Renault Zoe

Taking forward the French flair with the Zoe, Renault has adhered to its traditional cabin styling. Still, in the world of EVs, they could have done better to keep Zoe distinctive for their EV fans. Also, the interiors are furnished with a mix of shoddy and good materials, that tangles the essence of the cabin and leaves you vague. Practically, the excessive use of plastics might downgrade Renault’s approach to the world of eco-friendly cars. From the buyer's viewpoint, at the price range of around $50k, the average interior quality might not charm them. However, on the bright side, front seats are supportive, and the cabin offers a good space in terms of headroom and legroom. While in the back, like other compact hatchback EV’s, Zoe is a little bit squeezy. The most surprising thing with this EV is, you’ll not get height adjustment function for any of the front seat. Though, that might not be a real issue with many of the drivers out there. But, still, at the price you are paying for Zoe, it surely lacks a bunch of features. When perceived as a daily commuter car, Zoe goes well with everyday requirements. As a compact hatchback, it offers a generous boot capacity of 338 litres which can be further extended to 1,225 litres with rear seats folded. The standard feature list includes climate control, 3D Arkamys audio, a 7-inch touchscreen, electric windows with driver-side anti-pinch one-touch function, EV-specific climate control, satellite navigation, and digital radio. 

Unlike other electric vehicles, the exterior of the Zoe isn’t shouty at all. The streamlined appearance is expressed with curvy lines which are crafted over the body from the front fascia to the side profile to the rear fascia. Moreover, in the front panel, the chrome front grille finish and signature headlights emphasise on the electric personality of the Zoe. With this, the front fascia echoes the futuristic approach of Renault while the eccentrically diamond-shaped transparent taillights with blue edges perfect the vehicle from every angle. Zoe is exclusively designed to reflect on the coupe styling, that’s why you’ll get the rear door handles concealed into the window frame. Though they are inconvenient to use for beginners. But with the regular use, you’ll get familiar with it. Talking about the length of the Zoe, it’s 4084 mm, a little longer than its non-EV sibling Clio, with which it shares the platform. However, the wheelbase of both cars is equal at 2588 mm. Renault Zoe gets the stylish and funky looking 16-inch black shadow diamond-cut alloy wheels. 

When paying around $50k for an EV, it’s natural for the buyers to expect enjoyable experience and ride quality. But, don’t expect wonders from Zoe, and you won’t be disappointed. In the front axle, McPherson strut suspension is installed. While in the rear, flexible axle works to give you a supportive and comfortable ride. However, when driving on poor surfaces, you’ll feel bumps. But as a compact hatchback riding on 16-inch wheels, the ride quality is somehow appreciable in city conditions. In terms of handling, you’ll get an electric-powered steering wheel, which actively accepts your response and performs accordingly. Even on the tight corners, the firm grip of the wheels ensures that you stay on the intended track.

Zoe is truly powered by the R90 synchronous electric motor which can produce exhilarating power of 68 kW at 3000–11,300 rpm and torque of 220 Nm at 2,500 rpm. The electric motor is matched with the single reduction gear auto transmission to deliver seamless power as you press the throttle. These numbers are enough to kickstart your day with agile acceleration. Zoe can sprint from 0–50 kmph in just 4.1 seconds while it can get from 0–100 is only 13.2 seconds. The top-speed of Zoe is capped at 135 kmph, which is also sufficient to shorten your daily commute time. With Zoe's new and enhanced battery, you can drive 300 km in one charge. However, in the winter, the driving range lowers down to 200 km. 

The braking power of Renault Zoe is backed by the 258 mm vented disc brakes in the front wheels and 9-inch drum brakes in the rear wheels. This setup works affluently and makes driving more content and fun. While the ABS, EBD, EBA, ECS with Understeer Control Logic work together to make braking perfect, every time you press the brake pedal. However, when it comes to the next-gen driving assistance features, Renault Zoe isn’t up to the standards, and that’s a little disappointing. You’ll not get anything like lane change assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic assist, and adaptive cruise control. Instead, the traditional tools of driving assistance are furnished with Zoe, such as rear parking camera and sensors, six airbags, and emergency brake assist.

Renault Zoe is the most affordable EV in Australia. Yet it’s fun to drive and offers excellent ride quality in city conditions. With its all-electric range of up to 300 km, Zoe can make your daily commute pocket and nature friendly. With Zoe, you can take the first step towards quitting fossil fuel addiction. However, there’ are some significant drawbacks of Zoe too. It includes average ride quality, cheap-looking interiors, and lack of driving assistance features.