Car of the Year Awards 2026: Best small electric SUV for value
Imagine not only being given a cash incentive to do your chores, but also finding that they’re a lot more fun than you expected. Well, the Government is offering a £3750 grant (the maximum available under the current scheme) if you buy a
sensible, practical Renault 4 (R4) – an electric SUV that thrives on mundane tasks such as taking the kids to school and picking up shopping.
On the practicality front, the R4’s boot can carry as many carry-on suitcases as the Kia EV3 and is bigger than the Volvo EX30’s, plus the handy underfloor storage area can be easily removed for cleaning.
And you’ll find it difficult to keep a straight face when collecting that cheque, because the R4 is a real joy to live with. It’s closely related to the smaller Renault 5 (R5), as you can tell from its nimble handling. Urban U-turns are a cinch, and its poise in rural corners will have you smiling. It’s as smart and modern inside as the R5, too, right down to the intuitive Google-based infotainment you get with Techno+ trim and above.
The R4 isn’t as posh inside as the EX30 or as spacious and comfy as the EV3, but as a value alternative, it’s well worth considering.
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