RENAULT 5

First impressions have thrown up some surprises

- STEVE CROPLEY

There's been so much hoopla (justified) about the new Renault 5 that it’s almost a relief to start using our Iconic version as a car, as opposed to a rolling exhibit and a constant conversation piece.

Mind you, part of that exhibit thing is our own fault. We're the ones who specified this pretty little car in Pop Yellow - the yellowest metallic yellow you'll ever see, made all the more vivid by its contrast with a black roof.

You'll note I’ve called the 5 a little car: opinions vary on that. Being an EV, it’s taller than your old-school Fiesta or Clio because there's a great big battery beneath. And with the mirrors extended it’s just over 2.0m wide, which makes it about an inch wider than the current petrol Clio.