
Renault has secured an impressive four category wins in the EcoCar Electrified Top 50 Awards, led by a commanding double victory for Renault Rafale.
The flagship SUV coupé was named both ‘Best Hybrid Large SUV’, for the second consecutive year, and ‘Best Plug-in Hybrid Large SUV’, while the Renault 5 E-Tech electric retained its ‘Best Electric Small Car’ title. There was also success for the Renault Clio, after the ever-popular supermini was recognised as ‘Best Hybrid Small Car’.
The annual EcoCar Electrified Top 50 Awards celebrate the best electrified vehicles on sale in the UK, recognising the strongest electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid models across every major market segment.
This year, the judges were particularly impressed by Renault Rafale’s blend of performance, efficiency and design, firmly establishing it as Renault’s flagship electrified SUV. Available with both full hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, Rafale combines standout performance with low running costs, alongside a premium cabin crafted using high-quality and sustainable materials.
Highlighting these qualities, Ian Robertson, Editor and Publisher of Diesel&EcoCar Magazine, said: “Rafale is Renault’s boldest statement in years. It’s a sleek, flagship SUV coupé that earns both its Best Hybrid Large SUV and Best Plug-in Hybrid Large SUV accolades. The E-Tech powertrain delivers brisk performance with low emissions, and the upmarket interior is amongst the finest in Renault's history. With striking looks, impressive dynamics and a cabin rich with sustainable materials, the Rafale signals a new era of ambition for the French brand.”
Renault Rafale is available in a choice of techno, techno esprit Alpine, iconic esprit Alpine and atelier Alpine trim levels, with the range-topping atelier Alpine available exclusively with the plug-in hybrid 300hp powertrain with four-wheel drive. Prices start from £38,495 OTR.
Continuing its momentum, the Renault 5 E-Tech electricsuccessfully defended its ‘Best Electric Small Car’ title, reaffirming the appeal of the retro-inspired electric supermini that has quickly become one of the most awarded new EVs on the market. Combining distinctive design with modern technology, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric offers a driving range of up to 252 miles (WLTP) and is available from £21,495 OTR including the Electric Car Grant.
Robertson continued: “Renault has pulled off something remarkable with the 5 E-Tech: a retro icon reborn as a genuinely class-leading EV. The nods to the 1970s original are cleverly done – the clamshell bonnet, upright proportions, square rear lights – yet it never feels like pastiche. With up to 252 miles of range, snappy performance and smart Google-powered infotainment, this charming hatchback is our Best Electric Small Car for 2026.”
The judges also recognised the enduring appeal and efficiency of Renault Clio, naming it ‘Best Hybrid Small Car’. Available with petrol and full hybrid powertrains, Clio blends low running costs and impressive fuel economy with agile handling, advanced connectivity and enhanced comfort. Prices start from £19,495 OTR.
As Robertson explained: “The Clio remains the supermini hybrid benchmark and takes our Best Hybrid Small Car award for another year. Its 1.6-litre E-Tech system delivers up to 64.2 mpg in a package that looks and feels premium, with a refined interior and tidy dynamics that put many more expensive rivals to shame. Affordable to buy and delightful to live with, the Clio is a supermini doing everything right.”
Scenic E-Tech electric completed Renault’s strong showing in the overall Electrified Top 50, finishing in 14th place. Now qualifying for the full £3,750 Electric Car Grant, prices start from £33,245 OTR.
Robertson added: “The reborn Scenic swapped MPV roots for a sleek electric SUV identity, and the transformation is remarkable. It offers up to 381 miles of range from its 87kWh battery. The cabin is airy and refined, sustainable materials give it a premium feel, and the Google-based infotainment system is a delight. It finished as our overall winner in 2024, and it remains a superb family car that offers excellent comfort for rear occupants.”
Adam Wood, Managing Director, Renault UK, said: “These awards demonstrate the strength of Renault’s electrified E-Tech range across multiple vehicle categories, underlining that our two-legged strategy to provide customers with both the best pure electric and hybrid vehicles is clearly working. Seeing Rafale and Renault 5 win again is especially pleasing, the awards illustrating the enduring appeal of both and their class-leading credentials. Furthermore, Clio’s success demonstrates once again how it continues to set the class standard.”
For more information on the award-winning Renault range, please visit: www.renault.co.uk