Peter Lyon
February 26, 2026
The Renault 5 E-Tech electric has been crowned overall UK Car of the Year 2026, adding the UKCOTY awards’ highest honour to its earlier success in the ‘Small Car of the Year’ category.
The same model was also awarded World Champion and Best Car of the Year in the 2024-25 Best Cars of the Year awards staged in late 2024, at a ceremony at the British Motor Show in Farnborough, UK.
Voted for by an independent panel of more than 30 experienced automotive journalists from across the UK, the UKCOTY award recognises the standout new cars on sale today. Having already impressed judges in the small car class, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric emerged as the clear overall winner after final voting against the other category champions.
Explaining why the Renault 5 E-Tech electric secured the top honour, John Challen, co-chairman of the UK Car of the Year Awards and editor of UK Driver magazine, said: “With its retro styling, the new Renault 5 tugs at the heart strings of those drivers who experienced the original. By adding an immensely fun and entertaining drive, desirability and affordability to that nostalgic element, the French favourite pulled off a resounding victory to be crowned UK Car of the Year 2026.”
The overall title reinforces the Renault 5 E-Tech electric’s position as one of the most significant new electric vehicles to arrive on the UK market. Judges praised its ability to combine retro-inspired design with modern usability, everyday efficiency and a genuinely engaging driving experience – qualities that have resonated equally strongly with retail and fleet customers.
Adam Wood, Managing Director, Renault UK, said: “With so many experienced automotive journalists voting for R5 as the UK Car of the Year, the award is something we’re very proud of. It has really hit the spot with retail and fleet customers, and with 2026 being the first full year of sales, plus it being one of the very few EVs to qualify for the full £3,750 Electric Car Grant, R5 is well on its way to being a very common sight on our roads.”
The Renault 5 E-Tech electric brings an iconic nameplate into the electric era with contemporary packaging and advanced technology designed around real-world needs. Highlights include the OpenR Link infotainment system with Google built-in, a chassis tuned to deliver agility and comfort in equal measure, and practical charging solutions for everyday use. Depending on version, it offers up to 252 miles (WLTP) driving range and can charge from 15–80% in around 30 minutes.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
And thanks to a half decent grant, this EV can now be purchased for a reasonable fee. Now available with the full £3,750 Electric Car Grant, prices for the Renault 5 E-Tech electric start from £21,495 on-the-road.
