Renault has resurrected a legend—but with a twist. The new R5 Turbo 3E is an all-electric tribute to the iconic Renault 5 Turbo, blending retro styling with cutting-edge performance. Unlike its turbocharged predecessor, this modern interpretation swaps combustion for electrification, delivering a monstrous 536bhp and an earth-shaking 3,540lb ft of torque. The result? A blistering 0–62mph sprint in under 3.5 seconds, making it one of the most extreme electric hatchbacks ever built.

Performance and Powertrain

At its core, the R5 Turbo 3E is a pure performance machine. It features a bespoke aluminum platform developed by Alpine, designed to handle the immense power generated by twin electric motors mounted on the rear wheels. This rear-wheel-drive layout, combined with a rally-inspired setup, ensures a thrilling driving experience.

A 70kWh battery, positioned low in the chassis for better weight distribution, provides energy to the motors. Thanks to 800V charging technology, the battery can be replenished from 15% to 80% in just 15 minutes when plugged into a 350kW fast charger. While Renault hasn’t confirmed an official range, this isn’t a car built for long road trips—it’s designed to dominate the track and carve up twisty roads.

Retro Looks, Modern Aggression

The R5 Turbo 3E may be inspired by the past, but its aggressive stance and aerodynamic enhancements make it unmistakably modern. The bodywork, crafted largely from carbon fiber, is significantly wider than the classic Renault 5 Turbo, giving it a more menacing presence. The windscreen has been repositioned further back, altering its proportions and adding to its dramatic appearance.

Renault describes it as a “mini-supercar,” and for good reason. It boasts a top speed of 168mph and comes with a range of driving modes, including ‘Snow,’ ‘Regular,’ ‘Sport,’ and ‘Race.’ The ‘Race’ mode even includes a ‘drift-assist’ function, making it easier to kick out the rear and slide through corners with precision—something the original R5 Turbo became famous for in rallying.

Stripped-Down Racing Interior

Inside, the R5 Turbo 3E is all about function over luxury. The cabin is dominated by carbon fiber, bucket seats with six-point harnesses, and minimal distractions. The dashboard is home to two digital displays—one 10.1-inch screen and another 10.25-inch unit—providing essential driving data and performance metrics.

One of the most exciting additions is a rally-inspired handbrake lever, designed specifically for executing sharp slides and tight turns. This further emphasizes Renault’s intent: the R5 Turbo 3E isn’t just a nostalgic showpiece—it’s built to be driven hard.

A Bold Step for Renault’s Performance Future

The R5 Turbo 3E is a statement from Renault. It proves that electric cars don’t have to be dull or soulless—they can be wild, raw, and exhilarating. By merging the spirit of a legendary rally car with cutting-edge EV technology, Renault has created something truly unique.

This is more than just a tribute—it’s a glimpse into the future of performance motoring. Whether you see it as a throwback or a revolution, one thing is clear: the R5 Turbo 3E is here to make a statement.