Renault 5 Turbo 3E: Electric Power Meets Retro Attitude
Renault has reignited one of its boldest icons with the launch of the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, a striking all-electric hot hatch that merges 1980s rally flair with cutting-edge EV performance. It’s not just a revival — it’s a rebellion, designed to prove that electric vehicles can be as thrilling, cheeky and distinctive as their petrol-powered ancestors.
The Renault 5 Turbo of the 1980s was a motorsport legend, remembered for its punchy performance, disruptive spirit and unmistakable design. Now, over four decades later, the Turbo 3E reimagines that heritage for the electric age, bringing aggressive styling, serious performance and plenty of character along for the ride.
Electric Power, Rally Precision
Engineered by Alpine, Renault’s performance division, the new Renault 5 Turbo 3E blends lightweight construction with an attitude-packed silhouette. Its aluminium chassis, widened body and exaggerated wheel arches give it the squat, aggressive stance of a true rally-bred machine. Every detail, from the retro-inspired LED headlights to the oversized rear spoiler, channels the spirit of the original Turbo and Turbo 2 models.
The Turbo 3E may only be 4.08 metres long, but don’t be fooled – this compact car delivers performance usually reserved for supercars. Two in-wheel electric motors power the rear axle, producing a combined 403kW and 4,800Nm of torque. The result is electrifying acceleration, with 0–100km/h achieved in under 3.5 seconds and a top speed of nearly 270km/h.
Made For Thrills
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E is built for drivers who crave excitement. Its carbon fibre body keeps weight down to just 1,450kg, while a rally-bred drift mode, vertical handbrake and simulated ‘turbo lag’ bring old-school fun to the electric era.
Four driving modes (Snow, Regular, Sport and Race) allow for complete customisation, while regenerative braking can be fine-tuned on the fly.
The 800-volt system ensures rapid recharging, with the battery reaching 80% in just 15 minutes using a fast charger. Additionally, bidirectional charging allows this car to power external devices or even send energy back to the grid.
Iconic Styling With Modern Tech
Visually, the Turbo 3E is a masterclass in bold design. Its flared arches, square LED headlamps, aerodynamic scoops and wide rear wing are pure 1980s nostalgia – modernised for the future.
Inside, carbon-fibre bucket seats, Alcantara trim and Google’s latest infotainment system keep the cabin functional and race-ready, with digital screens delivering all essential performance data.
Customers can personalise their Turbo 3E with throwback colour options like ‘Rouge Grenade’ or bold rally-inspired liveries. The interior can also be customised, ensuring your car reflects your style as much as your driving preferences.
Limited Production, Global Appeal
Production of the Renault 5 Turbo 3E is strictly limited to 1,980 units, commemorating the original Turbo’s launch year.
Each car will carry an individually numbered plaque, making it as exclusive as it is exhilarating. Renault has confirmed availability in Europe, the Middle East, Japan and Australia, with first deliveries expected from 2027.
As Renault CEO Fabrice Cambolive puts it, “This isn’t nostalgia on autopilot – it’s proof that electric cars can stir the soul.”
While we await confirmation of South African allocations, this electrified icon is already making waves globally.
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