Renault Zoe
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for an electric car that makes the switch from petrol seem effortless? The Renault Zoe might be exactly what you need. This compact electric hatchback has been quietly revolutionising city driving since 2013, offering zero emissions motoring without the complexity you might expect. It’s the car for people who want to go electric without compromising on practicality or breaking the bank.

From day one, the Zoe was designed specifically as an electric vehicle, not converted from a petrol car. This shows in everything from its aerodynamic shape to its spacious interior that makes clever use of every inch. Unlike early electric cars that felt like science experiments, the Zoe drives and feels like any other small hatchback. It competes directly with traditional rivals like the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo, but with the added benefit of silent, emission free driving.

The real appeal of the Zoe is how normal it makes electric driving feel. The interior is comfortable and well equipped, with everything you’d expect from a modern small car. Charging is straightforward, and the latest versions offer enough range for most daily needs. While it may not have the badge prestige of some premium rivals, it delivers genuine electric mobility at a sensible price. It proves that going electric doesn’t have to mean sacrificing practicality or comfort.

What's the Renault Zoe Like to Drive?

The Renault Zoe offers smooth and refined electric driving that feels surprisingly natural. The latest models produce around 135 horsepower from their electric motor, delivering instant torque that makes city driving effortless. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 9.5 seconds, which is perfectly adequate for daily driving. The immediate response when you press the accelerator makes overtaking and merging onto motorways feel confident and controlled.

Where the Zoe really excels is in its driving refinement. The electric motor is virtually silent, creating a serene cabin environment that makes every journey more relaxing. The steering is light and precise at low speeds, making parking in tight city spaces a breeze. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, soaking up road imperfections effectively. The regenerative braking system takes some getting used to, but soon becomes second nature, helping to extend the car’s range while reducing brake wear.

Inside the Renault Zoe: Comfort & Features

Step inside the Zoe and you’ll find a surprisingly spacious and well designed cabin. The dashboard is clean and modern, with a central touchscreen that controls most functions including navigation and charging information. The materials feel solid for the class, with soft touch surfaces where your hands naturally rest. Everything from the gear selector to the climate controls operates with satisfying precision that gives the interior a quality feel.

The front seats offer good support and comfort, even on longer journeys. There’s plenty of adjustment to help drivers of different heights find their ideal position. The cabin is remarkably quiet thanks to the lack of engine noise, making conversations easier and reducing fatigue. Standard equipment includes smartphone connectivity and air conditioning. Higher specification models add features like a digital instrument cluster and premium audio system that enhance the modern, tech forward atmosphere.

The Renault Zoe succeeds in making electric driving accessible and affordable. It delivers a genuinely practical electric car experience without the premium price tag of many rivals. The impressive range of up to 395 miles addresses the main concern most people have about electric cars. The interior is well designed and comfortable, while the driving experience feels refined and mature.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Renault Zoe Expensive to Run?

As an electric car, the Zoe offers exceptional running costs that can save you money every month. Electricity is significantly cheaper than petrol or diesel, with many owners reporting running costs of just a few pence per mile. Home charging overnight on an economy tariff can cost as little as £3 to £5 for a full charge. Public rapid charging is more expensive but still cheaper than filling a conventional car with fuel.

The main financial consideration is the initial purchase price, though government grants and manufacturer incentives can help reduce this. Electric cars are exempt from road tax and congestion charges in many cities, adding to the savings. Servicing costs are typically lower than conventional cars due to fewer moving parts. Insurance premiums are reasonable, and many insurers offer discounts for electric vehicles. When combined with car finance options specifically designed for electric cars, the Zoe becomes an affordable way to go electric.

Renault Zoe Practicality & Boot Space

For a small electric car, the Zoe offers good practical credentials. The 338 litre boot is competitive for the class, easily accommodating a weekly shop or holiday luggage for two people. The rear seats fold down to create a larger cargo area when needed. The car’s upright design maximises interior space, making it feel roomier than its compact exterior dimensions suggest.

The Zoe works best as a car for singles, couples, or small families who mainly drive in urban areas. Rear seat space is adequate for children or shorter adults on occasional trips, but taller passengers might find legroom tight on longer journeys. The real strength lies in city driving, where the compact dimensions make parking easy and the electric drivetrain eliminates emissions. For families considering used Renault cars, the Zoe represents excellent value for electric motoring without the size penalty of larger EVs.

The Renault Zoe stands out as one of the most practical and affordable electric cars available today. It combines impressive range, low running costs, and genuine everyday usability in a compact package that works brilliantly for city driving. The refinement and quietness of electric driving make every journey more pleasant, while the comprehensive standard equipment ensures you don’t feel like you’re missing out.

You choose the Zoe because you want to go electric without the complications or high costs often associated with EVs. Its sensible approach to electric motoring, combined with Renault’s experience in the EV market, makes it a smart choice for first time electric car buyers. If you’re looking for an electric car that simply gets on with the job, the Zoe should be high on your list, especially with cars under £10,000 offering excellent entry points to electric motoring.