Renault 5 Turbo 3E: A Legendary Rally Icon Reimagined as an Electric ‘Mini-Supercar’
- Renault unveils the all-electric Renault 5 Turbo 3E: a bold reinvention of an iconic 1980s rally legend
- Dubbed a 'mini-supercar', it delivers 540 hp, 0–100 km/h in under 3.5 seconds, and blistering drift capabilities
- Limited to 1,980 numbered units, with reservations opening soon ahead of a 2027 launch
Renault has pulled the wraps off one of its most exhilarating creations to date: the Renault 5 Turbo 3E – a striking all-electric homage to the legendary R5 Turbo and Turbo 2 models of the 1980s. Blending retro-inspired design with cutting-edge engineering, this compact powerhouse promises to redefine electric performance for the modern era.
Set to arrive in 2027 with just 1,980 numbered units available worldwide, the Turbo 3E offers a glimpse into the future of urban electric performance, wrapped in a nostalgic yet forward-thinking package. This latest model sees Renault team up with Alpine, leveraging its sporting pedigree to create a vehicle that delivers jaw-dropping agility, stunning acceleration, and track-ready thrills – all in a car just over four metres long.
“This exuberant, over-excited model promises the best performance and sensations in just four metres of length – unprecedented in today’s market,” said Fabrice Cambolive, CEO of the Renault brand.
Electrifying Performance, Compact Footprint
Positioned as the first of a new class – the mini-supercar – the Renault 5 Turbo 3E is powered by two in-wheel rear motors delivering 540 hp and a staggering 4,800 Nm of torque. It sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in under 3.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 270 km/h, while still offering everyday usability and a projected WLTP range of over 400 km.
Its 800-volt architecture enables ultra-fast DC charging of up to 350 kW, meaning 15–80% battery replenishment takes just 15 minutes. The 70 kWh battery is positioned under the floor, contributing to the car’s ultra-low centre of gravity and razor-sharp handling.
Developed on a bespoke platform by Alpine engineers, the Turbo 3E features advanced driving modes, a drift-assist function, and rally-style design elements such as a vertical handbrake – all designed to deliver the visceral experience of a competition car, with none of the compromises.
Bold Looks, Retro-Futurist Design
Visually, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E is an unmissable presence. Every detail celebrates the spirit of its 1980s forebears – from square LED headlights and aggressive rear haunches, to its dramatic aerodynamic splitter and rear diffuser. But this isn’t simply nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake: the design plays a critical role in performance, maximising downforce and airflow efficiency for high-speed stability.
“More than a tribute, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E is a machine of sensations and emotions that everyone can personalise infinitely,” said Gilles Vidal, Vice President of Design at Renault & Ampere.
The vehicle rides on 20-inch wheels, hides a rear-mounted charging port, and uses a lightweight carbon fibre superstructure, keeping weight to a competitive 1,450 kg. It’s wider than a supercar, but shorter than most city cars – a truly unique combination in the market.
A High-Tech Cockpit with Classic Charm
Inside, the Turbo 3E is all business. Racing seats with six-point harnesses, Alcantara upholstery, and carbon detailing set the tone. Two customisable OpenR digital displays dominate the dashboard, styled to evoke the original Turbo models while offering full modern connectivity, including Google built-in services and seamless EV charging integration via OpenR Link.
Four customisable driving modes (Snow, Regular, Sport, and Race) allow drivers to tailor the car to their environment, while a dedicated power boost button on the steering wheel ensures explosive acceleration on command.
Built for Enthusiasts, Designed for Personalisation
With only 1,980 units set for production – a nod to the year the original Turbo was born – each Renault 5 Turbo 3E will be individually numbered, and customers will be able to choose their specific number upon ordering. A wide range of customisation options will be available, from heritage-inspired liveries to modern finishes, allowing buyers to tailor both interior and exterior styling to their personal taste.
This car will be sold in select global markets including Europe, the Middle East, Japan, and Australia, with reservations opening in the coming weeks.
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E isn’t just a tribute to a motorsport legend – it’s a bold declaration that electric performance can be thrilling, emotional, and deeply personal. It may be small in size, but it marks a giant leap in Renault’s journey to make EVs irresistible to driving enthusiasts everywhere.
