At the close of the previous year, excitement brewed over the announcement that the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, a contemporary electric reinterpretation of the iconic mid-engined 5 Turbo from the '80s, would see production. This enthusiasm deepened earlier in the current year during a Parisian preview of its finalized version and an in-depth look at its specifications. The price point, however, remained undisclosed until now, with the 5 Turbo 3E set to start at £135,000. Although this is substantial for a compact EV hatchback, the specialized nature and impressive specs begin to justify the cost.
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E features a custom aluminum chassis encased in a new carbon body, sharing only three components with the standard Renault 5 E-Tech. It also boasts being the first production EV with in-wheel motors, a significant advancement in electric powertrains. Limited to a run of 1980 units as a nostalgic tribute, it remains uncertain whether this costly engineering will influence mass-production vehicles. This project represents Renault granting its engineers the freedom to create something purely for enjoyment.
Its two electric motors, integrated into each rear wheel hub, are designed for lightweight efficiency and precise control. Each motor outputs around 268bhp, combining for a peak power of 533bhp. While the torque figure quoted is theoretically high, it still promises impressive performance. Weighing approximately 1450kg due to its materials, Renault anticipates a 0-62mph time under 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 168mph, placing it among supercar competitors.
A visual update of the original wide-bodied, mid-engined Renault 5 Turbo homologation special from the '80s, the Turbo 3E measures 4.08 meters long and 2.03 meters wide. Its design incorporates modern elements like a charging port hidden within a rear haunch vent. With all the power directed to the rear wheels, the car offers four drive modes, including track and drift settings equipped with a dedicated handbrake for controlled slides.
Inside, there are large carbon bucket seats with six-point harnesses upfront and no rear seating, instead providing ample cargo space thanks to the flat battery pack and wheel-mounted motors. The dashboard screen is borrowed from the regular 5 but features a unique user interface, while the steering wheel is taken from the Alpine A290, complete with an overboost button. Customization options abound, both inside and out.
Beyond the thrilling aspects, practical details include a 70kWh battery offering an estimated range of 249 miles under WLTP standards. Utilizing an 800V electrical architecture, it aims to enhance charging speeds significantly. Features such as four levels of brake regeneration and a Google Maps-powered route planner add convenience. Despite these conveniences, the Turbo 3E remains exclusive, without any Alpine branding despite their involvement in development.
Production is limited to 1980 units, reflecting the launch year of the original model, available across Europe and select markets like Japan, Australia, and the Middle East. Interest forms are now open for those keen on securing one of these exclusive units, with pricing accessible to the first 500 committed buyers when ordering officially opens. Specifications will commence early 2026, culminating in deliveries by 2027.
With its blend of nostalgia and innovation, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E not only honors its past but propels forward into a future where electric performance meets exclusivity. As enthusiasts eagerly await their chance to own a piece of automotive history reimagined, the Turbo 3E stands testament to Renault's commitment to crafting extraordinary vehicles.