The forthcoming Renault 4 is likely to offer a four-wheel-drive option, helping it to stand out in the market for baby all-electric SUVs.
The information provided suggests that the upcoming Renault 4 model, built on the AmpR Small platform shared with the Renault 5, is likely to have a multi-link rear axle that allows space for an additional electric drive unit. While most versions of the Renault 4 are expected to be front-wheel drive, the architecture is designed to accommodate four-wheel drive.
Vittorio d’Arienzo, the chief of the AmpR Small platform division, mentioned that the design, including the multi-link rear axle, was necessary to accommodate the larger battery packs of the Renault 5. Frédéric Morelle, the engineering lead on the Renault 5 project, stated that the Renault 4 will use the same platform as the Renault 5 but needs a multi-link rear axle for a specific Unique Selling Proposition (USP). The USP could involve better rough-road ability or, as hinted, potentially four-wheel drive.
The possibility of a four-wheel-drive version of the Renault 4 could align with the model’s historical connection to motorsport, particularly the Dakar rally raids where a four-wheel-drive version called the Renault 4 Sinpar participated. This move would differentiate the Renault 4 from the Renault 5 and capitalise on the rugged image presented by the 4Ever Trophy concept car showcased at the 2022 Paris Motor Show. If implemented, the all-wheel-drive technology would position the Renault 4 as a unique model in the market, as most baby electric SUVs launched so far have been two-wheel drive.