2025 Car of the Year: The Renault 5 is Ready to Electrify Your Drive!

The competition was tougher than ever, but one car emerged victorious in the 2025 Car of the Year awards: the all-electric Renault 5. This modern icon captivated the judges and stood out from a field of impressive finalists. Why did it win? The new Renault 5 is more than just a nod to its iconic past; it's a look into the future of electric mobility, packed with cutting-edge technology, stunning design, and a steadfast commitment to safety.

The Future is Now: Technology That Impresses

Step inside the Renault 5 and you'll find a car that feels alive. Its technology is designed to make every journey safer, smarter, and more enjoyable. The car features a suite of 25 advanced driver-assistance systems, including Active Emergency Braking and Lane Keeping Assist. Perhaps most exciting is the "Hey Reno" virtual avatar, a voice-activated AI assistant that can help with everything from navigation to climate control, making your daily life a breeze. With Google built-in, you'll have access to all your favourite apps and a seamless connected driving experience.

Style That Stands Out

The new Renault 5 masterfully blends retro charm with modern flair. Its bold, vibrant design harks back to the classic 1980s original, but with a sophisticated, contemporary twist. From its sleek lines to its signature "5" charging indicator on the bonnet, this car is a head-turner. Inside, the cabin is equally impressive, with a premium feel and a dual-screen setup that gives it a clean, high-tech look.

Safety Is Never a Question

The Renault 5 proves that a fun and stylish car can also be incredibly safe. It earned impressive scores from Euro NCAP for both adult and child occupant protection. Advanced safety features like Occupant Safe Exit Alert, which warns passengers of approaching vehicles before they open a door, and Active Driver Assist, which helps with speed and lane centering, give you complete peace of mind on the road.

Worthy Mentions: A Look at the Competition

While the Renault 5 rightfully takes the top prize, the automotive market is rich with excellent alternatives. These vehicles, though not the overall winners, represent different design philosophies and priorities that make them compelling choices in their own right. Here is a look at a few other standout vehicles that demonstrate the diversity and innovation present in the current market.

Tesla Model 3 Performance: The Popular and Impressive Electric Rocket

For those who crave thrilling performance, the Tesla Model 3 Performance lives up to its "electric rocket" reputation. The latest generation of this vehicle features a new drive unit that delivers a peak power of 460 horsepower, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a staggering 2.9 seconds. Its top speed is an equally impressive 163 mph.

The Model 3 Performance is not just about straight-line speed; it also features an all-new adaptive damping system and a dedicated "Track Mode" for enhanced handling and control. Aerodynamic enhancements, including a carbon fiber spoiler, reduce drag and improve stability at high speeds. With a WLTP driving range of 328 miles, it strikes a commendable balance between performance and practicality. The interior features a minimalist design centred around a large 15.4" main touchscreen and an additional 8" rear touchscreen, providing a modern and connected driving experience.

Vauxhall Grandland: An Impressive Car for the Budget

The Vauxhall Grandland is a compelling choice for a different kind of driver—one who prioritises practicality, comfort, and value above all else. The car is celebrated as a "practical family SUV" that offers an "excellent blend of practicality and value". One review famously compares the Grandland to buying a "six pack of plain pants" from a supermarket—not exciting, but undeniably good value and perfectly fit for purpose.

This vehicle offers a spacious and comfortable interior, particularly at higher speeds, with a generous boot space of up to 550 litres. It comes equipped with a good standard safety kit, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, providing a sense of security and confidence for family journeys. While it may not offer the same performance thrills as some of its competitors, its competitive starting monthly price makes it an accessible and smart financial choice for many families.

Making a Champion Yours with AA Lease

For many, driving one of these new, award-winning vehicles is a dream. Car leasing offers a flexible and accessible way to make that dream a reality without the long-term financial commitment of ownership. By choosing to lease, you can enjoy predictable monthly costs, the opportunity to drive a brand new, technologically advanced car every few years, and the peace of mind that comes with a new vehicle. The AA is here to help you explore the latest leasing options for the Renault 5 and other top vehicles, making it easier than ever to get behind the wheel of a champion.