Renault 4 'Plein Sud'

Renault

The Renault 4 E-Tech electric is gaining a new open-air variant in the UK with the arrival of the ‘Plein Sud’, a version fitted with a full-length electrically operated canvas roof. Prices start from £27,445 on the road after the Government’s Electric Car Grant, with order books opening to the public on 14 May.

Available in techno+ and iconic+ trims, the new model draws inspiration from one of the original Renault 4's defining features while giving the compact EV a more lifestyle-focused edge. Renault says the Plein Sud is currently the only electric car in its segment to offer a fully opening canvas roof.

The retractable roof can be operated using either a one-touch switch or Renault’s Reno voice assistant, and opens to create an 80 x 92cm aperture that stretches across much of the cabin. The fabric roof folds back into three sections and can also be stopped at intermediate positions, depending on how much airflow occupants want.

Despite the addition of the canvas roof, Renault claims practicality has not been compromised. Boot space remains unchanged from the standard Renault 4 E-Tech electric, offering up to 1,350 litres with the rear seats folded, while headroom is said to be only minimally affected. Removing the roof bars and the shark-fin aerial maximises the opening size.

Power comes from the same 52kWh battery and 150hp electric motor used elsewhere in the Renault 4 E-Tech range. Renault quotes a WLTP range of up to 242 miles, while DC rapid charging at up to 100kW can replenish the battery from 15 to 80 per cent in around 30 minutes. One-pedal driving is also fitted as standard.

The Renault 4 E-Tech electric continues to prioritise usability. A relatively low loading lip and wide-opening tailgate are intended to make everyday access easier. At the same time, suspension tuning and 181mm of ground clearance are designed to preserve the original Renault 4's reputation for comfort and versatility.

Inside, all versions feature Renault’s OpenR Link infotainment system with Google built in, pairing a 10-inch central touchscreen with a 10.3-inch digital driver display. Google Maps route planning with charging optimisation is included, alongside access to a range of apps.

The arrival of the Plein Sud also coincides with updates to the wider Renault 4 E-Tech electric range, including compliance with the latest GSR2.3 safety regulations. Renault has added new driver-assistance and monitoring features, including a fatigue-detection system and an emergency stop assist function that can bring the vehicle to a halt if the driver becomes unresponsive.

Buyers will also be offered a wider range of personalisation options, including new graphics packs and six exterior paint finishes. Among them is Hauts-de-France Green, a colour intended as a modern nod to the blue shades associated with the classic Renault 4 of the 1960s.

The Plein Sud carries a £1,500 premium over equivalent fixed-roof versions. First UK deliveries are expected during the third quarter of 2026.