The Renault 4 and 5 will be updated next year, bringing more efficient and more powerful motors.
The R5 arrived in 2024, and it was followed by the R4, its crossover twin, in early 2025. Both models are based on the AmpR Small platform and use Renault’s second-generation externally excited-synchronous (EESM) motors, which are available in two configurations.
The R5 Urban Range pairs a 121bhp EESM with a 40kWh battery, while the Comfort Range gets a 148bhp motor and a 52kWh battery pack. In the UK, the larger R4 is only available with the Comfort Range set-up.
These powertrains enable the R5 to deliver a range of either 192 or 252 miles. The latter figure is reduced to 250 miles in the chunkier R4.
Renault is now ready to roll out updated ‘Gen 2 Evo’ motors for the two models, drawing on its learnings from developing third-generation drive units for the next Scenic and Megane that are due in 2028.
“We are still working on how to improve the efficiency and power [of the Gen 2 motors],” said Marianne Bataillon, Renault’s director of EV motor and battery development. “We are going to apply these [changes] at the end of 2026 or beginning of 2027.”
Bataillon highlighted the motor’s inverter and reducers as points of improvement that have netting greater efficiency and improved power outputs.
The new motors will help to keep the R4 and R5 on a par with newer rivals on technical terms. The incoming Volkswagen ID Polo outdoes the R5 in the range stakes, offering either 204 or 283 miles between charges, depending on which powertrain it is fitted with. The same is true of the new Skoda Epiq: it yields either 190 or 272 miles of range, with the higher figure beating the R4.
Renault’s new Gen 2 Evo motor made its debut in the Twingo, which arrives in the UK at the end of this year. In that car, however, its output is reduced to 80bhp, owing to its city-focused remit.
