Renault 4 Now Available with Folding Cloth Roof for £27k

Why It Matters

The new roof option differentiates Renault in the crowded compact EV segment and leverages government incentives to boost UK sales, while the added safety suite aligns with tightening European regulations.

Key Takeaways

• Plein Sud adds folding cloth roof for £27,445 (~$34,900)
• Range falls from 245 to 242 miles due to roof weight
• Meets EU GSR2.3 safety standard with 28 driver aids
• Techno+ trim includes Google‑powered 10‑in screen and adaptive cruise

Pulse Analysis

Renault’s decision to revive the iconic 4 with a modern folding cloth roof reflects a broader industry trend of blending nostalgic design cues with electric powertrains. The Plein Sud’s soft‑top mechanism, larger than typical sunroofs, offers an open‑air experience without the engineering complexity of a full convertible. By pricing the model at £27,445 – roughly $34,900 after the UK’s £3,750 electric‑car grant – Renault positions the vehicle as an affordable lifestyle EV, targeting urban drivers who value both practicality and a touch of retro flair.

From a performance standpoint, the Plein Sud remains mechanically identical to the standard 4, retaining the 148 bhp front motor and 52 kWh battery pack. The additional roof hardware adds weight and modestly disrupts aerodynamics, trimming the EPA‑equivalent range to 242 miles, a negligible drop for most city commuters. The 420‑litre boot and 0‑62 mph time of 8.2 seconds stay unchanged, preserving the model’s utility and responsiveness. These specifications place the Plein Sud squarely against rivals like the Nissan Leaf and Peugeot e‑2008, which lack comparable roof options.

Safety and technology are also key differentiators. The variant complies with the EU’s new GSR2.3 safety standard, offering up to 28 driver‑assist features, including a fatigue‑monitoring camera and emergency stop system. Inside, the Techno+ and Iconic+ trims deliver premium touches such as a Google‑powered 10‑inch infotainment screen, wireless charging, and adaptive cruise control. By bundling these features at a competitive price point, Renault aims to capture a larger share of the UK’s growing EV market, where government incentives and consumer demand for versatile, tech‑rich vehicles are accelerating adoption.