Renault 4 review

It hardly takes an automotive Inspector Clouseau to figure out this car is an extremely close relative of today's R5. The whole of Renault's excellent screen and physical control system is here.

The driver's screen is seven inches in the entry spec and 10.1 inches above that. Another full-size one sits alongside it as the touchscreen. The layout and definition is solidly competitive. In Techno spec it has a Google navigation with an effective EV route planner that calculates the shortest charging time for your trip by figuring out their power and availability. In Evolution spec you're using phone mirroring.

We love the number of physical controls. That includes metallic switches for climate control and stereo volume, and the shortcut switch for ADAS. The driver gets lots of steering-wheel buttons for cruise and display configuration, and because they’re not haptic they actually work.

The left-hand stalk is lights and indicators. On the right there are three stalks: one is the drive selector, which needs a long push/pull and often needs a second attempt. Annoying. Another the wipers and the third controls the stereo. Yes, it can take your right fingers a few attempts to tickle the correct one. Still quicker than screen-diving though.

The material quality and fit ‘n’ finish are both very good. Entry cars get upholstery across the dash and while there are some cheap plastics (notably on the centre console) you’ll forgive it for that quickly. Some surfaces are vulnerable to smudge marks, we must admit, and the various cubbies aren’t that large. Best make it a can rather than a bottle of Lilt.

Speaking of space, will my family fit in it?

If it’s small, sure. The R4 is nicely sized, thanks to an extra slice of wheelbase versus the R5. Provided the driver raises their seat a little, there's enough room for the extremities (toes, kneecaps, scalps) of an adult behind them.

There’s not much elbow or shoulder room back here though, so longer journeys will be a bit taxing, and the rear bench is squishy but flat. At least there are a couple of USB-C ports to keep devices alive and pass the time.

The boot is a deep 420 litres and the front passenger seat folds forward to take your DIY planks or cello. Knock the seats flat and space rises to 1,405 litres. The flat floor has a dual-split entry (check out the gallery up top), so you can still get at charging cables and whatnot while carrying something bulky. Very sensible.

A section of the bumper lifts with the tailgate, so the floor is quite low. Good for loading dogs and white goods. Though not at the same time.