The Renault 5 Turbo 3E seems to be getting even more aggressive—and honestly, we’re here for it. Since its dramatic debut in a cloud of tire smoke and electric whine, its power has surged from 500bhp to an impressive 536bhp.
But that’s not all. This beast now delivers an astonishing 3,540lb ft (4,800Nm) of torque, which means two things: a) it rockets from 0-62mph at a blistering pace, and b) it’s absolutely terrifying.
So, welcome once again to the next evolution of Renault’s hot hatch legacy. Keep your arms and legs firmly inside the ride because you’re in for a wild one. This modern reincarnation of Renault’s iconic Eighties legend comes equipped with twin in-wheel motors tucked inside the rear wheels, transforming it into a 536bhp, earth-shaking monster.
Or as Renault puts it, a true “beast” designed for rallying, drifting, and track performance while still being street-legal. It rides on a custom-built aluminum platform—engineered by Alpine—tailor-made for rear-wheel drive and wrapped in lightweight carbon fiber panels.
The design tweaks are just as significant. Compared to the standard Renault 5 EV, this version has a windscreen positioned further back, an extended wheelbase, and an overall stance that’s wider and more aggressive. Renault proudly refers to it as a ‘mini-supercar.’
This ‘mini-supercar’ runs on an advanced 800V system, powered by a 70kWh battery cleverly integrated into the floor. It can charge from 15 to 80 percent in just 15 minutes using a 350kW fast charger. Meanwhile, its two in-wheel motors each produce 268bhp, delivering a total output of 536bhp.
Renault claims these motors provide “immediate power” compared to conventional e-motors, offering an experience reminiscent of old-school turbocharged engines—but without the lag. That instant response is thrilling, especially given that this new R5 Turbo is significantly lighter than its predecessor.
Tipping the scales at just 1,450kg, it boasts a 0-62mph time of under 3.5 seconds. It’s also built to handle multiple high-speed laps at up to 168mph without breaking a sweat.
For those track-day enthusiasts looking for extra excitement—possibly pushing the limits of ‘uncomfortably fast’—the car offers several driving modes: ‘Snow,’ ‘Regular,’ ‘Sport,’ and ‘Race.’ The ‘Race’ mode includes a ‘drift-assist’ function, practically guaranteeing a grin as wide as those flared wheel arches.
Step inside, and you’ll find an interior that’s as stripped-down and race-focused as they come. This is our first proper look at the cabin, and it barely resembles a traditional road car. There are two digital displays in front of the driver—one 10.1 inches and the other 10.25 inches—providing all essential data. You’ll be strapped into a pair of bucket seats with six-point harnesses, surrounded by carbon fiber, Alcantara, and—of course—a proper “rally-style” vertical handbrake. Beyond that? Nothing unnecessary.
Customization options will allow buyers to personalize their R5 Turbo, including the original launch colors from the Eighties models and various interior trim choices. As expected, this kind of performance and exclusivity won’t come cheap. Although Renault hasn’t confirmed pricing, expect a starting point north of £120k—with the final cost potentially doubling once you start ticking option boxes.
Production will be limited to 1,980 units (see what they did there?), with each car individually numbered. Expect to see these taking on supercars at local meets from 2027 onward. Just don’t make it angry—though, if you do, you might find yourself enjoying it.
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