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Renault has won a trio of awards at the What Car? Awards 2026, with the Renault 5 E-Tech electric, Renault 4 E-Tech electric and Renault Clio all recognised by the expert judging panel for their standout abilities in some of the most competitive segments of the market.
Leading the trio of victories at the prestigious What Car? Awards 2026, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric was crowned ‘Best Small Electric Car’, after drawing praise for its affordability and engaging driving experience.
As Steve Huntingford, Editor of What Car? explained: “You might be drawn to the Renault 5 for the way it looks, but this is an EV that you can buy with your head as well as your heart, because it offers grown-up driving manners, plenty of range and a smartly finished interior – and all for a very tempting price. It was our overall Car of the Year last year, and it remains the best small electric car on sale in 2026.”
The Renault 4 E-Tech electric added to the brand’s success by winning ‘Best Small Electric SUV for Value’, recognised for making electric mobility accessible without compromising on space, comfort or technology.
Huntingford added: “With the Renault 4, you get nimble and poised handling, an intuitive Google-based infotainment system, and one of the biggest boots in the small SUV class. But best of all, it lets you have all this for a bargain price – particularly after you’ve factored in the Government EV grant, with it being one of the few models to qualify for the full £3,750.”
Rounding out the brand’s success, the Renault Clio was named ‘Best Small Car to Drive’, reinforcing its reputation for delivering one of the most rewarding driving experiences in the supermini class.
Speaking on behalf of the judges, Huntingford continued: “The Clio feels nippy in town and doesn’t get breathless on faster roads. But irrespective of speed, it’s simply more fun to drive than rivals. The steering is direct and accurate, while relatively firm suspension keeps body lean in check. Yet the Clio is still a comfortable car, because the ride is settled and controlled.”
Accepting the awards, Adam Wood, Managing Director, Renault UK, said: “What Car? is known for rigorous, real-world testing, so recognition across three very different categories underlines that our electric and hybrid strategies are working. These awards show how Renault is delivering cars that make sense in everyday use – whether that’s an affordable electric supermini, a small car that’s genuinely engaging to drive, or an electric SUV that offers outstanding value.”
The Renault 5 E-Tech electric brings an iconic nameplate into the electric era with contemporary packaging and clever technology. Highlights include the OpenR Link infotainment system with Google built-in, a refined chassis tuned for fun and agility, and practical charging features designed for everyday use. Depending on the model, it offers up to 252 miles (WLTP) driving range and can charge from 15–80% in around 30 minutes. Prices start from £21,495 OTR after the UK Government’s Electric Car Grant.
Packed with personality and practicality, the Renault 4 E-Tech electric proves that accessible electric cars can also be versatile and enjoyable. With a long wheelbase, generous rear passenger space and up to a 420-litre boot (expanding to 1,405 litres), it is designed with everyday life in mind. As with the Renault 5, new ‘+’ versions feature batteries from Renault’s Douai gigafactory and qualify for the full £3,750 Electric Car Grant, with prices starting from £23,445 OTR. A range of up to 247 miles (WLTP) and rapid charging capability further enhance its credentials.
Recently updated for 2026, the Renault Clio combines a streamlined line-up with improved value, comfort and technology. Available with efficient petrol and full hybrid E-Tech powertrains, Clio delivers low running costs alongside one of the most balanced and enjoyable drives in its class. With prices starting from £17,995 OTR, it remains one of the UK’s most accessible and capable small cars.
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