Renault Unveils Supercar-Rivalling Renault 5 Turbo 3E
Renault has revealed its high-performance Renault 5 Turbo 3E, offering supercar-level performance with drift capabilities and a rally-inspired handbrake.
Taking inspiration from the 1980s Renault 5 Turbo and Turbo 2, the new model features a custom rear-wheel-drive platform with in-wheel motors and carbon fiber construction for exceptional performance on rally courses, drift events, and track days.
The company positions the Turbo 5E as a “mini-supercar,” complementing the standard Renault 5 city car and Alpine A290 hot hatch. Despite its concept-car appearance, this Alpine-developed vehicle will enter production with sales beginning in 2027.
The Turbo 5E achieves its impressive performance through a lightweight aluminum platform and carbon body shell, resulting in a 1,450kg curb weight. Twin in-wheel motors deliver 536bhp to the rear wheels.
These motors generate 3,540lb ft of torque, enabling 0-62mph acceleration in under 3.5 seconds. The car can maintain its 168mph top speed for multiple laps before needing a recharge. With 800V architecture supporting 350kW charging, a 15-80% charge takes just 15 minutes.
The Turbo 3E features multiple driving modes for various conditions from snow to race tracks. It includes a rally-style vertical handbrake and “drift assist” system for controlled sideways action.
Despite its massive power output, Renault claims a 248-mile range from the 70kWh battery – matching the standard 148bhp Renault 5.
While visually related to the current Renault 5 and Alpine A290, the Turbo 3E shares only wing mirrors and tail lights with these models. Its body design evokes past Turbo models while delivering modern aerodynamic performance.
The two-door shell features an extended wheelbase with a set-back windscreen compared to the standard 5. Dramatically flared box arches surround 20-inch wheels, while oversized side skirts blend into a large front splitter and rear diffuser – all engineered for downforce. Side scoops direct airflow, cool brakes, and hide the charging port.
Square headlights directly reference the car’s petrol-powered ancestors, while low-set LED daytime running lights mimic the long-range lights of classic rally cars.
Buyers can select from several heritage-inspired liveries, including the yellow, white and black racing scheme from the Tour de Corse 1982 rally car, and the Rouge Grenade offered on original Turbo and Turbo 2 models.
The strictly two-seat interior features carbon fiber bucket seats with six-point racing harnesses and extensive Alcantara on seats and dashboard. Owners can customize interior trim to their preferences.
Shared with the standard Renault 5, the Turbo 3E includes a 10.1-inch instrument display and 10.25-inch infotainment screen with modern connectivity but an interface inspired by original Turbo dashboards.
“Reinterpreting the legendary Renault 5 Turbo and Turbo 2 is a bold challenge. We have preserved their exuberance and racing spirit while integrating modern technologies and optimized aerodynamics for the electric era,” said Gilles Vidal, vice president of design at Renault and Ampere.
“Every line, every volume expresses a balance between performance and character. More than a tribute, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E is a machine of sensations and emotions that everyone can personalise infinitely.”
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E will be limited to 1,980 units and will go on sale in 2027 in Europe, the Middle East, Japan and Australia. While exact pricing remains unconfirmed, it will start above £100,000.
