Fun retro style and a bargain price tag have helped make Renault’s 5 EV a massive hit, and now the automaker is looking to replicate that success one rung down the size and affordability ladder. The automaker has already shown next year’s Twingo in concept form, and now we’ve got pictures of the baby EV testing in prototype form.

Renault has bolted its Twingo badge to various small cars over the years, but the new one harks back to the 1993 original, an egg-shaped one-box hatch with distinctive frog-like eyes. But instead of two doors and a wheezy petrol engine, the new one has a practical four-door layout and zippy all-electric powertrain.

Related: Renault’s Updated Twingo Concept Hints At Next Year’s €20,000 EV

The 5’s baby brother goes on sale next year when it’s expected to cost less than €20,000 (£17k / $23k). That’ll make it slightly more expensive than the most basic Dacia Spring and Leapmotor 01, and put it into battle with the €19,990 Dolphin Surf from China’s BYD and – eventually – VW’s ID.1.

Renault previewed its budget EV with the Twingo E-Tech concept, which made its debut last year and was wheeled out again at the start of 2025, after some minor cosmetic surgery. The first shots of a prototype tell us the production car will stick close to the concept’s promise. Its wheels are pushed tight into each corner to free up as much interior space as possible, the windshield is swept back, just like the original Twingo’s, and the bulging headlights ensure it has the same friendly face.

The large charging port flap on the passenger fender is a different shape, sitting on the other side of the one on the concept, and this test car appears to have conventional door handles, whereas the show car had them concealed in the front door skin and the upper door frame next to the C-pillar. We’re hoping they’ll have migrated to their original concept positions by the time the car makes its production debut.

Nicolas Laperruque/SHProshots

We don’t get to see inside the Twingo this time, but the concept had a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and a separate 10.1-inch floating infotainment screen. Renault doesn’t make a habit of overpromising and underdelivering. It didn’t reveal any tech specs for the Twingo E-Tech, but common sense says it’ll identify on a shortened version of the same AmpR Small architecture found in the Renault 4 and 5.

If it gets the same 40 kWh battery and 94 hp (95 PS / 70 kW) single-motor setup as the base 5 it should be good for over 200 miles (320 km) of range and zero to 62 mph (100 kmh) in around 11 seconds, though 121 hp (122 PS / 90 kW) and even 148 hp (150 PS / 110 kW) upgrades could be an option tick away.

Renault

While the original Renault Clio Williams holds a legendary place in hot hatch history, modern fans looking for a spiritual successor may feel slightly left out. The current Clio lineup skips a performance-focused variant altogether, shifting attention to the fully electric Alpine A290 built on the new Renault 5 platform. Still, for those drawn to heritage and design, there’s now a limited-edition R5 that leans into nostalgia with purpose.

More: This Mud-Slinging Renault 5 EV Needs To Happen

The Renault 5 Monte Carlo Edition is the result of a collaboration between Dutch dealer Zeeuw & Zeeuw and coachbuilding and design specialist Re-Volve. Only 25 units will be built, all for the Netherlands market. Billed as a tribute to Renault’s motorsport legacy, the special edition wears its influences proudly.

Retro Looks With Modern Electric Bones

This electric R5 is finished in Midnight Blue with a contrasting black roof, a color combination already seen in Renault’s standard configurator. What sets the Monte Carlo Edition apart is a distinctive gold livery that runs across the grille, sides, and rear hatch, echoing the gold accents of its ’90s ancestor. It rides on bespoke 19-inch gold alloy wheels, adding a stronger visual link to its rally-inspired roots.

Inside, the special R5 gets black leather and Alcantara upholstery with gold stitching, alongside a commemorative plaque on the center console. The standard bucket seats already carry a retro-inspired design, but here the familiar blue “W” emblem from the Clio Williams is replaced with a gold “5”, bringing the tribute full circle.

Zeeuw & Zeeuw

Houston, We Have A Problem

The stunning spec certainly makes the R5 more desirable, adding sporty and premium tones. However, the Monte Carlo Edition doesn’t feature any upgrades under the skin. Surprisingly, it is not even based on the more potent version of the R5 with 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS) that would closely match the 145 hp (108 kW / 147 PS) of the naturally-aspirated 2.0-liter engine found in the original Clio Williams.

Instead, it uses the 121 hp (90 kW) electric motor paired with a 40 kWh battery, offering up to 309 km (192 miles) of WLTP range. Renault says this setup allows for a 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) time of 9 seconds, with a top speed of 150 km/h (93 mph). Performance like this doesn’t live up to the legacy of the Williams badge.

More: Renault 5 Turbo 3E Is A 535-HP Supercar Disguised As A Hot Hatch

For those willing to trade performance for exclusivity and nostalgic flair, the Renault 5 Monte Carlo Edition is priced at €37,995 ($44,400). That’s about €8,000 ($9,400) more than the standard R5 E-Tech Urban Range Techno trim it’s based on, which starts at €29,990 ($35,000) in the Dutch market. Availability is limited to Zeeuw & Zeeuw’s network in the Netherlands.

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Among small electric vehicles, the Renault 5 stands out with one of the most distinctive designs on the market. Its sportier sibling, the Alpine A290, shares the same visual charm, but one tuning company had a different vision entirely. Delta 4×4 imagined the Renault 5 not as a city runabout, but as a rugged, rally-inspired off-roader.

More: Alpine’s New A290 Rallye Throws Mud And Sparks At $70K

Their goal was to reimagine the EV as a compact trail-ready machine, complete with off-road hardware and motorsport styling. The transformation begins with a set of 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in chunky all-terrain tires. These provide improved grip on loose surfaces and, paired with a 100 mm (3.9-inch) suspension lift, raise the hatchback’s ground clearance significantly.

Off-Road Looks with a Rally Twist

The high-riding EV features four PIAA LED spotlights at the front, reminiscent of the original R5 Turbo rally car. While the bumpers have been carried over from the standard model, the pumped-up R5 gets wide fender extensions and leather straps mounted on the hood and the tailgate.

The Dakar-style roof rack holds dual LED bars for extra visibility, various kinds of containers, snow tracks, and a full-size spare tire. As a final touch, the model is wrapped in a colorful livery combining yellow, teal, pink, and black graphics on a white bodywork.

Despite its rugged stance, the donor vehicle is exclusively available with a single electric motor, meaning there is no AWD option. Its most powerful version makes 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS), while the performance-focused Alpine A290 raises that significantly, to 217 hp (220 PS / 160 kW).

More: Renault’s Retro R4 EV Could Get A Whole Lot More Interesting Soon

High-spec versions of the R5 are fitted with a 52 kWh battery pack, offering a maximum WLTP range of 400 kilometers (249 miles) between charges. Still, the grippy tires, worse aerodynamics, and extra weight of the off-road built will most likely reduce that number – which shouldn’t be an issue, really, given the model’s mission.

For now, the lifted Renault 5 exists only as a digital concept. However, if there’s enough interest, delta 4×4 may offer a conversion kit for owners who want to turn their retro-styled EV into a mini off-roader. Renault 5 drivers curious about the transformation can reach out to the company for more information.

Delta 4×4 / Facebook

Mitsubishi’s European return is starting to take shape in unexpected yet practical ways. After announcing its retreat from the region in 2020 due to mounting losses, the brand has quietly shifted gears. Now, five years later, Mitsubishi is expanding its presence across Europe by tapping into its alliance with Renault, opting for strategic efficiency over in-house development.

More: Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Returns But It’ll Be As Japanese As A Croissant

That partnership began with the Mitsubishi Colt and ASX, which are essentially Renault Clio and Captur models with new badges. The next phase arrives in September with a fully electric successor to the Eclipse Cross, sharing its platform with the Renault Megane E-Tech crossover.

Following that, Mitsubishi plans to launch a more family-focused model called the Grandis, based on the Renault Symbioz, before the end of the year.

Building Identity in a Shared Platform World

There’s understandable skepticism around badge engineering, but Mitsubishi isn’t ignoring the criticism. Frank Krol, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Europe, addressed this in a conversation with Auto News. He said the upcoming Eclipse Cross EV will be “much more Mitsubishi” than previous rebadged efforts.

He also emphasized the brand’s intention to bring more own-developed models to Europe. At the moment, the Outlander PHEV is the only vehicle that fits that description.

Still, Krol hinted at another stage of Mitsubishi’s collaboration with Renault for the near future. While he didn’t get into details, this could be a new model based on the next generation of the Renault Clio that is expected to debut before the end of 2025.

Mitsubishi’s target is to grow annual European sales to between 75,000 and 80,000 units, up from 60,879 in 2024. That figure already represented a 44 percent increase over 2023, largely driven by the strong performance of the Renault-derived Colt and ASX.

The Problem And A Possible Answer

Despite some encouraging progress, Mitsubishi’s Renault-based models haven’t been able to offset recent losses. Between January and May 2025, the brand saw a 29 percent drop in European sales. Much of that decline stems from the discontinuation of the Space Star (Mirage) and Eclipse Cross, both of which were pulled from the market after falling short of updated safety regulations.

More: Mitsubishi’s American EV Will Be A Nissan In Disguise

The departure of the Space Star is especially significant. In 2024, it made up 39 percent of Mitsubishi’s European sales, occupying the crucial entry-level spot in the lineup. Without a replacement in the city car segment, the brand faces a clear gap in its offering.

Kei Cars in Europe? Not So Simple

One potential fix could lie in a European take on Japan’s kei car segment, an idea floated by Stellantis Chairman John Elkann and former Renault CEO Luca de Meo. For Mitsubishi, this approach would tap into its deep kei car know-how without requiring heavy investment in Europe-only models.

As Krol put it, “That would be a good tool to ramp up this industry in terms of electrification.” Still, he was quick to add that bringing kei cars to Europe “sounds easier than it is,” hinting at the regulatory and market hurdles involved.

Mitsubishi is currently active in 20 European markets, with two more under review. That’s a notable drop from the 32 markets it covered in 2019, a decline largely tied to the withdrawal of the L200 pickup from the region. According to Krol, reintroducing the midsize truck in Europe would require an electrified powertrain, which isn’t a commercially viable option given the segment’s limited sales potential.

Earlier this year, Mitsubishi cancelled plans to develop two in-house electric vehicles, choosing instead to focus on hybrids and plug-in hybrids. During a May earnings call, global CEO Takao Kato acknowledged the need for EVs in Europe, but said the company would meet that demand by leveraging products from partner OEMs rather than going it alone.

Renault is giving the Megane E-Tech a much-needed refresh in 2026, five years after it first hit the streets. This mid-lifecycle update is set to bring the electric crossover, which is really more of a hatchback, up to date with sleeker styling and updated battery packs, so it can stay competitive with newer rivals on the market.

More: One Of Europe’s Top Auto Bosses Suddenly Quit Just As Things Start Looking Up

The French brand has already made a few incremental updates to the Megane E-Tech, including adding one-pedal driving, Vehicle-to-Grid functions, and introducing an Esprit Alpine trim. However, these minor changes were just a warm-up for the upcoming actual facelift.

Small Changes, Big Upgrades

Our spy photographers caught a camouflaged prototype during testing, revealing some of the key changes. The front end will receive a major overhaul, adopting the latest styling from Renault’s other models, including the Scenic E-Tech and the ICE-powered Clio and Captur. Expect slimmer LED headlights, a new grille, and a more minimalist bumper design.

The profile will be largely left untouched, but Renault designers could add new alloy wheels and more options in the color palette. The rear will also see modest updates, with refreshed LED taillight graphics and a tweaked bumper.

Inside, the Megane E-Tech will probably stay the same. After all, it was the first model to feature Renault’s new digital cockpit and the Google-powered OpenR infotainment system, which has since been rolled out to other models in the lineup.

New Batteries Made In France

Setting aside the cosmetic changes, the new Megane E-Tech will bring important upgrades under the skin. Renault is expected to replace the current 40kW and 60kW LG battery packs that are being imported with new ones from AESC. These will be produced in Douai, France, and could extend the driving range of the EV over the 470 km (290 miles) offered by the current version.

More: Affordable Car Crisis Has EU’s Auto Giants Calling For A Radical New Category

Judging from the new generation of the Nissan Leaf that also rides on the same CMF-EV architecture, the facelifted Renault Megane E-Tech could gain 150 kW DC fast charging capabilities.

At the moment, it is not clear whether Renault will upgrade the electric powertrain of the Megane E-Tech. The outgoing model is available with single electric motors producing either 129 hp (96 kW / 131 PS) or 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS). What we know for sure is that the Renault won’t get the tri-motor powertrain of the more upmarket Alpine A390 that generates up to 463 hp (345 kW / 469 PS).

The facelifted Megane E-Tech is expected to be unveiled toward the end of 2025, with a market launch in 2026. Meanwhile, reports suggest that Renault is already working on a completely new generation of the model, which could arrive around 2029.

SH Proshots

Affordable city cars are vanishing across Europe, and not in a cool, mysterious way. Their disappearance is being driven by a mess of regulations and a market increasingly tilted toward heavier, pricier vehicles.

Now, the heads of Stellantis and Renault are calling on European regulators to rethink the rules in order to make building small cars viable again. Their proposed fix? Borrow a page from Japan’s playbook and support the development of compact EVs, or as they’ve been dubbed, E-Cars.

Read: Stellantis CEO To Earn More In His First Year Than Most Will In A Lifetime Yet Still Trails Rivals

The decline has been dramatic. Stellantis chairman John Elkann says Europe once saw around 1 million new cars priced under €15,000 (roughly $17,400) sold each year. That number has collapsed to just 100,000. For automakers, the financial incentive to produce such vehicles is fading fast, largely due to European Union regulations that make designing and manufacturing them less and less attractive.

“We are going to face more than 120 new regulations by 2030,” Elkann said. “If you look at our engineers, more than 25 percent just work on compliance, so no value is added. There’s no reason why if Japan has a kei car, which is 40 percent of the market, Europe should not have an E-Car.”

New Regulations Are Needed

Before his unexpected resignation earlier today, Renault CEO Luca de Meo echoed Elkann’s concerns in an interview with Autonews. He called on countries like France, Spain, and Italy to take the lead in reviving the dwindling small-car segment. In his words, “driving around every day in an electric vehicle weighing 2.5 tons is clearly an environmental nonsense,” and he pushed for “the mass development of small cars for urban travel and last-mile deliveries.”

“What we are asking for is a differentiated regulation for smaller cars,” de Meo added. “There are too many rules designed for bigger and more expensive cars, which means we can’t make smaller cars in acceptable profitability conditions.”

Also: One Of Europe’s Top Auto Bosses Suddenly Quit Just As Things Start Looking Up

Stellantis, to its credit, still offers a few tiny transport options, including the Citroen Ami, Opel Rocks-e, and Fiat Topolino. All three fall under the EU’s quadricycle category, a niche regulatory loophole that allows ultra-light, low-speed vehicles to exist, barely. But to spark a broader return of small, cheap cars, European lawmakers may need to revisit those definitions entirely, either by tweaking quadricycle regulations or creating a fresh classification for compact EVs.

Researchers from the Gerpisa automotive research center are urging regulators to permit car companies to sell Kei car-like vehicles locally, believing this will help local brands compete with Chinese competition.

Emergency vehicles usually aren’t very exciting, but Renault has taken the wraps off the new Vision 4Rescue concept. It’s based on the Renault 4 E-Tech and features a drone that can be deployed from a roof-mounted storage box.

Billed as a mobile fire command center, the Vision 4Rescue features a bright red exterior with a mix of matte and gloss graphics inspired by emergency services. They’re joined by chunky fender flares and an extra 0.6 inches (15 mm) of ground clearance.

More: Ford’s Bronco Wildland Firefighting Command Vehicle Is Hot Stuff

Elsewhere, there are emergency lights and modified bumpers. The latter incorporate 3D-printed bump stops that have shock-absorbing properties to minimize damage.

The most eye-catching detail is the roof-mounted storage box, which is mounted on stylish supports. The aerodynamic compartment not only houses the aforementioned drone, but also equipment which can be used to “restore a communications network in the wake of a disaster.”

Renault says the interior was developed in close collaboration with fire services and features a split cargo area. The upper section has a slide out workspace with two monitors and a keyboard. It serves as a communications hub as well as a monitoring station for the drone.

The lower section features two storage compartments, which are designed to hold emergency equipment. This includes helmets, bags, tablets, and walkie-talkies.

The cockpit follows in the footsteps of the regular model, but has special seats with PinPon pattern upholstery. The seats are also notable for using foam sourced from recycled firefighting suits.

Elsewhere, there are walkie-talkie holders and “Je te reçois 4 sur 4” badging. The latter means ‘Reading you loud and clear.’

Renault went on to say the concept has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system and helps to promote the Software République consortium. In particular, the company said the car has nearly 20 interconnected solutions and Software République developed an ecosystem “designed to standardize the different technologies used by … emergency services for a faster and better coordinated response.”

Renault