For years, Renault was the go-to brand for sensible, practical, and, let's be honest, slightly unexciting family transport. Think of the original Scenic MPV or the workhorse Clio. Well, forget all that. Renault is in the middle of a full-blown renaissance, swapping sensible shoes for stylish stilettos and churning out some of the most eye-catching cars on the market. It’s a revolution led by design, with a particular focus on desirable SUVs and forward-thinking electric cars.
This renewed confidence means the Renault line-up is broader and more appealing than ever. Whether you need a frugal supermini, a versatile family crossover, or a head-turning electric car that blends retro cool with modern tech, there’s a Renault with your name on it. From the funky Captur to the sleek Rafale and the genuinely brilliant new Renault 5, the French manufacturer is well and truly back on its game. This guide will walk you through the best of the bunch.
About this guide
The cars in this guide have been selected to represent the best options currently available. Our recommendations are the result of a unique three-part scoring system that takes into account real-world tests from our team of expert reviewers, ratings from real-life owners who live with these cars every day, and an analysis of market data from CarGurus UK to identify which models offer the highest percentage of good and great deals. This combined approach ensures our list highlights cars that are not only great to own but also good value to buy. For more information, scroll to the bottom of this page.
Best Renault Cars and SUVs 2026
- Renault Captur
- Renault Clio
- Renault Austral
- Renault Scenic E-Tech
- Renault 5
- Renault 4
- Renault Megane E-Tech
- Renault Symbioz
- Renault Rafale
1. 2026 Renault Captur
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.9% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Practical cabin with its clever sliding rear bench | Not as much fun to drive as a Ford Puma |
| Frugal hybrid model | Elements of interior build quality could be better |
| Excellent Google-based touchscreen system | Poor quality reversing camera |
By the standards of small crossovers, the Renault Captur excels in practicality. Its standout feature is a clever sliding rear bench, allowing owners to prioritise either rear passenger legroom or boot space. In petrol models, this flexibility means the boot can expand from a generous 484 litres to an impressive 616 litres. The cabin offers enough head- and legroom for four adults to travel comfortably, making it a solid family choice. Shoppers should note, however, that the E-Tech hybrid model's battery reduces boot capacity to a still-useful 348 litres.
The Captur offers a choice of efficient powertrains, with the E-Tech Hybrid being a particular highlight. It combines a 1.8-litre petrol engine with electric motors to produce 158bhp, delivering smooth performance and excellent fuel economy of around 64.2mpg. It’s especially frugal in town driving where it can run on electric power alone. The entry-level 129bhp TCe 115 petrol is best suited for more relaxed journeys. On the road, the Captur provides a comfortable and civilised ride that’s well-suited to family duties, feeling settled on the motorway and easy to handle, striking a pleasant balance for everyday driving.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Renault Captur is definitely one of the more attention-grabbing compact crossovers out there, and even more so when you consider the availability of the hybrid option." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
Read our full Renault Captur review
2. 2026 Renault Clio
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.3 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.1% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish looks and chic image | Rear seat space rather tight |
| Comfortable and easy to drive | Infotainment could be better |
| Plenty of tech available | Entry-level trim misses some kit |
The Renault Clio has long been a stylish and popular supermini, and this latest version, updated in 2023, continues that legacy. It offers a very grown-up driving experience, with a comfortable ride and good refinement that make it an easy car to live with every day. While it may not be as thrilling to drive as a Ford Fiesta, the Clio feels composed and drama-free, whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the motorway. The interior is chic and modern, dominated by digital screens and plenty of technology, reinforcing its position as a sophisticated choice against rivals like the VW Polo and Toyota Yaris.
Practicality is a strong point, at least for the petrol model, which boasts a huge 391-litre boot that’s bigger than many cars from the class above. It’s worth noting that the E-Tech hybrid model’s battery reduces this space to a still-respectable 301 litres. Buyers have a choice of two engines: an efficient 90bhp 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol, or the 143bhp E-Tech self-charging hybrid. The hybrid is the quicker of the two, but its 1.6-litre petrol engine can get quite vocal when pushed hard. For most buyers, the smooth and eager TCe petrol engine will be more than adequate for daily duties.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Clio provides a grown-up driving experience and some economical engine choices, and the smartly-trimmed cabin is dominated by digital screens and plenty of tech." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
Read our full Renault Clio review
3. 2026 Renault Austral
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 37.0% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Roomy and versatile cabin | Lots of road noise |
| Pleasant interior | Ride can be firm |
| Refined hybrid powertrain | Four-wheel steering can feel twitchy |
The Renault Austral is the French brand's entry into the fiercely competitive midsize crossover SUV market, taking on popular rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage. In the UK, it’s offered exclusively as an E-Tech self-charging full hybrid, which pairs a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with two electric motors for a combined output of 196bhp. It’s an efficient and smooth powertrain, and the Austral wraps it in a stylish package with Renault’s now-familiar C-shaped light signatures and a high-riding SUV stance.
Inside, the Austral impresses with a high-quality feel and a swish-looking dashboard dominated by two large screens. Practicality is a strong point, with a versatile sliding rear bench that allows you to prioritise either passenger legroom or boot space. At its largest, the boot offers a very useful 657 litres. While the hybrid system is impressively refined, the driving experience is let down by a constantly jiggly ride on all but the smoothest roads and a fair amount of road noise at speed. Top-spec models with four-wheel steering feel agile, but the super-direct response can feel a bit twitchy at times.
The CarGurus Verdict: "It looks good inside and out, it has a roomy cabin with fairly impressive build quality, the infotainment system looks swish and the car comes with an impressively smooth hybrid drivetrain." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
Read our full Renault Austral review
4. 2026 Renault Scenic E-Tech
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: Insufficient user reviews Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.0 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Roomy for passengers | Boot is an awkward shape |
| Good infotainment system with Google maps | Not as practical as a Skoda Enyaq |
| Useful range of more than 300 miles | Rear seats don't slide |
The famous Scenic name is back, but this time it’s attached to a stylish and thoroughly modern electric family crossover. A key highlight is its impressive official driving range of up to 381 miles from its 87kWh battery, putting it ahead of many key rivals. Inside, practicality is a mixed bag. Passenger space is excellent, with masses of leg- and headroom in the back, plus a clever centre armrest that doubles as a phone and tablet stand for the kids. However, while the boot is a generous 545 litres on paper, its deep, well-like shape and high load lip make it less user-friendly than the squarer, flatter floors found in alternatives like the Skoda Enyaq.
On the road, the Scenic E-Tech is comfortable and smooth, with its 217bhp electric motor providing more than enough performance for confident family transport. Where it really shines is on value and technology. Even the entry-level Techno model is packed with standard kit, including a heat pump for better winter efficiency, heated seats, adaptive cruise control, and an excellent 12-inch portrait touchscreen running Google’s intuitive software. This combination of a long range, a comfortable ride, and generous equipment makes the Scenic E-Tech a compelling and seriously smart choice in the competitive family EV market.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Scenic E-Tech is a seriously smart, capable and comfortable family EV, that matches great passenger space with lots of tech and one of the longest driving ranges available at this price." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Renault Scenic E-Tech review
5. 2026 Renault 5
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: Insufficient user reviews Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.1% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.0 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Attractive styling and general sense of fun | Real-world range a little disappointing |
| Impressive levels of standard equipment at a competitive price | Some slightly flimsy-feeling switchgear |
| Plenty of interior space for a small car | Rear doors could open wider |
The Renault 5 is one of the most exciting electric cars you can buy, blending iconic retro design with modern EV technology at a genuinely affordable price point. It’s a supermini that turns heads with its chunky, cute styling and vibrant colour options, but it’s more than just a pretty face. It’s a sensible choice, too, offering two battery options: a 40kWh pack with up to 194 miles of range, and a larger 52kWh version that manages up to 255 miles. This positions it perfectly against rivals like the electric MINI and Citroen e-C3, offering a compelling mix of aspirational style and everyday usability that few other EVs can match.
Beyond its looks, the Renault 5 is both fun and comfortable to drive. The better-equipped 52kWh model, with its 148bhp motor, feels nippy and responsive around town, with quick steering that makes it feel agile in tight spots. On faster roads, it’s impressively planted and confident, while the ride remains pliant and relaxed, soaking up bumps well. Practicality is another strong suit for a car of this size. The 326-litre boot is bigger than you’ll find in most rivals, and there’s enough room in the back for a couple of adults to sit comfortably. It all adds up to a car that’s not just a fantastic Renault, but one of the best small electric cars you can buy.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Renault 5 is a brilliant little electric car. It’s got the functionality, value and common-sense stuff sorted, yet it’s also good to drive and so brilliant to look at that it’s got real ‘want one’ appeal." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Renault 5 review
6. 2026 Renault 4
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: 4.1 out of 5 Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 26.4% Overall CarGurus rating: 4.0 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fun to drive | Rear seat space could be better |
| Characterful interior | Heated seats reserved for the most expensive model |
| Smart retro styling | Wind noise at higher speeds |
The Renault 4 is back, and it's been reimagined for the electric age. Slotting in as a compact crossover, it’s a stylish, retro-infused rival to the likes of the Fiat 600e and Jeep Avenger. It’s not just about looks, though; practicality is strong with a 420-litre boot that’s more generous than many alternatives, plus a handy underfloor space for charging cables. With the 52kWh battery offering a WLTP range of up to 247 miles and 100kW rapid charging, the new 4 is well-equipped for family life beyond the city limits.
On the road, the Renault 4 is a real charmer. Its 148bhp electric motor provides nimble and light-footed performance that makes it a joy to drive around town, while it remains composed and comfortable enough for long motorway stints. The interior is a highlight, blending retro design cues with modern tech like the excellent 10.1-inch Google-powered touchscreen. It’s a cabin full of character and interest, making many of its rivals feel rather plain and conventional by comparison.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Renault 4 is a brilliant small family car, complete with a very useful boot, a lovely interior, great equipment, and far more ‘want one’ factor than most rivals. It’s also great to drive, has a good enough range, and is priced about right for its class." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Renault 4 review
7. 2026 Renault Megane E-Tech
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: Insufficient user reviews Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.8% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Good to drive | Terrible rear visibility |
| Impressive infotainment system | Strangely shaped boot |
| Looks good inside and out | Some trims miss key equipment |
The Renault Megane E-Tech reinvents a famous name for the electric age, transforming the humble family hatchback into a seriously stylish electric crossover. It stands out in a crowded market with its flamboyant lines, intricate detailing, and a sophisticated interior that feels impressively upmarket. Higher-spec models feature a large, portrait-oriented touchscreen powered by Google, which is a real highlight, offering slick navigation with Google Maps and one of the best voice control systems available. It’s a compelling package for buyers who value cutting-edge tech and chic design in their electric car.
Beyond the style, the Megane E-Tech is both fun and practical. The 217bhp electric motor provides punchy performance, making it feel quicker than its official 7.4-second 0-62mph time suggests, while agile handling makes it enjoyable on a twisty road. For family duties, the 440-litre boot is generous on paper, offering more space than many rivals. However, its depth creates a very high loading lip, which can make lifting heavy items tricky. Despite this quirk, its blend of engaging driving dynamics, a high-quality cabin, and competitive 285-mile official range makes it one of the best all-round electric SUVs in Renault's lineup.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Renault Megane E-Tech is a very appealing option for anyone considering a small electric SUV. It’s stylish inside and out, it comes with a good infotainment system, it feels high in quality and it’s fun and civilised to drive." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Renault Megane E-Tech review
8. 2026 Renault Symbioz
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: Insufficient user reviews Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 38.2% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.8 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Standard full hybrid powertrain | Some cheap-feeling interior materials |
| Generous equipment levels | Petrol engine can be noisy |
| Big boot | Some of the tech frustrates |
The Renault Symbioz is a clever addition to the brand's crowded SUV lineup, slotting neatly between the smaller Captur and the larger Austral. It achieves this by taking the front half of the Captur and stretching the rear, creating a family crossover that's narrower than rivals like the Nissan Qashqai but still impressively practical. The boot offers a generous 492 litres of space, which can be expanded to a massive 624 litres by sliding the rear seats forward. A key selling point is the standard full hybrid powertrain, offering a level of electrification that many competitors only provide as a costly optional extra.
Under the bonnet, the Symbioz comes with either a 1.3-litre mild hybrid producing 138bhp, or a 158bhp 1.8-litre full hybrid petrol engine. The latter is the best choice for economy, with up to 65.7mpg possible. It’s a system that excels in town, where the Symbioz pulls away silently on electric power. However, the petrol engine can become quite vocal when accelerating hard on a motorway slip road. Inside, the cabin is well-equipped with a large 10.4-inch Google-powered touchscreen and digital driver's display, though some tech frustrates, such as the surprisingly low-resolution reversing camera.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Renault Symbioz fills the gap between its compact and mid-size SUVs, and serves as a rival to the likes of the MG HS, Nissan Qashqai and Skoda Karoq. It delivers on its core promises of enhanced practicality over the Captur and good fuel economy from its standard hybrid powertrain." - Chris Knapman, editorial director
Read our full Renault Symbioz review
9. 2026 Renault Rafale
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5 CarGurus user rating: Insufficient user reviews Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 22.0% Overall CarGurus rating: 3.7 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Spacious, user-friendly interior | Plug-in hybrid model is expensive |
| PHEV version is good to drive | Cabin can be noisy at speed |
| All models are well-equipped | Interior not as premium as some rivals’ |
The Rafale stands proud as Renault’s flagship model, a striking SUV-coupe that brings a dose of high-end style to the brand’s extensive line-up. It’s longer and wider than the similar-looking Arkana, with a bold, angular design that sets it apart from its more conventional Austral sibling. Designed to tempt buyers away from premium rivals like the Audi Q5 Sportback and BMW X4, the Rafale offers a similar vibe without the premium price tag. It’s offered exclusively with hybrid power, either as a front-wheel-drive full hybrid or a more potent four-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid (PHEV), cementing its position as a modern and sophisticated choice.
We’ve tested the range-topping 296bhp plug-in hybrid, which delivers impressive performance, sprinting from 0-62mph in just 6.4 seconds. It pulls strongly for effortless overtaking and can travel up to a very competitive 65 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for quiet, zero-emission urban driving. However, the 1.2-litre petrol engine can sound boomy when worked hard, and there's a noticeable amount of road noise at speed. Most models benefit from Renault’s ‘4Control Advanced’ four-wheel-steering system, which makes this large SUV feel surprisingly agile in corners and easy to manoeuvre in tight car parks, adding to its appeal as a versatile family car.
The CarGurus Verdict: "It’s a likeable car, the Renault Rafale. It’s spacious, well-equipped and has quite a distinctive character, both in the way it looks and the way it drives." - Leo Wilkinson, contributing editor
Read our full Renault Rafale review
FAQs
What is the best Renault for a family?
For families who need space, the new Renault Scenic E-Tech is a great choice, offering masses of rear passenger room and a long electric range. If you're not ready to go fully electric, the Austral and Symbioz are both practical, hybrid-powered SUVs with clever, versatile interiors. The smaller Captur is also surprisingly family-friendly, thanks to its sliding rear seats.
Does Renault still make the Clio?
Yes, and it's better than ever. The Clio was updated in 2023 with a sharp new look and an upmarket interior. It's a comfortable and stylish supermini that's available with an efficient petrol engine or as a clever E-Tech self-charging hybrid. A bold new sixth-generation Clio was unveiled in September 2025 but won’t be on sale in the UK until 2027.
What electric cars does Renault offer?
Renault's electric range is growing fast. The line-up includes the stylish Megane E-Tech electric crossover, the hugely practical Scenic E-Tech family car, and the brilliant, retro-themed Renault 4 and Renault 5.
What is Renault's E-Tech hybrid system?
E-Tech is Renault's name for its hybrid technology. It comes in two main types: 'full hybrid' (also called self-charging hybrid) and 'plug-in hybrid' (PHEV). Full hybrids, found in cars like the Clio, Captur, and Austral, use a petrol engine and electric motors to improve fuel economy, and can run on electric power for short distances. PHEVs, like the one available in the Rafale, have a larger battery that you can charge externally, allowing for a much longer electric-only range.
Are Renault cars reliable?
Renault's reliability record has been mixed in the past, but it has improved significantly in recent years. Newer models are generally proving to be much more dependable, and the brand performs respectably in most major owner satisfaction and reliability surveys. All new Renaults also come with a three-year/60,000-mile warranty for peace of mind.
Which is the cheapest new Renault?
Currently, the Renault Clio is the most affordable car in the brand's UK line-up. However, the all-electric Renault 5 also boasts a very competitive starting price given its desirability and chic looks.
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To that end, our expert reviewers come from some of the UK's most trusted automotive publications including What Car?, The Telegraph, Auto Trader, Electrifying.com, and Carbuyer. They put each car through real-world testing, and create detailed reviews noting performance in a range of categories, from practicality and driving manners, to running costs and reliability.
But we don't stop there when it comes to creating our best cars guides; we also analyse hundreds of thousands of used car listings on CarGurus UK to track which models consistently offer the highest percentage of best deals relative to how many are listed for sale. Then we factor in user reviews and ratings gathered on CarGurus to get feedback from people who actually live with these cars every day. Our best cars algorithm then creates a final Overall CarGurus rating that combines expert ratings, user reviews, and the percentage of listings on CarGurus UK rated as good or great deals. This three-way approach reveals not just which cars excel on paper, but which ones deliver satisfaction and value when you're ready to buy.
The CarGurus UK market data in this guide was last updated in February 2026. Values were accurate at time of publication and should be used as a guide only.
