@ Renault Group Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Renault R5 vs VW Polo – Which model is better for everyday use?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Renault R5 or VW Polo?

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

R5 @ Renault Group Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

VW Polo has a decisively advantage in terms of price – it starts at 17000 £, while the Renault R5 costs 23900 £. That’s a price difference of around 6913 £.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Renault R5 has a convincingly edge – offering 540 HP compared to 207 HP. That’s roughly 333 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Renault R5 is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 3.50 s, while the VW Polo takes 6.50 s. That’s about 3 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Renault R5 performs a bit better – reaching 270 km/h, while the VW Polo tops out at 240 km/h. The difference is around 30 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Renault R5 pulls decisively stronger with 4800 Nm compared to 320 Nm. That’s about 4480 Nm difference.

R5 @ Renault Group Media

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, VW Polo is noticeable lighter – 1143 kg compared to 1447 kg. The difference is around 304 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW Polo offers minimal more room – 351 L compared to 326 L. That’s a difference of about 25 L.

In maximum load capacity, the VW Polo performs hardly perceptible better – up to 1125 L, which is about 19 L more than the Renault R5.

When it comes to payload, VW Polo barely noticeable takes the win – 457 kg compared to 418 kg. That’s a difference of about 39 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Renault R5 shows itself to be dominates this comparison and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £23,900
R5 @ Renault Group Media

Renault R5

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 122 - 540 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 14.8 - 15.2 kWh
  • Electric Range : 307 - 405 km

Renault R5

5 (1)
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The Renault 5 is a cheeky city car that marries retro charm with modern flair, its playful looks promising smiles before you even start the engine. Practical enough for daily life yet lively enough to make short trips feel like mini adventures, it’s an irresistible choice for buyers who prefer personality to bland practicality.

details

VW Polo

The Polo is a small car with surprisingly grown-up refinement, delivering comfortable packaging, crisp handling and a build quality that punches above its class. For buyers who want a practical, fuss-free hatch that still feels a little premium, it’s a sensible, slightly cheeky choice you’ll enjoy every day.

details
Renault R5
VW Polo
R5 @ Renault Group Media
Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
23900 - 137100 £
Price
17000 - 30400 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
14.8 - 15.2 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
307 - 405 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
40 - 52 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 g/km
co2
116 - 148 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
40 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
2 - 5
Seats
5
Doors
3 - 5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1447 - 1524 kg
Curb weight
1143 - 1378 kg
Trunk capacity
326 L
Trunk capacity
351 L
Length
3922 - 4080 mm
Length
4074 mm
Width
1744 - 2030 mm
Width
1751 mm
Height
1380 - 1498 mm
Height
1431 - 1451 mm
Max trunk capacity
1106 L
Max trunk capacity
1125 L
Payload
396 - 418 kg
Payload
432 - 457 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
122 - 540 HP
Power HP
80 - 207 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 15.6 s
Max Speed
150 - 270 km/h
Max Speed
171 - 240 km/h
Torque
225 - 4800 Nm
Torque
93 - 320 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
90 - 397 kW
Power kW
59 - 152 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
999 - 1984 cm3

General

Model Year
2025 - 2027
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
Renault
Brand
VW
What drive types are available for the Renault R5?

The Renault R5 is available as Front-Wheel Drive or Rear-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.