Renault ZOE review - Range, charging and running costs

As a result of improving residual values for the Zoe, Renault no longer offers the well-established battery leasing option. Instead, the supermini is available under standard full purchase terms, which include the battery and therefore doesn't bring monthly lease payments. 

The key reason that battery leasing was initially introduced was to lower the initial purchase price and ensure the Zoe was as close as possible to that of an equivalent diesel car. With enhanced longer-term values of electric vehicles, Renault has taken the decision to simplify the choice for customers.

As with all electric cars, range is a concern, although the Zoe's bigger 52kWh battery gives a maximum range of around 230 miles under the WLTP test regime. It's worth noting that this figure will fall in colder temperatures and with the use of power-sapping features in the car such as lights, heating and audio equipment.

Renault’s three-year roadside assistance and warranty package helps minimise running costs, along with its three- and four-year servicing plans.

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Insurance groups

Insurance groups for the Zoe start at group 20 for the (now discontinued) entry-level R110 Play, and move up to group 23 for the R135 GT Line+. The costs are kept down partly because of the car’s unambitious outright performance, and partly because the mileage expectations are so low.

Depreciation

Expert data suggests the Zoe will retain an average of 50 per cent of its original value over three years and 36,000 miles. This is a marked improvement over the previous model and should provide increased confidence for private buyers.