Renault 5 Turbo 3E pays tribute to the mid-engined 80’s hatchback

Mar 17

Renault has been on somewhat of a mission to modernize its classic models, and the Turbo 3E is the most ambitious iteration yet. The Renault 5 Turbo 3E is set to pay homage to the legendary Renault 5 Turbo, which gained fame in the 1980s through its rally racing exploits. This striking new model, limited to just 1,980 units, combines retro styling with cutting-edge technology, embodying Renault’s rich motorsport heritage while embracing the electrified future of performance cars.

While the Renault 5 E-Tech already introduced a nostalgic aesthetic earlier this year, the Turbo 3E takes the retro theme even further with a motorsport-inspired design. Drawing inspiration from the original Renault 5 Turbo and Turbo 2, the Turbo 3E boasts a dramatically widened stance, aggressive aerodynamics, and a striking yellow-and-black livery reminiscent of the French marque's 1980s racing machines.

The bodywork has been extensively revised, featuring exaggerated rear fenders that mimic the iconic air intakes of the original Turbo models. At the front, squared-off headlights, a prominent bumper with LED fog lights, and a trio of slim air vents enhance the car's aggressive appearance. The rear end is equally dramatic, with a large diffuser and dual spoilers designed to maximize downforce.

Beneath the bold exterior lies an advanced all-electric powertrain that delivers staggering performance. Unlike the original turbocharged models, the Turbo 3E is powered by a pair of in-wheel electric motors, generating a combined 536 horsepower and an eye-watering 3,540 lb-ft (4,800 Nm) of torque. This immense power allows the Turbo 3E to sprint from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in under 3.5 seconds, making it one of the quickest hot hatches ever produced.

The car runs on an 800-volt architecture, enabling ultra-fast charging. Its 70 kWh battery can charge from 15% to 80% in just 15 minutes using a 350 kW DC charger, ensuring minimal downtime between high-adrenaline drives. Renault has designed the Turbo 3E for exhilarating performance on both the track and the road, incorporating a ‘drift-assist’ mode for effortless slide control and a top speed of 168 mph.

Built on a bespoke aluminum platform developed in collaboration with Alpine, the Turbo 3E achieves an optimal balance of weight and rigidity. Weighing in at just 1,450 kg, the car’s compact dimensions and wide track give it a go-kart-like feel. Renault describes it as a "mini-supercar," emphasizing its race-inspired capabilities while retaining the playfulness of a hot hatch.

Driving modes include ‘Snow,’ ‘Regular,’ ‘Sport,’ and ‘Race,’ with the latter unleashing the full potential of the powertrain. The car’s aggressive stance, wide wheel arches, and rally-derived engineering make it a true spiritual successor to the original Renault 5 Turbo.

Inside, the Turbo 3E’s cabin is stripped down for maximum performance. The minimalist dashboard houses two digital displays (10.1-inch and 10.25-inch) that provide real-time telemetry, while bucket seats with six-point harnesses keep the driver firmly in place. The centerpiece of the cockpit is a vertical, rally-style handbrake lever—an unmistakable nod to the Turbo 3E’s drift-oriented personality. Carbon fiber and Alcantara adorn the interior, reinforcing the lightweight, motorsport-inspired design.

While the car is undoubtedly focused on performance, Renault offers a range of customization options, including color schemes inspired by the original 1980s models and personalized interior trims. Each of the 1,980 units will be uniquely numbered, enhancing its exclusivity.

The Renault 5 Turbo 3E represents a bold step into the future while honoring the past. By combining high-performance electric technology with a design that pays homage to Renault’s rallying legacy, this hot hatch delivers an unmatched blend of nostalgia and innovation. Whether it’s tearing up a race track, dominating a drift session, or turning heads at a supercar meet, the Turbo 3E will be a statement piece that showcases Renault’s commitment to electrified performance. It sure ought to stand out in a crowd of mid-engined poser cars.

Yash Stalin

Yashwanth (Yash) Stalin has been sincerely passionate about cars for as long as he can remember. What began as a childhood hobby of simply naming cars on the road has grown into a career-defining passion. Inspired by years of consuming countless articles and videos, his love for cars evolved into a desire to write his own material and help others in the way those articles helped him. This ambition led to the creation of HEEL & TOE, through which he channels his enthusiasm and knowledge, providing readers with informative content about the automotive industry.

Renault 5 Turbo 3E pays tribute to the mid-engined 80’s hatchback

President Trump’s Tariffs and their impact on the American Car Industry

The new Volvo ES90 is barely a sedan