Renault has confirmed its smash-hit 4 and 5 will be updated next year, with next-gen motors promising up to 252 miles of range.
The ‘Gen 2 Evo’ motors debuted on the upcoming Twingo, and will replace the externally excited-synchronous (EESM) units powering the R4 and the R5.
Currently, the R5 Urban Range has a 121bhp EESM paired with a 40kWh battery, while the Comfort Range gets 148bhp and a 52kWh pack. The slightly larger R4 is only available in the UK with the latter configuration.
These powertrains provide the Renault 5 with a range of either 192 or 252 miles, while the Renault 4 comes up slightly short at 250 miles from a single charge. Renault has yet to confirm the range and power figures for both updated models.
The updated R4 and R5 will arrive at the end of this year or the start of next. The French manufacturer claims that the improved efficiency and power are derived from the Gen 2 Evo’s inverter and reducers. Renault’s latest battery tech will ensure the competitiveness of the R4 and the R5 in the hotly contested electric B-segment.
The incoming Volkswagen ID Polo improves on the existing R5 in terms of range, travelling anywhere from 204 to 283 miles on a single charge. Skoda’s new Epiq, one of the R4’s main challengers, packs a 272-mile range depending on powertrain.
No changes will be made to the R5 or the R4’s much-loved design. Since both cars arrived in 2024 and 2025 respectively, they have scooped numerous awards, including World Car of the Year, UK Car of the Year, and New EV of the Year.
Despite a comprehensive facelift only recently, a next-gen Megane is scheduled to arrive in 2028, along with a new Scenic. Renault is reportedly already working on a third-generation battery, which will be fitted to both cars. The new Twingo will make its way to the UK towards the end of this year.
