The all-electric Renault 5 E-Tech has been crowned overall winner at the 2026 UK Car of the Year Awards — marking Renault’s first-ever victory in the competition’s top category.
In a decisive result, 20 of the 33 automotive journalists on the judging panel selected the retro-inspired French EV as their overall champion, following its earlier win in the Small Car category.
And in a clear signal of the UK market’s accelerating shift to electrification, the top four overall positions were all taken by electric vehicles.
A Landmark Win for the Renault 5 E-Tech
The revival of the iconic Renault 5 nameplate has clearly struck a chord with UK buyers and industry experts alike. Judges praised the car’s distinctive retro design, engaging driving dynamics and strong value proposition — a combination that proved difficult to beat.
John Challen, co-chairman of the awards, noted that the new Renault 5 blends nostalgia with genuine affordability and driver appeal — a formula that delivered a “resounding victory.”
Adam Wood, Managing Director of Renault UK, highlighted the significance of the win, particularly as 2026 marks the model’s first full year on sale. Crucially for UK buyers, the Renault 5 E-Tech is one of the few electric cars currently eligible for the full £3,750 Electric Car Grant, strengthening its appeal to both retail and fleet customers.
With competitive pricing, compact dimensions ideal for British roads and strong range for everyday use, the Renault 5 E-Tech is positioned to become a common sight across the UK.
Electric Cars Sweep the Top Four
The 2026 awards underline how firmly electric vehicles now dominate the UK’s new car landscape.
Runner-up spot went to the Kia EV4, winner of the Family Car category, praised for its practicality and modern design.
Joint third place was awarded to both the Škoda Elroq, named Best Medium Crossover, and the sporty Alpine A290, which secured the Performance Car title.
That an electric hot hatch and two family-focused EVs completed the podium reflects the growing breadth and maturity of the UK EV market.
Why the Renault 5 Resonates with UK Buyers
Judges consistently highlighted four key strengths:
– Affordability compared with many rivals
– Retro-modern styling that nods to the original Renault 5
– Fun-to-drive character rarely associated with affordable Evs
– Everyday usability for UK roads and urban driving
Several panel members described it as a car that appeals to both heart and head — combining emotional design with practical ownership benefits.
With strong early demand and eligibility for government incentives, the Renault 5 E-Tech arrives at precisely the right moment for UK motorists considering the switch to electric.
Full List: UK Car of the Year Awards 2026 Category Winners
- Small Car – Renault 5 E-Tech
- Family Car – Kia EV4
- Small Crossover – Citroën C3/ë-C3 Aircross
- Medium Crossover – Škoda Elroq
- Large Crossover – Hyundai IONIQ 9
- Executive Car – Audi A6
- Estate Car – Audi A6 Avant
- Performance Car – Alpine A290
What This Means for the UK EV Market
The 2026 results confirm a clear trend: electric cars are no longer niche contenders — they are the benchmark.
With mainstream manufacturers delivering compelling EVs across every segment, from superminis to executive saloons, UK buyers now have genuine choice at competitive price points.
For Renault, the victory represents more than a trophy. It signals a successful electric reinvention of one of its most beloved nameplates — and strengthens its position in the increasingly competitive UK EV market.
As 2026 unfolds, expect to see many more Renault 5 E-Tech models lighting up British roads.
