Renault has announced the Renault 5 Turbo 3E as a production model, marking a significant revival of a sports car legacy. The announcement was made through an unexpected reveal at the end of the fourth episode of the documentary series Anatomy of a Comeback, available on Prime Video starting December 13. This series explores the transformation of Renault Group following its recent financial and operational crisis, culminating in the launch of the Renaulution roadmap.
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E is an all-electric reinterpretation of the Renault 5 Turbo and Turbo 2 from the 1980s. It retains the rear-wheel-drive configuration of its predecessors while incorporating modern electric performance. The vehicle features two electric motors on the rear wheels, delivering a combined output exceeding 500 horsepower. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds, matching the performance of many high-performance vehicles. A carbon superstructure ensures a lightweight yet rigid build, emphasizing its motorsport-inspired design.
The car takes styling cues from rally cars of the early 1980s, combining retro aesthetics with modern engineering. The electric charging port is discreetly integrated into one of the rear air intakes, further emphasizing its retro-futuristic design. Originally previewed as a show car at the 2022 Paris Motor Show, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E continues to evolve toward production.
The announcement highlights Renault’s innovation strategy, using the documentary format to provide a unique glimpse into its design and production processes. Renault plans additional promotional activities in 2025 to build anticipation for this model. The Renault 5 Turbo 3E is part of the brand’s efforts to bridge its storied past with a sustainable, high-performance future.