The Renault 5 Turbo 3E isn’t just another electric vehicle; it’s a statement. Unveiled in late 2024, this high-performance EV shares the iconic shape of the classic Renault 5 but delivers a radically different experience. The Turbo 3E is a showcase of Renault’s ambition, featuring an 800-volt platform, innovative in-wheel motors, and blistering performance, even if its real-world practicality is limited. If future Renault EVs inherit even a fraction of this model’s spirit, electric driving is in for a serious upgrade.
A Legacy Reborn
Renault has a history of building aggressive, rear-wheel-drive hot hatchbacks – from the original 1980s R5 Turbo to the Clio V6. The Turbo 3E continues this tradition, swapping gasoline for electric power. This isn’t just an EV; it’s a tribute to Renault’s performance heritage. Production is capped at 1,980 units, with prices starting around £135,000, allowing for extensive customization.
Raw Performance, Unfiltered Experience
A recent test drive at Goodwood Motor Circuit revealed the Turbo 3E’s brutal acceleration and unique handling characteristics. The vehicle is noticeably lower and wider than a standard R5, immediately drawing attention. The interior is stripped down, almost race-car like, with exposed roll cages, minimal sound deadening, and a basic, unfinished feel.
The car’s 533bhp output and in-wheel motors deliver instantaneous torque (up to 4,800Nm), launching it from 0-62mph in under 3.5 seconds. While it doesn’t quite hit its advertised 168mph top speed on shorter tracks, the raw power is undeniable. The suspension and chassis exhibit significant body roll, but the grip remains remarkably stable, even when using the hydraulic handbrake for aggressive cornering.
The Future of Alpine?
Renault used the Alpine A110R as a benchmark for performance and handling. The Turbo 3E’s platform will eventually underpin the electric replacement for the A110, suggesting that Renault is serious about electrifying its performance lineup. This model serves as a testbed for future technologies, including ultra-rapid 350kW charging and a claimed range of almost 250 miles.
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E is not a sensible car, but it’s an exhilarating one. It proves that electric vehicles can be just as wild and engaging as their gasoline-powered predecessors, and it sets a high bar for future performance EVs.
