The Renault 5 E-Tech electric supermini and its Alpine A290 hot hatch twin have taken the European Car of the Year title for 2025, building on the Renault Scenic E-Tech’s win in 2024.

The winning duo was chosen by 60 motoring journalists from 23 countries

The winners were revealed at the opening day of the Brussels Motor Show in Belgium.

The Renault 5, entered jointly with the Alpine A290, was named as one of seven finalists, alongside the Alfa Romeo Junior, Citroën ë-C3/C3, Cupra Terramar, Dacia Duster, Hyundai Inster and Kia EV3.

The winning duo was chosen by 60 motoring journalists from 23 countries, and took first place with 353 points.

The Renault 5 is the eighth Renault vehicle to claim the title after the Renault 16 (1966), Renault 9 (1982), Clio I (1991), Scenic (1997), Megane (2003), Clio III (2006) and Scenic E-Tech (2024).

Renault said the award recognises the group’s electrification strategy, as well as the relevance and quality of the new Renault and Alpine ranges. Developed as part of the Renaulution plan, they’re built on the AmpR Small platform.

Fabrice Cambolive, CEO Renault brand, said: “Within the group, the Renault brand and Ampere, we all feel immensely proud to have taken the prestigious Car of the Year award for the second year running.

“Renault 5 E-Tech electric is a real game changer in Europe. It makes electric vehicles desirable as well as inspiring an emotional response. At the same time, it was designed to deliver added value for our customers. If there’s one car with the potential to transform the electric market, it’s this one.”

The Renault 5 fully electric five-door supermini teams up the revered 5 moniker with retro styling and starts UK deliveries in spring 2025, with demonstrators in Renault showrooms from March.

The entry-level model will be available this year in Europe, priced from €25,000 before government incentives.