Do you remember the Renault 5 Turbo 3E drift car unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 2022? No worries if you don’t! While it certainly turned heads with its outrageous design and all-electric setup, it was just a concept car one of many wild EV prototypes flooding the market these days. But now, Renault is making the impossible happen: the Renault 5 Turbo 3E is becoming a production reality. And trust us, it might just be the coolest electric car ever created.
Let’s break down why this car is causing such a stir among enthusiasts and why Renault’s approach to electrification feels so refreshingly authentic.
A Blast from the Past: Honoring Heritage Without Compromise
Renault’s secret sauce? They’re embracing their rich motorsport heritage while charging headfirst into the EV era. Unlike some brands that plaster their electric cars with retro-inspired designs while missing the soul of the originals, Renault nails the vibe perfectly.
The 5 Turbo 3E is a spiritual successor to the iconic Renault 5 Turbo 2, a rally legend that defined the ‘80s. The Turbo 2 was famous for its turbocharged mid-engine setup and rear-wheel-drive layout a hatchback with serious attitude. Fast forward to today, and the 3E builds on this legacy while packing cutting-edge electric tech.
Why the Renault 5 Turbo 3E Is a Game-Changer
Jaw-Dropping Design
Look at the production version of the Turbo 3E, and it’s hard not to fall in love. Widebody panels? Check. Carbon-fiber everything? Check. A charging port hidden in the rear air intake? Oh yes. It’s a bold, aggressive hatchback that doesn’t just pay homage to the past; it redefines what an electric performance car can look like.
Performance That Thrills
With 500 horsepower and exclusive rear-wheel drive, the Turbo 3E means business. Dual electric motors—one powering each rear wheel—rocket this pocket rocket from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.5 seconds. This is pure driving fun, electrified.
A Tribute Worthy of Legends
Like its predecessors, the Turbo 3E is designed to be lightweight and stiff, with a carbon-fiber superstructure forming the backbone of its performance. Renault calls it a “pocket rocket,” and they’re not kidding.
What Makes It Stand Out?
Renault has evolved the design significantly from the concept version. Gone is the fixed rear wing, but Turbo 2-inspired styling cues are everywhere. The blend of retro charm and futuristic aggression makes this car a head-turner.
What about production numbers and pricing? Renault is keeping those details under wraps for now, but expect them to be exclusive and expensive. The Turbo 3E isn’t just a car; it’s a statement piece that cements Renault’s place in the EV revolution.
EVs and Rally Legends: Why Timing Is Everything
Renault’s decision to bring the Turbo 3E to life couldn’t be more perfectly timed. The new Renault 5 already a massive hit with enthusiasts sets the stage for this performance-oriented sibling. And with an Alpine version rumored to be in the works, Renault is clearly pulling out all the stops to reclaim its position as a leader in electrified performance cars.
Don’t Miss the Amazon Documentary
To celebrate the Turbo 3E’s journey from concept to production, Renault teamed up with Amazon for a four-part documentary, Anatomy of a Comeback. It’s a must-watch for anyone who loves cars, innovation, or a good comeback story. Keep an eye out for an Easter egg at the end of the final episode that hints at what’s next for Renault’s electrified future.
Final Thoughts: The Coolest Electric Car Yet?
With its bold design, insane performance, and rich connection to one of Renault’s most iconic cars, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E isn’t just another electric vehicle. It’s proof that EVs can have character, soul, and a whole lot of fun. If this is the future of performance cars, we’re here for it.
Stay tuned for more updates on this electrifying pocket rocket!