Tag Archives: Renault

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Renault Megane E-Tech Set for Major Facelift in 2026 to Stay Ahead in EV Race

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Renault is preparing to give its all-electric Megane E-Tech a significant mid-cycle refresh in 2026, aiming to keep the stylish crossover relevant in a fast-evolving EV landscape. The facelift comes five years after the model first debuted and is expected to bring a raft of design and technical upgrades that will enhance its competitiveness against newer electric rivals.

While the French automaker has already introduced incremental updates — including one-pedal driving, Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capabilities, and a sportier Esprit Alpine trim — these have only been precursors to a more substantial redesign now in the pipeline.

Spy shots captured during recent road tests hint at a refreshed exterior that draws inspiration from Renault’s latest design language, seen on models like the Scenic E-Tech, Clio, and Captur. Notable updates include slimmer LED headlights, a reimagined front grille, and a more streamlined front bumper. The side profile is expected to remain largely the same, though new alloy wheels and fresh color options are likely. The rear will also benefit from updated LED taillight graphics and a reworked bumper.

Inside, changes are expected to be minimal. The Megane E-Tech was the first Renault model to debut the brand’s Google-powered OpenR infotainment system and advanced digital cockpit — features that still feel modern and have since been integrated across Renault’s range.

Under the surface, however, the Megane E-Tech will see its most meaningful enhancements. Renault is planning to swap out the current 40 kWh and 60 kWh LG Chem battery packs — which are currently imported — for new ones sourced from AESC’s factory in Douai, France. These new packs are anticipated to boost the vehicle’s range beyond the current 470 km (290 miles), offering greater peace of mind for long-distance drivers.

The facelift could also introduce faster charging capabilities, potentially bringing 150 kW DC fast charging to the lineup, similar to what’s expected on the upcoming Nissan Leaf, which shares the same CMF-EV platform.

Details about potential powertrain updates remain unclear. The existing Megane E-Tech offers two electric motor options: a 129 hp (96 kW) version and a more powerful 215 hp (160 kW) variant. However, the high-performance three-motor system found in the forthcoming Alpine A390 — delivering up to 463 hp (345 kW) — is not expected to make its way into the Megane.

Renault is targeting a late 2025 reveal for the updated Megane E-Tech, with a full market launch scheduled for 2026. Looking even further ahead, the company is already developing a next-generation Megane, slated for release around 2029, underscoring Renault’s long-term commitment to electrification and innovation in the compact EV segment.

With these updates, the Megane E-Tech is poised to maintain its relevance and appeal in a fiercely competitive market, blending contemporary design, improved range, and smart technology — all with the Renault flair.

Source: Renault

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Renault CEO Luca de Meo Resigns, Heads to Luxury Giant Kering

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Renault Group is preparing for a leadership transition as CEO Luca de Meo announces his departure, ending a transformative five-year period marked by an ambitious turnaround and renewed market relevance. De Meo, who took the reins of the embattled French automaker in July 2020, will officially step down on July 15, with reports suggesting he will take on the role of CEO at luxury conglomerate Kering.

De Meo’s resignation comes as a surprise to many, especially given his widely praised revival of Renault through bold strategy, brand reinvention, and a renewed focus on profitability. When he arrived from SEAT—where he had previously driven a dramatic resurgence—the challenge at Renault was daunting. The company had just posted a record half-year net loss of €7.3 billion amid internal turmoil and an uncertain industry landscape.

Undeterred, de Meo launched the “Renaulution” plan, aimed at reshaping Renault’s identity and operations. He shifted the focus toward higher-margin vehicles, streamlined development timelines, and slashed underperforming models. A key part of this strategy was the emotional revival of the brand’s heritage, culminating in the rebirth of iconic nameplates such as the Renault 5.

Reimagined as a fully electric city car, the new R5 made waves in a market skeptical of EVs, thanks to its retro-inspired design, purposeful technology, and accessible appeal. It was quickly followed by a crossover reinterpretation of the Renault 4, and the much-loved Twingo is set for a comeback next year, drawing heavily from the original’s charm and practicality.

Beyond Renault’s core brand, de Meo also strengthened its Romanian sibling, Dacia, positioning it as a major player in Europe’s affordable vehicle segment. The Bigster SUV expanded Dacia’s lineup, and a new budget-friendly electric model—expected in 2026—will replace the Spring and be built in Europe.

Despite these accomplishments, de Meo has chosen to pivot his career. According to Le Figaro, he will become the new CEO of Kering, the luxury powerhouse that owns labels including Gucci, Balenciaga, and Yves Saint Laurent. The move marks a significant shift from automotive to high fashion and luxury goods.

“There comes a moment in life when one knows that the job is done,” de Meo said in a statement. “At Renault Group, we have faced enormous challenges in less than five years. We have achieved what many thought was impossible. Today, the results speak for themselves: they are the best in our history.”

Renault’s board of directors is now in the process of identifying a successor who can maintain the momentum and guide the company into its next chapter, especially as the industry faces continued transformation around electrification and mobility.

Luca de Meo, 58, leaves Renault not just as a skilled manager but as a visionary who reshaped one of France’s most iconic industrial players—and did so against the odds.

Source: Renault, Le Figaro

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2025 Renault 5 E-Tech Five costs under 25,000 euros

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After months of anticipation, Renault has officially unveiled the most budget-friendly version of its retro-inspired electric car—the Renault 5 E-Tech Five. Priced at €24,900 before incentives, the French automaker has fulfilled its promise to keep the model under the symbolic €25,000 threshold, although with some compromises in features compared to higher-end variants.

Positioned as an accessible EV, the 5 E-Tech Five is built on Renault’s AmpR Small platform, sharing its foundation with other R5 models. The basic version comes with a distinctive green exterior, full LED lighting, 18-inch steel wheels, 7-inch digital instrument cluster with 10-inch touchscreen, manual air conditioning, rear parking sensors, an electric parking brake, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. For those seeking personalization, Renault offers an optional black paint finish, a 22 kW charging cable, and an anti-theft system.

When it comes to the powertrain, the Renault 5 E-Tech Five is powered by a single electric motor with a 95 hp and 215 Nm of torque, paired with a 40 kWh battery. While performance is modest—0-100 km/h in 12 seconds and a top speed of 130 km/h—the car offers a claimed range of 310 km (WLTP) with an energy consumption of 14.6 kWh/100 km.

Charging is supported at 11 kW AC, with a 15-80% recharge taking 2 hours and 37 minutes. Buyers can opt for a 22 kW Type 2 cable as an extra, improving charging flexibility.

With this model, Renault completed its offer, spanning from €24,900 for the entry-level version up to €36,400 for the high-end 150 hp Comfort Range Roland-Garros edition. Thanks to various European incentives, buyers in some countries could drive home the retro-styled EV for as little as €20,000.

As Renault strengthens its position in the affordable EV segment, the 5 E-Tech Five is expected to boost sales further, potentially securing a spot among Europe’s top 10 best-selling electric cars this year. Renault’s move is also a clear signal to Chinese EV manufacturers, which have been expanding aggressively in Europe.

Source: Renault