The Renault Zoe is one of the best-selling electric models in Germany and Europe. In the meantime he had to go to the main inspection several times. How does the small car fare there? Those interested in used cars should pay particular attention to the axle suspension, says the TÜV.
The Renault Zoe has become a bestseller over the years. At times it was the best-selling electric car in Germany. He held this top position throughout Europe until 2022.
body and interior
Available since 2013, the Zoe has undergone a number of changes over the years. While the first years were more conventionally equipped, the five-door model, which is a good 4 meters long, has been much more stylish since 2019. The reason for this was certainly the increasing competition from other electric vehicles such as the Opel Corsa-e. The extensive revision in 2019 not only brought the Zoe a few fancier body parts such as a modified grille and rear lights, but also an upgraded cockpit with better materials inside. The conventionally powered Clio was the inspiration for the facelift measures.
The space is quite good for a small car. In the front there is very decent space for tall people, in the back it is more cramped. But with the goodwill of the people in front you can also sit reasonably comfortably in the rear. The trunk volume varies between 338 and 1225 liters depending on the rear seat configuration. There is a small step when the backrests are folded down.
engines and propulsion
Like the looks, the engine range and battery size have undergone some changes over the years. Initially, there was a 46 kW/63 hp electric motor, but little by little the output increased to 68 kW/92 hp. The battery capacity also increased, from 22 kWh to 41 kWh and with it the range from 210 to 400 kilometers (NEDC). In mid-2018, Renault launched an 80 kW/109 hp engine that could be combined with a 41 or 52 kWh battery. According to WLTP, the range is 300 or almost 400 kilometers. Since 2019, this motor has been joined by an electric motor with 100 kW/135 hp, which is only supplied with the 52 kWh battery. It has a WLTP range of 390 kilometers. With a top speed of 140 km/h, it outperforms the other units by 5 km/h.
The Zoe, which weighs around 1.6 tons, does not become dynamic with any of the engines; Winning driving duels on the Autobahn should not even cross the mind of most Zoe drivers. For a small car, however, the engines are sufficient, thanks to a lush torque (210 to 245 Nm), the aggregates even convey liveliness. The average consumption is between 13.3 kWh (NEDC) and 17.8 kWh (WLTP).
Until the facelift, the Zoe featured a Type 2 connector for charging. The so-called Chameleon Charger (chameleon charger) enables single and three-phase charging with alternating current with up to 43 kW. For the newer models (from 2020) there is a CCS connection for an extra charge, which the Zoe uses to fill up with 50 kW direct current.
equipment and security
The Zoe models are well equipped ex works, for example, they have the “R-Link” infotainment system, automatic air conditioning and cruise control. In the higher comfort levels, electric helpers for the rear windows, leather steering wheel and 16-inch aluminum were added, among other things. A Bose edition with leather, DAB radio and a Bose sound system was available as extras. With the facelift, high beam, emergency brake, blind spot and parking assistants found their way into the Zoe. He now also recognizes traffic signs. However, not all assistants are on board ex works.
If the Zoe still got a five-star rating in the 2013 NCAP crash test, it failed the 2021 test. It was zero stars. The reasons for this are, on the one hand, the more stringent requirements for crash safety, and on the other hand, the fact that the basic version does not have an automatic brake assistant. In addition, the combined head and side airbag was replaced in the facelift in favor of a simple side airbag, which led to deductions in side safety.
Quality
In the TÜV main inspections (HU), the Zoe vintages have been taken into account since the 2017 year of construction, since this year there have been sufficient TÜV tests available for evaluation. Those interested in used cars should pay particular attention to the axle suspension. Wishbones, tie rods and coupling rods are heavily used. The lighting system, on the other hand, is inconspicuous, and the TÜV inspectors criticize the function of the stoppers on the brakes.
Conclusion
The Renault Zoe is a battery electric small car where buyers don't have to worry about the range depending on the battery size. There are already many examples on the used car market. It starts for models from the early days from around 5000 euros. However, the battery is often not included in the price, since the Zoe's battery was initially only offered for rent. In addition to the purchase price, there are also costs for battery rental or for the purchase.
