The Renault 5 Turbo from the ‘80s rises from the ashes, now with electric power, rear-wheel drive, and a stunning 0–62 mph time of 3.5 seconds.
Renault has brought back one of its most iconic models, the Renault 5 Turbo, but this time it’s an all-electric powerhouse. Dubbed the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, this hot hatch pays tribute to the legendary rally car of the 1980s while embracing the future of electric performance. It’s a bold step that merges retro styling with cutting-edge technology, and it’s already turning heads.
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E is based on the electric Renault 5, which features a design inspired by the original hatchback from the ‘70s and ‘80s. But while the standard Renault 5 is a cute, nostalgic nod to the past, the Turbo 3E takes things to an extreme level. The bodywork is wider, meaner, and packed with details that give a nod to its rally heritage. Think bulging fenders, chunky side vents, and aggressive spoilers. Even the livery—a striking yellow-and-black combo—harkens back to Renault’s racing heyday.
Underneath the dramatic styling is where things get really exciting. The Turbo 3E swaps the traditional gas-powered mid-engine setup of the original for a pair of rear-mounted electric motors. Combined, they deliver more than 500 horsepower to the rear wheels, propelling the hatchback from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.5 seconds. That’s serious speed for such a compact car and puts it on par with some of today’s best-performing electric vehicles. Renault hasn’t released details on torque yet, but the instant power delivery from the electric setup promises a thrilling driving experience.
This isn’t just a flashy concept car, either. Renault plans to put the Turbo 3E into production, though details about pricing and availability are still under wraps. What we do know is that it’ll be a limited-edition model, with a price tag expected to be far above the standard Renault 5, which costs around $27,000. For enthusiasts, though, the Turbo 3E is a dream machine that blends nostalgia with modern-day performance.
The Turbo 3E’s engineering is also worth noting. Unlike the original Renault 5 Turbo, which required extensive modifications to move its drivetrain to the rear, the electric motors’ compactness makes this new version much more efficient and flexible. Renault even promises advanced traction and power delivery systems to maximize the car’s handling and performance on the road.
Unfortunately for fans in the U.S., the Renault 5 Turbo 3E won’t be sold stateside since Renault doesn’t market its cars there anymore. But for those traveling in Europe, it might just be the most exciting rental car you could ever get your hands on.
In essence, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E celebrates Renault’s motorsport heritage while looking firmly toward the future of performance EVs. Whether you’re a fan of the original or just love the idea of a wildly fun electric hatchback, this is one car that’s bound to leave an impression.
Gallery: Renault 5 Turbo 3E
