The Return of a Classic: The New Renault 5 Electric Model
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A Nostalgic Journey
I vividly recall the day back in 1976 when a striking yellow car zipped up the gravel driveway leading to our home. My father was thrilled to test drive a fresh-out-of-the-factory Renault 5, and as a curious seven-year-old, I was invited along for the ride. Having been raised with a Citroën 2CV, this first-generation Renault felt like pure magic—a blend of stylish design, speed, and ample space that captivated me instantly.
Today, my dream car would undoubtedly be the elusive Renault 5 Turbo; however, after an impressive production run of 24 years, its lineage ended back in favor of the Renault Clio introduced in 1990.
A Modern Revival
Fast forward to today—the classic shape has made a comeback with an exciting twist: it’s electric! The new Renault 5 has officially been crowned European Car of the Year for 2025—a nod not only to its modern capabilities but also to its iconic past. While I adore that vibrant yellow hue reminiscent of my childhood memories with my dad’s test drive, options abound in various colors. This revival resonates strongly with many enthusiasts who fondly remember what the original model represented.
This accolade is shared proudly alongside its sibling model—the Alpine A290.
“The Renault 5 has earned its place as The Car of the Year for 2025! This compact retro electric vehicle emerged victorious in Brussels during this year’s prominent motor show opening.”
“Alongside it stands the Alpine A290,” they noted.
“In second place was Kia EV3 which previously claimed ‘Car of the Year’ status in Denmark last November.”
“This marks only the second time in history that we have witnessed such esteemed recognition bestowed upon vehicles designed solely as electric.”
“This year marks another milestone—the jury comprised over sixty automotive journalists from twenty-three different nations chose their favorites once again.”
A Word From Industry Experts
Søren W. Rasmussen—the automotive technical editor at FDM—who presided over this year’s jury selection process commented:
“With options now available around DKK200k ($27,500), consumers can access well-performing electric vehicles like never before; starting at DKK185k ($25k) for base models while going up towards DKK230k ($32k) on premium trims!”
“So too did last year’s winner follow suit through popular praises received!”
Electric Vehicle Trends In Europe
The enthusiasm surrounding electric vehicles is surging within Denmark; yet sales trends across Europe are more tempered by comparison—alluded by this year’s finalists reflecting just three fully electrical contenders out from seven cars total vying reckoning!
“It seems quite fitting indeed that accolades would be directed towards yet another plug-in option since conditions vary significantly amongst EU nations regarding adoption rates—the tide is turning though driven by both policymakers & manufacturers aiming firmly onward toward greener builds!” said Rasmussen.
The Jury’s Final Scores:
- Renault 5 / Alpine A290 (electric only) — 353 points
- Kia EV3 (electric only) — 291 points
- Citroën C3 / ë-C3 (petrol/electric hybrid) — 215 points
- Hyundai Instar (electric only) — 172 points
- Dacia Duster (petrol/hybrid) — 168 points
- Cupra Terramar (petrol/hybrid)—165 points
- Alfa Romeo Junior (petrol/electric hybrid)—136 points
An Enthusiast’s Choice?
I find it fascinating how much excitement surrounds such an incredible automobile—and if I were ever faced with replacing my Tesla Model maintainence fee ’till’ now remains unneeded thus far…I wouldn’t hesitate selecting this beauty! Its anticipated driving experience ignites joy even prior behind steering wheel alone without firsthand trial races down lanes ahead truly awaits adventure unfolding…Oh wait….my daughter might soon require wheels herself…so let’s see where things land!
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