience and a more connected cabin, all without the need to upgrade to a new model.
As the electric market grows, such incremental updates can keep a model relevant and desirable, offering customers tangible benefits without a steep price hike. The 2027 Renault 5 E‑Tech Electric is poised to maintain its position as a popular choice for city drivers and families alike.
Key facts
- Aerodynamic and battery upgrades boost range by up to nine miles
- Smartmode auto‑switches between eco, comfort and sport
- New magnetic cooling charger can top up phones quickly
- Google Gemini AI offers natural voice interaction
- Price remains at £21,495 with full Electric Car Grant
- New interior colours and exterior paint options added
Why it matters
The refresh demonstrates how automakers can extend a vehicle’s appeal through targeted engineering and tech upgrades, delivering more value to consumers without raising costs. It also highlights the importance of battery efficiency and driver‑assist technologies in the evolving EV landscape.
Frequently asked questions
Will the price of the updated Renault 5 E‑Tech increase?
No, the starting price stays at £21,495 on the road.
What is the new Smartmode feature?
Smartmode automatically switches between eco, comfort and sport driving modes based on how the car is being driven.
Does the new charger support fast charging for phones?
Yes, the magnetic charger uses the Qi2 standard and can recharge up to 50% of a compatible phone’s battery in an hour.
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Renault 5 gets more range and tech – without a price rise”
