Renault 5 takes the 2026 UK Car of the Year Award
The UK Car of the Year Awards (UKCOTY) comprises of 33 independent judges - made up from experienced motoring journalists - voting for winning cars in various categories and ultimately deciding which car should win the coveted UKCOTY award for the best car.
This year saw the top four spots all taken by EVs with the Kia EV4 winning the Family Car category.
There was a joint third prize split between the Skoda Elroq and Alpine A290, the performance sibling to the Renault 5.
However, it was the brilliantly retro, and hugely stylish Renault 5 that was crowned the overall winner commanding a majority vote from the panel of judges.
UKCOTY Award
John Challen, co-chairman of the UK Car of the Year Awards and editor of UK Driver magazine said “By adding an immensely fun and entertaining drive, desirability and affordability to that nostalgic element, the French favourite pulled off a resounding victory to be crowned UK Car of the Year 2026.”
Adam Wood, Managing Director Renault UK, said: “With so many experienced automotive journalists voting for R5 as the UK Car of the Year, the award is something we’re very proud of. It has really hit the spot with retail and fleet customers – and with 2026 being the first full year of sales, plus it being one of the very few EVs to qualify for the full £3,750 Electric Car Grant, R5 is well on its way to being a very common sight on our roads.”
John Challen presenting the UKCOTY Award to Adam Wood
Undoubtedly this confirms what many thought, that the Renault 5 is not just a winner in hearts and minds thanks to its exquisitely cheeky, retro looks and entertaining drive, along with well-integrated technology, but it’s received the highest praise by a collective of experienced automotive journalists, too.
Prices for the Renault 5 E-TECH start at £21,495 for the entry Evolution urban range with the smaller 40 kWh battery, rising to £26,945 for the very posh Roland Garros+ comfort range with its 52 kWh battery. The larger battery pack is capable of 252 miles of range according to the WLTP test cycle (and depending on the trim chosen).
Charging that larger battery takes a mere 30 minutes from 10-80% on a compatible public rapid charger and all Renault 5’s qualify for the full Electric Car Grant (ECG).
For an insight into small electric cars and what’s available, plus what’s coming in 2026, you can read about The Small Electric Hatchback - Past, Present and Future here
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About the Author
Graeme Cobb is a lifelong car enthusiast with a passion for writing about cars, EVs, industry updates and more.
You can find Graeme on 𝕏 at @graeme_cobb or YouTube @REV-EV.