Renault 5 Turbo 3E EV Pays Tribute To Its Rally Heritage

Renault’s bold decision to bring the 5 back as an electric vehicle has paid off big time, earning rave reviews and even the prestigious Car of the Year title. Now, they’re pushing the retro-electrification concept even further with the 5 Turbo 3E, a 535-hp (540 PS) homage to the iconic 1980s Renault 5 Turbo rally car. This wild creation is set to arrive in 2027, and it’s a lot more than just a tribute.

Built around a bespoke aluminum chassis, the Turbo 3E shares very little with the standard 5, apart from a few visual cues like the rear lights and door mirrors. 

Underneath its aggressive bodywork, you’ll find two in-wheel motors at the back, each delivering 200 kW (268 hp). Renault promises it’s got the chops for some serious sideways action with drift-assist technology and a rally-inspired vertical handbrake. As for acceleration, it’ll hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in less than 3.5 seconds, matching the blistering pace of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.

With a 70 kWh battery tucked under the floor, the Turbo 3E can cover up to 248 miles (400 km) on a single charge, depending on your driving style. And when it’s time to charge, the 800-volt system can juice it up from 15 to 80 percent in just 15 minutes, thanks to the 350 kW charging capability.

The Turbo 3E’s proportions are slightly different from the standard 5. With a 2,570 mm (101.2 inches) wheelbase — 30 mm (1.2 inches) longer than the regular version — and a repositioned windscreen, it’s got an even more purposeful stance. Developed by Alpine, this platform is likely the same one that will underpin the upcoming electric A110 sports car.

As for the looks, the Turbo 3E is absolutely eye-catching. The 20-inch wheels tucked beneath those flared arches give it an aggressive, wide stance. Vents cut into the rear quarters not only look cool but help cool the brakes, while upper vents channel airflow through the bodywork. The interior hints at its performance roots, with six-point harnesses, carbon fiber trim, Alcantara upholstery, and two large 10-inch OpenR screens for all your tech needs.

Renault’s color choices for the Turbo 3E pay tribute to the 1982 Tour de Corse livery, but buyers can expect a wide range of options, including retro and contemporary designs, plus plenty of customization possibilities. While Renault is tight-lipped about the price, we expect the Turbo 3E to fall into the junior supercar territory. Only 1,980 units will be produced.

Although the U.S. won’t get the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, fans in Europe, the Middle East, Japan, and Australia will be able to place orders in the coming weeks, with deliveries starting in 2027. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of owning a slice of Renault’s electrified rally heritage, now’s your chance—but you'd better act fast.