8,135,424. That's the number of Renault 4s sold in over 100 countries during its 30-year production run. Introduced in 1961, this economy car was a latecomer compared to the Citroën 2CV but still achieved global commercial success. It remained in production until 1994 and is now officially making a comeback. Note that this new model is not a direct successor; it's no longer the bare-bones hatchback you might recall.
Previewed by the quirky 4ever Trophy concept a few years ago, the production version is essentially a crossover variant of the revived Renault 5. This smart-looking hatchback features a raised suspension and additional plastic body cladding, transforming it into a pint-sized SUV. One notable feature is the electrically operated sliding fabric roof, reminiscent of its long-standing predecessor.
The Renault 4 E-Tech appears more utilitarian than the hatchback, with a boxy body similar to the original R4. Renault has incorporated the classic rounded headlights into the modern design, along with vertical three-part taillights shaped like a pill, paying homage to its inspiration. The original model's tailgate extended all the way down for enhanced practicality, and the new 4's rear hatch continues this tradition, with an opening just 24 inches (61 centimeters) from the ground.
At 163 inches (4.14 meters) long, the reborn Renault 4 sits between the Clio supermini and the Captur subcompact crossover. It measures 70.8 inches (1.8 meters) wide and 61.8 inches (1.57 meters) tall, with a ground clearance of 7.1 inches (18.1 centimeters). This makes it larger in every dimension compared to the new R5. All variants of this compact crossover come equipped with 18-inch wheels.
Similar to the R5, the nostalgia-driven electric crossover features multi-link independent suspension at both the front and rear axles. It's rare to find such a setup in the B-segment, especially among mainstream models. The interior is instantly recognizable as it has been largely carried over from the hatchback. The crossover's larger size results in a more generous cargo capacity of 14.8 cubic feet (420 liters). Additionally, the wheelbase has been extended to 103.1 inches (2.62 meters), providing more legroom for rear passengers. The dashboard includes a 10.1-inch digital driver’s display and a 10-inch touchscreen, with some physical buttons retained below the central air vents.
Based on the same AmpR Small platform as the R5, the new retro-styled crossover is available with two power outputs: 121 hp (90 kW) and 166 lb-ft (225 Nm), or a more powerful motor delivering 148 hp (110 kW) and 181 lb-ft (245 Nm). Two battery sizes are offered: 40 kWh and 52 kWh, with Renault estimating a maximum range of 400 kilometers. The battery can be charged via DC at up to 100 kW, taking around 30 minutes to go from 15% to 80%. Opting for the more powerful motor will enable the Renault 4 E-Tech to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in under 8.5 seconds and from 50 to 75 mph (80 to 120 km/h) in less than seven seconds.
