The Renault 4 Attempts a Historic Three-Peat!
- Published on 10/11/2025 14:41
- Modified on 10/11/2025 14:42
Renault could well make history at the European Car of the Year trophy with an unprecedented hat-trick.
After the Scénic E-Tech electric in 2024 and the Renault 5 E-Tech electric (tied with the Alpine A290) in 2025, the diamond brand is aiming for a third consecutive win with the Renault 4 E-Tech electric. A feat that, if realized, would be an absolute first in the history of the competition. Since its inception in 1964, no manufacturer has ever won the prestigious Car of the Year title three years in a row.
The electric compact is indeed among the seven finalists for the 2026 edition, selected by the European Car of the Year jury, made up of 57 journalists from 23 countries. A major recognition that confirms the consistency of the French manufacturer: this is the fifth consecutive year that a Renault model has reached the final. From the Mégane E-Tech in 2022 to the Renault 4 E-Tech today, the manufacturer has successfully turned its electric transition into a true driver of international recognition.
It’s not guaranteed
But securing a hat-trick would be a very rare achievement. In the history of the competition, only a few doubles have been achieved: Fiat (with the Punto in 1995 then the Bravo/Brava in 1996) or more recently Renault itself in 2024 and 2025. This shows how much a third consecutive victory would place the diamond brand in a unique position, worthy of a special chapter in the European prize list.
The Renault 4 E-Tech electric, however, starts with strong assets. Assembled in France, this modern reinterpretation of the iconic “4L” charms with its neo-retro design, generous interior space, and cutting-edge onboard technology. Offered in several versions, it provides up to 409 km of range and stays faithful to the practical spirit of the original 4L.
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It remains to be seen whether its charm will be enough to convince the jurors, and whether competition from its cousin the Dacia Bigster and the arrival of the Twingo next year might force them to show some restraint. Renault can believe in it, but a hat-trick seems highly unlikely… unless there is well-orchestrated lobbying. Verdict expected on January 9, 2026, at the Brussels Motor Show.
This page is translated from the original post "La Renault 4 tente un historique trois à la suite !" in French.
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