Should you buy one?

Ideally, you should buy two – in different finishes using the circa-200 different ways that Renault says you’ll be able to spec and personalise the 5. Then we’d all get to see this rather special little electric car on the road as much as possible. It sweeps to the top of our best small electric car rankings thanks to its many talents and keen pricing.

Okay, so it’s not faultless. The driving range is a touch disappointing, rear space could be better, the stalks are an annoyingly un-ergonomic feature in an otherwise refreshingly common-sense interior, and some may wish for greater versatility with the brake regen. But otherwise, it’s very hard to fault the little Renault, which really does feel like it’s breaking new ground by bringing real desirability and ‘want one’ factor to a very affordable, practical, everyday electric car.

What we like

The Renault 5 is well-built and perky to drive, has a tastefully appointed interior and some neat features including V2L, V2G, a standard heat pump and the ability to tow a 500kg trailer. It’s also fantastic value, which is astonishing given the overall quality and desirable design.

What we don’t like

The ride is harsh, brake regeneration could be more flexible, and the real-world range has proved rather underwhelming in our testing so far. We can also forgive the 5 for its rear space on account of its size, but more room for feet under the front seats would make it far more bearable for adults. Some rivals have longer warranties, too.