RENAULT is bringing back the classic 5 hatchback, but people have been left divided after seeing early concepts and disguised pre-production models.
The French manufacturer has published a revealing gallery of the model, showing us a little more of what to expect from the upcoming EV.
Renault is bringing back the classic 5 hatchback, but people have been left dividedTop Gear / BBC
The prototype mule maintains the retro design inspired by the original 1972 Renault 5Top Gear / BBC
Wrapped in black camouflage with red and yellow trims to highlight the body lines, the prototype models show the vehicle hasn’t strayed far from the concept shown two years ago.
Other than slightly larger mirrors and standard door handles replacing the flush ones of the concept, the prototype mule maintains the retro design inspired by the original 1972 Renault 5.
The French brand’s Technocentre hub, based outside Paris, has been used to produce 60 prototype models.
Renault produced the very first electric Renault 5s in October 2021, which were used for testing across extreme conditions.
Renault design chief Gilles Vidal said: “The design of the Renault 5 Prototype is based on the R5, a cult model of our heritage. This prototype simply embodies modernity, a vehicle relevant to its time: urban, electric, attractive.”
The French car maker confirmed it’s scheduled to arrive in 2024 – and will compete with other EVs, such as the Fiat 500 and MINI electric.
But people are divided on whether or not this new model really looks like a Renault 5.
One said: “Firstly, I thought parts of the design of the Twingo were to represent the 5? Secondly, this doesn’t really look like a Renault 5.”
Another said: “Good looking, reminiscent of the original 5, yet fresh style too.”
A third pointed out: “I like that a lot. Can definitely see the R5 influence-but. It’s totally modern.”
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Plus, drivers are just realising that they can parallel park perfectly every time with an expert’s fool-proof method.
The French car maker confirmed it’s scheduled to arrive in 2024Top Gear / BBC