Renault 5 E-Tech vs. MINI Cooper E: The Battle of Retro EVs

The electric revolution isn’t just about range and charging times—it’s also about style, nostalgia, and charm. Enter two of the most exciting EVs of recent years: the Renault 5 E-Tech and the MINI Cooper E. Both bring a modern twist to classic motoring icons, offering a mix of retro design, compact practicality, and electric efficiency.

But has Renault out-MINI’d MINI? With the Cooper E setting the standard for premium small EVs and the Renault 5 aiming to bring affordable electric driving to the masses, this is a fascinating battle between two automotive legends. Let’s take a closer look.

A Tale of Two Legends

Both the Renault 5 and the original MINI changed the way we think about small cars. The MINI, first launched in 1959, was a revolution in compact car design, with its front-wheel-drive layout and go-kart handling. The Renault 5, arriving in 1972, took a slightly different approach—practical, stylish, and affordable, making it one of France’s most beloved cars.

Fast forward to 2025, and both have returned as fully electric models. The MINI Cooper E is a refined, premium small EV with BMW’s engineering expertise, while the Renault 5 E-Tech aims to combine affordability with fun and nostalgia.

Design & Interior – Retro Meets Future

Renault 5 E-Tech – Funky and Affordable

Renault has stayed true to the original Renault 5’s design, with chunky, square styling, distinctive LED headlights, and playful colour options. Inside, the cabin has a bohemian feel, with bold textures and a digital dash that still manages to feel retro.

• ✔ More headroom for rear passengers

• ✔ A bigger boot (326 litres, expanding to 1106 litres with the seats down)

• ✔ A simple but stylish cabin that feels solidly built

MINI Cooper E – Premium and High-Tech

The MINI Cooper E leans into its BMW heritage, with high-quality materials, an advanced infotainment system, and a more premium feel overall. It still has the classic MINI look, but with a sleeker, more futuristic design.

• ✔ OLED infotainment with crisp graphics

• ✔ High-quality materials and BMW-like refinement

• ✔ Tighter rear space and a smaller boot (210 litres, or 800 litres with seats down)

Performance & Driving Experience

Both the Renault 5 E-Tech and MINI Cooper E pack plenty of punch for city driving, but the MINI is the clear performance winner.

• MINI Cooper E: 181bhp – zippy acceleration, great high-speed handling

• Renault 5 E-Tech: Less power, but still fun and agile

Range & Charging – Which Goes Further?

Price & Value – Budget-Friendly or Premium Feel?

• Renault 5 E-Tech: Starts at under £25,000

• MINI Cooper E: Starts at £30,120

Which One Should You Buy?

Choose the Renault 5 E-Tech if you want…

• ✔ A more affordable electric car

• ✔ A bigger boot and more passenger space

• ✔ Longer range (250 miles vs. 200 miles)

• ✔ A fun, stylish city car with a retro twist

Choose the MINI Cooper E if you want…

• ✔ A premium small EV with BMW build quality

• ✔ Better performance and sharper handling

• ✔ High-tech features and a more luxurious feel

At anycolourcar.com, we love how these two cars blend retro styling with modern electric performance. Whether you prefer the quirky, fun Renault 5 or the refined, sporty MINI, both are brilliant options for city driving and beyond.

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