Renault has launched the 4 E-Tech Plein Sud, a variant of its retro-styled electric B-segment crossover featuring an electric canvas folding roof measuring 800 by 920 mm. This setup, operated by button or voice command, provides open-air access for all passengers and marks the only such configuration in its class. Priced from £27,445 in the UK after grants or €37,290 in Europe before incentives, it revives a 1960s Renault 4 feature while retaining core specs like 147 hp and 52 kWh battery.
Buyers seeking fun in affordable EVs now have a practical open-top option without sacrificing range or headroom, addressing a gap in the segment where convertibles remain rare.
Background: Renault’s Retro EV Revival
Renault launched the 4 E-Tech electric in 2025 as a modern take on the original Renault 4, produced from 1961 to 1992 and sold over 8 million units as an affordable, versatile small car. The new model targets the B-segment crossover market, competing with vehicles like the Jeep Avenger and Citroën ë-C3, blending retro design with EV efficiency. The Plein Sud edition, named after the sunny ‘due south’ direction and echoing the 1960s Plein Air soft-top variant, became available for order on May 5, 2026, for R Pass holders and on May 14 for the public.
Renault positions the 4 E-Tech lineup, including Plein Sud in Techno+ and Iconic+ trims, as a fun, practical EV. The company emphasises European market focus, with no North American plans, and highlights updated 28-item driver assistance, including drowsy driver monitoring and emergency stop systems to meet new regulations.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Front-mounted electric motor, 147 hp (110 kW) |
| Battery | 52 kWh |
| Range (WLTP) | Up to 389 km (Plein Sud); 400 km (standard roof) |
| Canvas Roof Opening | 800 mm x 920 mm, electric, multi-stage, folds in three parts |
| Headroom (Front/Rear) | 906 mm / 813 mm (Plein Sud); 886 mm / 853 mm (standard) |
| Boot Capacity | Up to 1,350 litres (seats folded), unchanged |
| UK Pricing (after £3,750 grant) | From £27,445 (+£1,500 for roof) |
| EU Pricing (Techno/Iconic, before incentives) | €37,290 / €39,290 (+€1,800 for roof) |
| Wheels/Trims | 18-inch, Techno+ and Iconic+ with OpenR Link infotainment |
Design and Open-Air Engineering
The Plein Sud’s canvas roof, made with plastic structural components and multi-layer fabric for noise/heat insulation, integrates seamlessly into the 4 E-Tech’s body, designed from the outset for this option. It opens via dashboard button, voice command through Reno assistant, or multiple intermediate positions, unlike the manual 1960s versions. Renault confirms no impact on luggage space or low 607 mm loading sill, and crucially, headroom improves slightly over the fixed-roof model due to optimised packaging.
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This setup delivers breeze to front and rear seats without full convertible compromises like added weight or reduced structural rigidity. However, details on wind deflector availability or high-speed noise levels remain unconfirmed.
Performance and Practicality
Matching the standard 4 E-Tech, the Plein Sud uses a 52 kWh battery for a 389 km WLTP range – just 11 km less than the fixed-roof despite the large opening, thanks to retained aerodynamics when closed. The 147 hp motor suits urban and highway use in this 1,400+ kg crossover. Boot access stays practical with the power tailgate on Iconic+.
Safety upgrades across the lineup include driver monitoring and autonomous emergency stop, but real-world range in open-roof mode or charging speeds (details not confirmed) warrant testing. UK prices reflect £3,750 grant; EU figures exclude incentives, varying by country.
Comparison with Competitors
No direct B-segment EV rivals offer a comparable electric canvas roof. The Jeep Avenger (154 hp, 400 km range) starts similarly at ~£28,000 post-grant but lacks open-air options. Citroën ë-C3 (113 hp, 320 km) undercuts at ~£23,000 yet feels basic without such flair. Fiat Grande Panda EV (not launched) promises affordability but no roof innovation. Plein Sud stands out for blending utility and openness.
Verdict
The Renault 4 E-Tech Plein Sud delivers a rare open-air EV experience in the practical B-segment at a modest £1,500/€1,800 premium, preserving range, space, and safety – ideal for European buyers wanting retro fun with modern efficiency. It’s for urban drivers craving convertible vibes without full-size cabrio costs, though wind noise at speed and long-term canvas durability need proving. Unanswered: exact US/incentive-adjusted prices beyond UK/EU and open-roof range impact.
