Renault Venture Edition adds a new specification option to the ZOE line-up

The ever-popular Renault ZOE has gained a new trim level, adding more choice and an additional price point into the model range. Bringing with it a reasonable level of equipment along with the tried-and-tested R110 powertrain and decent range, the Venture Edition should prove a popular choice.

Nestling in-between the bottom-spec Play and mid-spec Iconic specification, the Venture Edition now makes up the mid-point in the ZOE range for the R110 powertrain. Whilst not on a par with the more powerful, newer R135 version, the lower power combined with the ZOE's 52kWh battery pack means that buyers will benefit from up to 245 miles of range.

In terms of specification, all versions of the ZOE get a 10 inch digital instrument display complemented by a 7 inch EASY LINK infotainment screen. This provides control of the Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and USB device connectivity. In addition, all cars get air-con, auto LED headlamps and running lights, auto lights, automatic wipers and three years' subscription to Renault Z.E. Connected Services.

The Venture Edition gets the same 15 inch wheels as the lower-spec Play version, but also adds climate control, rear electric windows plus satellite navigation. Driver aids are also improved in the Venture Edition with lane keep assist, lane departure warning, high beam assist and autonomous emergency braking system.

Should customers wish, they can spec a Winter kit which adds heated seats and steering wheel, as well as the 50kW DC charging option, which adds up to 90 miles in as little as 30 minutes. At this speed, 80 per cent charge can be added in just 70 minutes – good for around 200 miles of driving.

Powertrain-wise, the R110 with its 109bhp and 166lb-ft of torque is punchy enough for most people, most of the time. Around town, a 0-30mph time of four seconds makes it a nippy and fun car to pedal, whilst a 0-60mph time of 11.4 seconds and top speed of 84mph makes motorway driving perfectly feasible.

On the outside, the new specification gains colour-coded door mirrors (with eight exterior colours available to choose from) and rear parking sensors. The warranty is the standard five year/100,000 mile for car and battery affair.

In terms of price, buyers will be able to order the Renault ZOE Venture Edition in mid-January at a price of £28,495 after the plug-in car grant. Renault is continuing its offer of a free 7kW home wall box for all ZOE customers – representing a potentially significant saving given the potential cost of installation.