The Legendary Renault 5 Returns with a Bang: Electric Turbo 3e Outpaces Porsche
Renault is reviving a legend with the all-electric Renault 5 Turbo 3e, a modern reimagining of the iconic 1980s hot hatch. Demonstrations of the prototype recently took place at the historic Tour de Corse rally in kalvi port and Notre Dame de la Serra at Montegrosso, captivating an enthusiastic audience.
the Turbo 3e boasts impressive performance figures: 380 kW (513 horsepower) and a staggering 4,800 Nm of torque, delivered even quicker then a conventional electric motor. Its dual-motor setup allows for self-reliant wheel control, optimizing torque distribution for enhanced maneuverability and performance. Grip is ensured by front and rear hangers utilizing a double transverse lever system.
The prototype showcased at the rally featured a special livery – a black, yellow, and white scheme honoring the Corsica Rally, alongside a red, blue, and white palette paying tribute to Jean Ragnotti’s winning Maxi 5 Turbo from the 1985 Corsica Rally.
Behind the wheel during the demonstrations was rally specialist Julien Saunier, a seasoned driver with victories including the 2021 Alpine Elf Rally, the 2022 Historical Monte Carlo Rally, and the 2024 Historic Corsica Rally. Following his demonstration runs, Saunier also piloted the original Maxi 5 Turbo on the winding Corsican roads, and is considered a favorite for the 2025 Historical Corsica Rally.
Growth of the Renault 5 Turbo 3e has progressed rapidly, reaching this stage just seven months after initial delivery, with the homologation process underway. The car’s total weight is under 1,450 kilograms, thanks to a carbon fiber superstructure weighing less than 100 kilograms. This allows for acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in under 3.5 seconds.
Powered by an 800V architecture and a 70 kWh battery, the Turbo 3e features an integrated DC charger capable of accepting up to 330 kW, enabling a 15-80% charge in just 15 minutes. A single charge provides a WLTP range exceeding 400 km.
Reservations for the Renault 5 Turbo 3e began on April 22, with prices starting at €160,000 (including taxes, excluding optional equipment and personalization). The vehicle will be available in Europe (including the united kingdom), the Middle East, Japan, and Australia. Production is limited to 1,980 units – a nod to the original Renault 5 Turbo’s release year.
In early 2026, a personalization phase will commence, allowing customers to choose historic Renault 5 Turbo and Turbo 2 colors or create custom colour schemes. Customers will even have the prospect to collaborate directly with Renault designers to personalize exterior and interior elements, including seats, door panels, and the dashboard. Final configuration and ordering will be completed in the first half of 2027,with the first deliveries scheduled for the same year.
