PREVIEW

Renault has confirmed a striking new ‘super hot hatch’ that will have more than 500 bhp.

The Renault 5 Turbo 3E concept car will enter production in 2026, marking the revival of its legendary Turbo model with a bold, all-electric reinterpretation. Designed as the ultimate hot hatch, this modern iteration combines retro styling with cutting-edge technology to deliver exceptional performance and driving thrills.
The production model, based on a bespoke architecture, will feature next-generation in-wheel motor technology, producing more than triple the power of the original Renault 5 Turbo, which ceased production in 1984. The advanced drivetrain, developed in collaboration with British firm Protean Electric, allows each wheel to operate independently, enhancing agility and control.
Bruno Vanel, Renault's product boss, described the 5 Turbo 3E as offering “breathtaking performance” and an “outstanding driving sensation” that is “agile like nothing else”. Acceleration from 0-62mph will take less than 3.5 seconds, making it the most powerful production car in Renault’s history.
A lightweight carbon-composite body ensures rigidity and reduced weight, while the styling pays homage to the iconic rally cars of the 1980s. Details like a rear-mounted charging socket cleverly echo the original Turbo’s air intakes.
The car’s performance-oriented ethos will extend to features such as a manual handbrake and drift modes, reflecting its motorsport-inspired DNA. A rear-wheel-drive layout, with two electric motors integrated into the rear wheels, promises instantaneous power delivery and exhilarating driving dynamics.
Renault has embraced an unconventional approach to the car’s reveal. It featured prominently in the company’s documentary series, where CEO Luca de Meo confirmed its production plans. The series showcases the company’s "Renaulution" transformation, blending glimpses of its innovative design processes with human stories from within the organisation.
Expected to make its public debut with a series of exclusive activations in 2025, the 5 Turbo 3E will cement its place as a unique and exuberant addition to Renault’s lineup. Combining modern electric technology with a nostalgic nod to its sporting heritage, the 5 Turbo 3E is poised to redefine the hot hatch segment and captivate a new generation of enthusiasts.