- Renault will launch the 5 Turbo 3E electric hot hatch in 2027
- The car is the spiritual successor to the 5 Turbo and 5 Turbo 2 homologation specials of the 1980s
- Production will be limited to 1,980 units
Renault is bringing the legendary 5 Turbo back to showrooms, this time with an electric twist.
After providing a preview of its new 5 Turbo 3E late last year, Renault on Monday revealed the electric hot hatch in full and confirmed the start of deliveries in 2027. Prices haven’t been revealed, but Renault said the reservation process will begin in the coming weeks in markets where the French brand operates. Production will be limited to 1,980 units, and given the specifications, the price tag will likely be in the six figures.
The 5 Turbo 3E is the spiritual successor to the 5 Turbo and 5 Turbo 2 homologation specials of the 1980s, developed for Renault’s rally car program at the time. The 5 Turbo 3E isn’t related to any racing program, but it still packs plenty of performance.
Although the 5 Turbo 3E shares its general design with the Renault 5 E-Tech electric subcompact hatch launched last year, just like the previous 5 Turbos—which featured rally-inspired mid-engine platforms—there’s very little in common beyond that basic link. Even the proportions are different, with the standard 5 E-Tech’s windshield moved rearward and the wheelbase extended here. The width was also increased to rival a modern supercar, measuring in at 80 inches.
The 5 Turbo 3E uses a custom platform designed for its rear-wheel-drive powertrain, in this case, a pair of in-wheel motors delivering a combined 533 hp, with each positioned within a 20-inch wheel. There’s also an 800-volt electrical system and a 70-kwh battery capable of charging at rates of up to 350 kw—enough for a 15-80% charge in around 15 minutes using a suitable DC fast charger. Regenerative braking tops up the batteries on the go and comes with four levels.
The curb weight is a relatively low—for an EV—3,395 pounds, thanks in part to a carbon-fiber body, and Renault said future owners can look forward to 0-62 mph acceleration in under 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 168 mph. Renault stated that the battery is good for “several hot laps” at the track, and with normal driving, a range of about 250 miles will be possible on the WLTP test cycle used overseas. A lower range would likely result from the stricter EPA test cycle.
Inside, there are bucket seats and six-point harnesses, with many components made from carbon fiber to further help save weight. A rally-style vertical handbrake is a nod to the 5 Turbo heritage, while 10.1- and 10.3-inch digital screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, respectively, add a modern touch. On the outside, Renault plans to offer the option of fully customizable liveries, including some curated designs that match historic liveries used on the original 5 Turbo and 5 Turbo 2, like the yellow, white, and black combination shown here, which was inspired by a livery of the 1982 Tour de Corse rally car.
The 5 Turbo 3E isn’t the first performance version of the new 5 E-Tech. Renault’s sister brand, Alpine, has already launched the A290 hot hatch based on the 5 E-Tech. The Alpine delivers a maximum of 220 hp and is already available in markets where Alpine operates.
