The Renault 5 Turbo 3E will be a phenomenon as the French brand revives its iconic 1980s rally-bred hot hatch, now resurrected as a cutting-edge electric car. This limited-edition beauty combines retro design cues with cutting-edge EV technology, merging heritage and innovation in a fresh and compelling way. With only 1,980 examples to be made, this electric hot hatch promises exclusivity, performance, and a nod to Renault’s legendary past.
Design and Heritage
Renault’s production of so few units is a strategic attempt to make it a highly desirable collector’s item. The 1,980 designation is used to commemorate the year the original Renault Turbo was first introduced in 1980, giving each vehicle an added touch of heritage. Each vehicle will be individually numbered, adding to its collectible value for enthusiasts.
Key Features of the Renault 5 Turbo 3E
Here are some key features that make the Renault 5 Turbo 3E stand out:
- Retro Styling: The Turbo 3E takes its styling cues from the iconic Group B rally cars through square headlights, over-styled bodywork, and aerodynamic bits.
- Rally-Inspired Features: From its vertical hydraulic handbrake to its radical rear spoiler, all details are reminiscent of rally heritage.
- Contemporary Flair: LED lighting, carbon fiber materials, and in-wheel motors modernize the original design for the contemporary EV market
- Performance Highlights: Twin rear-mounted in-wheel electric motors produce an incredible 540 horsepower and 4,800 Nm of wheel torque.
- Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 270 km/h at the track.
- Battery: The 70 kWh lithium-ion battery has a maximum 400 km of range (WLTP), with both power and comfort.
Performance and Innovation
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E is built on a bespoke platform with a focus on speed, and thus it’s a real mini-supercar. Its compact size—4.08 meters in length, 2.03 meters in width, and 1.38 meters in height—gives agility without losing stability at high speeds. Its weight is around 1,450 kilograms, which is relatively light considering its potential performance.
Dimensions and Handling
Renault describes the Turbo 3E is establishing a whole new segment—the “mini-supercar.” Merging miniaturized size with supercar performance, it delivers exhilarating driving in an intimate package. This pairing of size and performance will probably appeal to both vintage-era enthusiasts and new EV early adopters.
Market and Availability
The limited series production of the Turbo 3E is Renault’s commitment to exclusivity and the artisanal touch. Since only so many are produced, the car is a piece of motoring history. The limited production of 1,980 units will render the Turbo 3E extremely desirable to collectors and automobile aficionados.
Price details for Renault 5 Turbo 3E have not yet been released, but industry insiders believe that this limited series car will be pricier than the standard Renault EV range. It will go on pre-order in the coming weeks before its release in dealerships in 2027. Potential customers are warned to act fast, as it is likely to be sold out in no time.
Conclusion and Impact
Laurens van den Acker, design chief at Renault Group, captured the spirit of the Turbo 3E in a few words: “Essentially there were no restrictions with this… All our dreams seem to be coming true.” This is the attitude that reflects the character of the Turbo 3E, which is not a car but an experience where past glory meets future innovation.
All in all, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E is set to redefine what an electric hot hatch can be. By combining rally-inspired styling with the latest technology, Renault has created a car that will appeal to retro fans and EV converts in equal measure. With its limited production run and trailblazing performance potential, this mini-supercar is set to make its mark on the history books. For those lucky enough to take one of these limited-production cars home, the Turbo 3E promises to deliver not just transportation, but thrills—a tribute to Renault’s heritage and innovation.
