FYI: Renault is set to revolutionize the mini-supercar market with its new Renault 5 Turbo 3E, boasting in-wheel motors and impressive specs.
Reviving the Glory of the Renault 5 Turbo: Welcome the Turbo 3E
Renault is taking the automotive world by storm with the electrifying Renault 5 Turbo 3E, a nod to the legendary mid-engine rally cars of the past. This contemporary marvel perfectly marries nostalgia with innovation, presenting itself as a compact yet formidable machine. Set for a future on the roads, Renault envisions this as a "mini supercar," and it’s more than a concept—production is on the horizon with intentions to build 1,980 units, marking a tribute to the legendary original 5 Turbo from 1980.
Advanced Design and Agile Performance
Adorning distinctive styling, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E encapsulates quintessential 80’s flair with modern twists. Its sleek yet aggressive build features wide fender flares inspired by its rally ancestors, and its retro headlights enhance the nostalgic appeal. Underpinning its dynamic appearance is a bespoke aluminum platform designed exclusively for this model. Weighing just 3,127 pounds, the Turbo 3E outperforms even the lauded Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Rs in weight efficiency, promising unmatched agility and thrill.
Power Packed with In-Wheel Motors
The technological heart of the Turbo 3E lies in its dual in-wheel motors, strategically placed on its rear-wheel drivetrain. This configuration ensures quick response and power delivery, perfectly blending control with exhilaration. With a combined output of 536 horsepower, the Turbo 3E rockets from 0 to 62 mph in a brisk 3.5 seconds, leaving behind notable sports cars like the Carrera 992. Driving enthusiasts will also appreciate the steering wheel’s overtaking button, a feature designed to boost power on demand.
Racing-Ready Features and Efficient Charging
Range and practicality seamlessly integrate within the Turbo 3E. With approximately 250 miles on a single charge, it also supports rapid charging; its 800-volt architecture allows a remarkable 15–80% charge in just 15 minutes via a DC fast charger. Whether it’s a leisurely drive or engaging multiple laps on a track, this supercar stands ready for both.
Built for Drift Enthusiasts
Continuing the legacy of excitement from the original 5 Turbo, the 3E version embraces its drift-centric nature with flair. Supplying control and finesse, the car is engineered for tailored maneuvers, and its dual motor setup significantly enhances agility. Additionally, a rally-inspired vertical handbrake is set to intensify the drifting experience.
Comfortable, Contemporary Interior
Inside, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E showcases a modern interior fused with nostalgic elements. With its Alcantara seats sporting a chic plaid pattern and a retro-styled infotainment system, comfort meets style head-on. The innovative in-wheel motor configuration frees up valuable space, transforming the cargo area into an unusually generous storage compartment for a car of its size.
Up Next: Production and Personalization
For enthusiastic automotive aficionados, the wait is almost over. Renault is priming to launch order books soon across strategic markets including Europe and Japan. While pricing details remain under wraps, the ability to tailor a Turbo 3E with a personalized flair ensures the ownership experience is as unique as the car itself.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
