Modern electric vehicles are increasingly feeling like interchangeable tech pods, but the newly revealed Renault 4 E-Tech Plein Sud trim is injecting some much-needed personality back into the segment. Designed as an open-top electric hatch, this new variant revives the retro charm of the original Renault 4 by integrating a massive electrically folding fabric roof. Renault claims this makes the Plein Sud the only electric car in its specific segment to offer a fully opening roof, arriving just in time for the Northern Hemisphere's summer season.
The fabric opening measures a substantial 31.5 by 36.2 inches (800 by 920 mm), making it significantly larger than conventional sunroofs found on modern cars. The roof folds back electrically in multiple stages, providing an immersive open-air experience for both front and rear passengers. Drivers can control the mechanism using a physical toggle switch mounted above the windscreen or via the built-in voice assistant (Reno). To accommodate this expansive roof design, Renault engineers removed the standard antenna and the SUV-style roof bars found on the base R4 model.
Underneath the retro styling, the Plein Sud retains a solid technical foundation. It is powered by a 147-hp front-mounted motor that produces 180 lb-ft (245 Nm) of torque, allowing for a 0-60 mph (97 km/h) acceleration time of 8.2 seconds. The vehicle is equipped with a 52-kWh battery pack, delivering a claimed range of 242 miles (389 km). When it comes to charging, the EV supports DC fast charging at up to 100 kW, which can replenish the battery from 15% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes.
Practicality and safety remain uncompromised despite the open-top design. The Plein Sud maintains the standard model's 14.8-cubic-foot (420-liter) trunk capacity. It also integrates a comprehensive suite of 28 safety systems, including an emergency stop system and a driver-drowsiness monitoring camera, ensuring full compliance with the European Union’s latest GSR2.3 safety standards.
Pricing and Trim Levels
Orders for the Renault 4 Plein Sud - whose name translates to "due south," referencing the sunniest direction in the Northern Hemisphere - are currently open, with initial deliveries expected in the third quarter of this year. The lineup is split into two distinct configurations:
- Techno+ Trim (£27,445 / ~US$37,140): The base model includes 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and part-leatherette upholstery. Tech features include a 10-inch Google-powered central touchscreen, wireless smartphone mirroring, wireless phone charging, adaptive cruise control, and hands-free park assist.
- Iconic+ Trim (£29,445 / ~US$39,850): The premium tier upgrades the exterior with bespoke black alloy wheels and a powered tailgate. Inside, it adds heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, contrasting yellow interior accents, and an expanded suite of advanced driver-assistance features.
The Strategic Middle Ground of Compact EVs
The introduction of the Plein Sud highlights a clever positioning strategy by Renault in an increasingly crowded European EV market. While the Fiat 500e leans heavily into being a pure fashion accessory and the MINI Cooper Electric targets the premium urban demographic, the Renault 4 E-Tech occupies a highly practical middle ground. It offers more utility and cargo space than the Fiat, while undercutting the premium pricing of the MINI.
Furthermore, by introducing a tangible, emotional hardware feature - the folding fabric roof - Renault is differentiating itself from budget-focused competitors like the Citroën ë-C3, which compete almost entirely on price. In a market where battery specs and screen sizes are plateauing, physical design quirks that alter the actual driving experience are becoming the most effective way to build brand loyalty and justify mid-tier pricing.
