Which version to choose?
The low additional cost required for the most powerful engine (R135) should not make us forget that the Zoe R110 already offers very satisfactory performance. It is only on the fast track, for the revivals at the approach of 100 km / h, that the differences are noticeable.
In terms of equipment, the basic Zoe (Life finish, € 32,500) already includes 7-inch touch screen, “Full LED” projectors, manual air conditioning, Bluetooth, the “hands-free” card and cruise control / speed limiter.
For automatic air conditioning, the bench which can be split into two parts, the leather steering wheel, the lane departure warning, the recognition of traffic signs and the 16-inch alloy wheels, however, we prefer the Zen version (€ 34,200).
As an option, also count € 1,000 more for compatibility with 50 kW fast charging (full recharge in 1h10), and € 300 for a Wallbox charging cable (mode 3 type 2).
Qualities
According to the Renault Zoe TV spot, “driving electric doesn’t change anything, and that’s what changes everything”. A good publicity stunt, well found and not so far from reality.
Sold to more than 37,400 units in France in 2020, the small Renault, built in Flins, in the Paris region, indeed has a good electric range, close to 350 “real” kilometers, offering it a certain versatility.
Big evolution of the first generation appeared in 2012, this second version launched at the end of 2019 is based on the same platform and accommodates a 52 kWh battery. It comes in two power levels, 110 or 135 hp, the most efficient requiring “only” 600 € more.
Safe, livable, and more comfortable than before …
More comfortable than before, the Zoe, extended over 4.08 meters, is safe and livable: it is more welcoming to the rear than the Peugeot e-208 and Opel Corsa-e, its direct rivals. The same goes for the trunk, with a loading capacity of 338 liters.
The dashboard is classic and ergonomic, also benefiting from digital instrumentation. Finally, until June 30, 2021, the Renault benefits from the bonus of € 7,000 (€ 6,000 thereafter), an argument not unrelated to the current success of electric cars.
Defaults
Passion is not the reason we fall for a Zoe. Classic in appearance and interior presentation, with a questionable driving position, this Renault does not not the same excitement as a Peugeot e-208. Even while driving, it remains too serious to move, even if its frank acceleration in town is something to smile about.
A price / equipment ratio unfavorable to the Renault
We also regret a rather sparse endowment in the basic version. And the comparison with the e-208 and Corsa-e shows a price / equipment ratio unfavorable to the Renault.
As always with electric cars, it should be noted that home charging seems essential, such as installing a specific terminal. Without this, it will take about thirty hours for a full recharge on a household outlet. An eternity!
Plan just over nine hours with a Wallbox to be installed at home (minimum cost of € 1,000), and three and six hours, respectively on 22 and 11 kW terminals.
Notice
It’s not the most charming of all, but the Zoe remains the best-selling electric car in Europe in 2020. It owes it to its range, pragmatism and practicality.
Technical sheet
(Renault Zoe R110)
- Engine: 109 hp
- Weight (kg): 1 502
- Long.xlarg.xhaut. (m) : 4,08×1,73×1,56
- Max speed (km / h): 135
- Bonus: € 7,000 (€ 6,000 from the 1is July 2021)
- Chest 5/2 (l): 338/1 225
- Country of manufacture: France
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