The Renault 5 and its Alpine A290 sibling have claimed the prestigious 2025 Car of the Year (COTY) award, standing out among seven shortlisted vehicles. The announcement was made at the Brussels Motor Show, with Renault's CEO, Fabrice Cambolive, expressing pride in the achievement. According to Cambolive, the Renault 5 has the potential to transform the electric vehicle (EV) market by combining desirability and practicality.
Final Rankings and Points:
- Renault 5/Alpine A290: 353 points
- Kia EV3: 291 points
- Citroën C3/ë-C3: 215 points
- Dacia Duster: 172 points
- Hyundai Inster: 168 points
- Cupra Terramar: 165 points
- Alfa Romeo Junior: 136 points
This marks Renault's second consecutive victory, following the Renault Scenic in 2024. It also makes Renault the first brand to secure back-to-back wins since Fiat in the mid-1990s.
The History of the Car of the Year Awards
The Car of the Year (COTY) awards have been a cornerstone of the automotive industry since their inception in 1964. Established to recognize excellence in car design, engineering, and innovation, the award is considered one of the most prestigious honors in the automotive world. It holds a unique place among industry accolades due to its independence, transparency, and the rigorous evaluation process undertaken by an international jury.
Why the Renault 5 Won the 2025 Car of the Year Award
The Renault 5, along with its Alpine A290 variant, was awarded the 2025 Car of the Year (COTY) title due to its combination of practical features, affordability, and strong performance. It was judged by a panel of 60 automotive journalists from 23 countries, who gave it the highest overall score among seven finalists.
Design and Appeal
The Renault 5’s design was a key factor in its win. It draws inspiration from the classic Renault 5 model but updates it with modern elements, making it appealing to both nostalgic buyers and those new to the brand. The Alpine A290, a sportier version of the Renault 5, adds further appeal for those looking for a more dynamic driving experience.
Driving Dynamics
The car’s suspension was noted for its balance between comfort and agility, making it suitable for both urban and rural driving conditions. Reviewers highlighted its refined ride quality and easy handling as standout features. These attributes contributed significantly to its appeal as an everyday vehicle.
Accessibility and Affordability
A major advantage of the Renault 5 is its affordability in the electric vehicle (EV) market. It offers features and performance that make it competitive with more expensive models, while its pricing ensures accessibility to a broad range of buyers. This combination of cost-effectiveness and quality was central to its recognition by the jury.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Renault 5 features a practical and user-friendly design. The controls are laid out for ease of use, and the overall quality of materials represents a noticeable improvement compared to previous Renault models. The Alpine A290 enhances the experience with sportier interior details, but even the standard Renault 5 received high marks for its functionality and comfort.
Jury Evaluation
The Car of the Year jury highlighted the Renault 5’s ability to meet diverse consumer needs. It combines practical features, environmental credentials, and an engaging driving experience at a price point that challenges traditional perceptions of electric vehicles. The Alpine A290’s enhanced performance and design added to the model’s overall appeal but were not the sole basis for the win.
Runner-Up: Kia EV3
The Kia EV3 received praise for its distinctive design, comfort, and user-friendly driving dynamics. However, while it performed well in most areas, it lacked the groundbreaking qualities of the Renault 5.
Other Contenders
- The Citroën C3/ë-C3 stood out for its simplicity and value, offering robust design and comfortable driving, particularly with the electric variant.
- The Dacia Duster impressed with its practicality and affordability, delivering solid family transport at a budget-friendly price.
- The Hyundai Inster offered clever features like sliding rear seats but fell short on versatility and price.
- The Cupra Terramar and Alfa Romeo Junior struggled to bring innovation, with both models facing tough competition in their segments.
The Renault 5 stood out among the seven finalists as a well-rounded, practical, and affordable electric vehicle. Its mix of modern design, accessible pricing, and reliable performance made it a deserving choice for the 2025 Car of the Year award.
