Renault has stunned the automotive world yet again by giving us a closer look at the production-ready Turbo 3E. What was initially perceived as a wild concept designed to generate buzz around the Renault 5 E-Tech has now taken shape as a serious performance machine. The French automaker is fully committed to bringing back the spirit of the R5 Turbo, marking a dramatic return to high-performance models after scaling back its sporty lineup in recent years.
Supercar Proportions in a Compact Frame
Despite its roots as a compact hatchback, the Turbo 3E boasts dimensions that rival some of the most aggressive supercars on the market. At 2,030mm wide, it’s broader than a Porsche 911 GT3 RS and even a Lamborghini Revuelto. Yet, its overall length of 4,080mm keeps it within the footprint of a hot hatch. Renault claims the car’s length-to-width ratio of 2.01 is akin to that of a supercar, reinforcing its radical design philosophy. It may even remind enthusiasts of the legendary Clio V6, another mid-engined monster from Renault’s past.
The Turbo 3E is packed with nostalgic design cues inspired by the R5 Turbo lineage. From the squared-off headlights and aggressive side vents to the lip running along the roofline, the design pays homage to its ’80s predecessors while embracing modern aerodynamics. Functionality meets heritage, with vents on the right-hand side cooling the brakes, while the left-hand upper vent conceals the charging port. Classic R5 Turbo rear lights further cement its retro-futuristic appeal.
Bespoke Engineering and Performance Gains
Unlike Renault’s mainstream electric lineup, the Turbo 3E features an entirely bespoke chassis and a lightweight carbon fiber body. Weighing in at 1,450kg, Renault aims to shave it down to 1,400kg before production. The performance figures are equally jaw-dropping: a 540hp dual-motor setup and an astonishing 3,540lb-ft of torque (though EV torque figures should always be taken with caution). Uniquely, the Turbo 3E’s motors are housed directly within the rear wheels rather than an in-board setup, improving efficiency and lowering the center of gravity.
The Turbo 3E is built for pure driving excitement, whether on the road or track. With a 0-62mph time of under 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 168mph, it promises to be blisteringly quick. However, Renault acknowledges that its 70kWh battery will likely last only 15-20 minutes during track sessions. To maximize its drift potential, Renault has fitted a rally-style vertical handbrake, making it easier to kick out the rear end.
Inside the Cockpit: Merging Past and Future
While the launch model lacked an interior, Renault has teased renderings of the near-final design. A two-seater layout with a half-roll cage pays homage to the original R5 Turbo, but added cargo space replaces the absent mid-mounted engine. The digital instrument cluster mimics the classic Jaeger dials of the past, while the steering wheel, borrowed from the Alpine A290, offers four driving modes: snow, neutral, sport, and track. A notable detail? The passenger footplate bears the words “accroche toi!”—French for “hold on!”
Customization and Pricing
Renault is introducing an ‘unlimited’ personalization program, allowing buyers to customize their Turbo 3E extensively. With a starting price expected north of £130,000 and fully personalized versions exceeding £200,000, it’s clear Renault is positioning this as a halo model. Production is limited to 1,980 units, set for deliveries in 2027—a number that’s likely to sell out swiftly.
Renault has truly redefined the modern hot hatch, transforming it into something akin to a supercar. With electrifying performance, retro-futuristic design, and a rally-inspired driving experience, the Turbo 3E is set to become an instant icon.
