The small electric hatchback segment is heating up in 2025, with the Renault 5 Electric and Peugeot e-208 emerging as two of the most exciting options. Both EVs promise stylish design, impressive range, and urban-friendly performance, but which one is the better buy? In this in-depth comparison, we analyze their design, performance, range, features, and pricing to help you make the right choice.
1️⃣ Design & Styling: Retro vs. Modern
🔹 Renault 5 Electric: Inspired by the classic Renault 5, this EV blends a retro-futuristic design with modern LED lighting, sharp lines, and compact proportions. The boxy shape gives it a distinctive, nostalgic appeal.
🔹 Peugeot e-208: A sleeker, more aggressive hatchback with Peugeot’s signature claw-like LED headlights, bold front grille, and sporty curves. It has a more contemporary look compared to the Renault 5’s retro vibe.
Verdict:
✔️ If you prefer a nostalgic yet futuristic look, go for the Renault 5 Electric.
✔️ If you like sporty, sharp aesthetics, the Peugeot e-208 is the winner.
2️⃣ Performance & Driving Experience
| Feature | Renault 5 Electric | Peugeot e-208 |
|---|---|---|
| Power Output | 123 hp / 150 hp | 156 hp |
| Torque | ~220 Nm (est.) | 260 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | ~8 sec | ~8.1 sec |
| Top Speed | 150 km/h | 150 km/h |
🔹 Renault 5 Electric: Offers two battery options (40 kWh & 52 kWh) with instant torque for city driving. It’s lightweight and built on Renault’s AmpR Small EV platform, optimizing efficiency and handling.
🔹 Peugeot e-208: Slightly more powerful at 156 hp, with 260 Nm of torque, making it feel quicker on the road. It’s built on Stellantis’ eCMP2 platform, offering a sportier driving feel.
Verdict:
✔️ The Renault 5 Electric is great for efficiency and urban agility.
✔️ The Peugeot e-208 has more power and a sportier drive.
3️⃣ Battery, Range & Charging
| Feature | Renault 5 Electric | Peugeot e-208 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Size | 40 kWh / 52 kWh | 51 kWh |
| Range (WLTP) | Up to 400 km | Up to 400 km |
| Charging Time | 10-80% in 30 min (DC fast charge) | 10-80% in 25 min (DC fast charge) |
🔹 Renault 5 Electric: Offers two battery choices, with a maximum range of 400 km. Its lightweight build helps optimize range.
🔹 Peugeot e-208: Comes with a 51 kWh battery and a similar 400 km range, but it charges slightly faster due to improved DC fast-charging tech.
Verdict:
✔️ If you want battery size options, go for the Renault 5 Electric.
✔️ If you want faster charging, the Peugeot e-208 has a slight edge.
4️⃣ Interior & Technology
| Feature | Renault 5 Electric | Peugeot e-208 |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment | 10-inch touchscreen | 10-inch touchscreen |
| Digital Display | Digital cockpit | Peugeot i-Cockpit |
| Connectivity | Apple CarPlay, Android Auto | Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| Driver Assistance | ADAS, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise | ADAS, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise |
🔹 Renault 5 Electric: Features a minimalist, tech-focused cabin with a 10-inch infotainment system, digital cluster, and Google-powered software.
🔹 Peugeot e-208: Uses Peugeot’s i-Cockpit layout, which has a 3D digital driver’s display and sporty, compact steering wheel.
Verdict:
✔️ The Renault 5 Electric has a cleaner, more modern interface.
✔️ The Peugeot e-208’s i-Cockpit is more driver-focused.
5️⃣ Price & Value for Money
| Feature | Renault 5 Electric | Peugeot e-208 |
|---|---|---|
| Expected Price (Europe) | €25,000 – €30,000 | €32,000 – €35,000 |
🔹 Renault 5 Electric: More affordable due to its smaller base battery option, making it an accessible EV for urban buyers.
🔹 Peugeot e-208: Slightly more expensive but comes with a higher base power output and a more premium interior.
Verdict:
✔️ If you want affordability, the Renault 5 Electric is the better choice.
✔️ If you want a slightly premium feel, the Peugeot e-208 is worth the extra cost.
Final Verdict: Which EV Should You Buy?
✅ Buy the Renault 5 Electric if:
✔️ You love retro-modern styling
✔️ You want affordability & efficiency
✔️ You need battery size options
✅ Buy the Peugeot e-208 if:
✔️ You prefer a sportier, more powerful EV
✔️ You want a premium feel & faster charging
✔️ You like Peugeot’s i-Cockpit driver display
Both EVs are excellent choices in the small electric hatchback category, but the Renault 5 Electric is the more budget-friendly, stylish, and versatile option, while the Peugeot e-208 is for those who prioritize performance and premium feel.
🚗⚡ Which one would you choose? Let us know!