Introduction
Nostalgia is one of the most powerful forces in the modern automotive industry. Manufacturers are digging deep into their archives to find iconic nameplates to electrify, aiming to inject character into what can sometimes feel like a sterile electric vehicle (EV) market. Renault has been leading this retro-charge with the critically acclaimed Renault 5, and now, they have revived another legend: the Renault 4.
But this isn't just a basic utility vehicle. The standout model in the lineup is the 2025 Renault 4 E-Tech 'Plein Sud' edition. Featuring a massive, electrically operated folding canvas roof, this variant pays direct homage to the open-air 'Plein Air' models of the late 1960s. The question is: does this retro fabric roof add genuine lifestyle charm, or is it simply a noisy gimmick that compromises an otherwise excellent family EV?
A Nod to Heritage: The Plein Sud Design
The original Renault 4 was a masterpiece of utilitarian design—a rugged, boxy 'blue-jean' car meant for families, farmers, and city dwellers alike. The 2025 reincarnation manages to capture that friendly, utilitarian aesthetic while morphing it into a modern B-segment crossover. It sits slightly higher than the Renault 5, offering a more commanding driving position and a highly practical 420-liter boot.
The Plein Sud specification elevates this design with unique summer-inspired color palettes, contrast stitching inside the cabin, and, of course, the fabric roof. Measuring roughly 92 by 83 centimeters, this roof is constructed from a heavy-duty, multi-layered canvas that folds back accordion-style at the touch of a button. When open, it transforms the cabin, bathing both front and rear passengers in natural sunlight and fresh air, instantly giving the car a breezy, coastal personality.
The Open-Air Experience: Performance and Wind Noise
One of the biggest concerns with folding canvas roofs is NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness). Renault's engineers have worked hard to mitigate this. At city speeds (up to 40 mph), the cabin remains remarkably serene with the roof closed. Open it up, and you get a delightful rush of air without excessive buffeting, thanks to a small wind deflector that rises from the top of the windshield frame.
At highway speeds (70 mph), however, the laws of physics take over. With the roof closed, there is a noticeable increase in wind rustle compared to the standard metal-roofed Renault 4. With the roof open at high speeds, conversation becomes difficult, and you will need to crank up the audio system. Still, for scenic weekend drives or coastal cruising, the experience is unmatched by any traditional panoramic glass roof.
Under the skin, the Plein Sud rides on the AmpR Small platform. It is powered by a 52 kWh battery paired with a 150-horsepower electric motor driving the front wheels. This setup delivers a highly respectable WLTP range of up to 250 miles. Around town, the steering is light and quick, making it incredibly easy to maneuver through tight streets, while the suspension is tuned for comfort, soaking up speed bumps with ease.
Interior Tech and Everyday Usability
Inside, the Renault 4 Plein Sud is a masterclass in clever packaging. The dashboard features a dual-screen layout: a digital driver display and a 10-inch central infotainment touchscreen running Renault's OpenR Link system. Because this system has Google built-in, navigation via Google Maps and voice commands via Google Assistant are flawless.
To match the eco-friendly ethos of the EV powertrain, the interior makes extensive use of recycled materials. The seats in the Plein Sud trim are upholstered in a stylish, durable fabric that feels premium to the touch. Legroom in the rear is surprisingly generous for a car of this footprint, and the flat floor means three passengers can sit in the back for short journeys without too much complaint.
Market Alternatives: How It Compares
If you are in the market for a stylish, open-top, or retro-styled electric vehicle in 2025, here are the key models you should consider alongside the Renault 4:
* Renault 4 E-Tech Plein Sud (2025) Approximate Price:* €35,000 / £30,000 (Estimated base with canvas roof option) The Verdict:* A perfect blend of retro style, modern EV range, and crossover practicality.
* Fiat 500e Cabrio Approximate Price:* €33,000 / £28,500 The Verdict:* Smaller and with less range (up to 199 miles WLTP) than the Renault, but its ultra-compact size makes it the ultimate city runabout with a folding roof.
* Mini Cooper SE Convertible (2025) Approximate Price:* €43,000 / £37,000 The Verdict:* A premium, highly engaging driver's car with a fully retractable soft-top, though it comes at a much higher price point and offers less rear-seat practicality.
* Citroën ë-C3 Approximate Price:* €23,300 / £21,000 The Verdict:* The budget king of the French EV market. It lacks the folding roof and the premium retro flair of the Renault 4, but offers unbeatable value for buyers looking for simple, comfortable electric transport.
Our Verdict: Is the Canvas Roof Worth It?
The 2025 Renault 4 E-Tech Plein Sud is not just a car; it is a mood. If you evaluate it purely on cold, hard metrics, the standard metal-roof version is quieter on the highway, slightly more aerodynamic, and inevitably cheaper.
However, cars are emotional purchases. The Plein Sud's folding canvas roof brings an undeniable sense of joy, freedom, and character that is sorely missing from the sea of identical electric SUVs currently flooding the market. It successfully bridges the gap between a sensible family crossover and a fun summer cruiser. If you do mostly urban and B-road driving and want an EV that makes you smile every time the sun comes out, the Plein Sud is absolutely worth the extra investment.