2017 RENAULT ZOE 41KWH REVIEW

EV Channels Review

The 2017 Renault Zoe with the 41kWh battery upgrade is reviewed, with the hosts finding it a competent city car and a potentially good first EV, but ultimately falling short as a second EV or for longer journeys. Key criticisms include a lack of improvement in regenerative braking, noticeable vat pump noise, and a skittish ride on poorer surfaces. While the interior is described as simple and tidy, the seats are deemed uncomfortable with poor side support, and rear headroom is limited. Real-world range is significantly lower than the NEDC rating, with hosts estimating around 130-150 miles, making the cost of public charging (£18 for a full charge on Ecotricity) prohibitively expensive compared to home charging or internal combustion engine alternatives. Despite some refinements over previous models, the reviewers feel the improvements are not substantial enough to justify the price, especially when compared to rivals like the BMW i3, Hyundai Ioniq, and Nissan Leaf, leading to a "thumbs down" verdict for their personal purchase considerations.