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RENAULT CLAIMS A TRIO OF TROPHIES AT THE WHAT CAR? AWARDS 2026, WITH SUCCESS FOR RENAULT 4, 5 AND CLIO

23 January 2026

RENAULT CLAIMS A TRIO OF TROPHIES AT THE WHAT CAR? AWARDS 2026, WITH SUCCESS FOR RENAULT 4, 5 AND CLIO

RENAULT CLAIMS A TRIO OF TROPHIES AT THE WHAT CAR? AWARDS 2026, WITH SUCCESS FOR RENAULT 4, 5 AND CLIO

  • Renault 5 E-Tech electric named ‘Best Small Electric Car’ at the What Car? Awards 2026
  • Renault 4 E-Tech electric awarded ‘Best Small Electric SUV for Value’
  • Renault Clio wins ‘Best Small Car to Drive’, underlining its dynamic appeal
  • Triple success highlights Renault’s strength across electric and small-car segments

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.

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. 

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. 

Recently updated for 2026, the Renault Clio combines a streamlined line-up with improved value, comfort and technology. 

For full details of the latest Renault range, please visit: www.renault.co.uk