The new Renault R5 Turbo 3E packs supercar-level performance—But there’s a problem…
540 horsepower, a drift mode, an ultra-lightweight platform, and a design that turns heads. But one big question remains: why is this beast rolling under the Renault badge instead of Alpine? Renault had seemingly left high-performance models to its subsidiary, yet this return of a souped-up R5 under the Renault name is raising eyebrows. Let’s take a closer look at what’s really behind this electric monster.
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A reinvented R5 Turbo for the future
Renault set out to revive the spirit of the ‘80s by reimagining one of its icons—the R5 Turbo. But instead of just modernizing the old model, the brand went all in. This 3E is built on an aluminum platform and features a 100% electric powertrain developed in collaboration with Alpine. The numbers are staggering: 540 hp, 4,800 Nm of torque, and a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of under 3.5 seconds. Not bad for what’s supposed to be a city car on steroids. The design is just as radical. Wider than its road-going counterpart, it boasts flared fenders, a massive rear diffuser, and a look inspired by rally legends. Renault didn’t settle for a simple facelift—it built a true track machine, complete with a finely tuned chassis and an integrated drift mode for those who love to slide.
But there’s a problem… Renault or Alpine?
Here’s where things get confusing. Over the past few years, Renault has clearly separated its lineup: Alpine was supposed to handle performance models, while Renault focused on mainstream cars. That’s why the sporty version of the regular R5 is called the Alpine A290 and not the “Renault 5 Alpine.” Makes sense, right? But the R5 Turbo 3E completely disrupts this strategy. Why is such a hardcore, motorsport-inspired model carrying the Renault badge? You’d expect a car like this to wear the Alpine emblem, especially considering the brand’s commitment to endurance racing (WEC) and Formula 1. Yet Renault chose to keep it in-house. Strategic decision or brand identity crisis? On the other hand, could you really pay tribute to the legendary Renault 5 Turbo with an “Alpine Turbo 3”? That would be just as odd.
Supercar-worthy performance
Regardless of the branding confusion, the R5 Turbo 3E is an absolute powerhouse. Thanks to a 70 kWh battery and an 800-volt architecture, it can handle fast charging at 350 kW, regaining 80% charge in just 15 minutes. It also boasts an impressive 250+ mi range, which is remarkable for a car of this size. On the track, it promises to be a weapon. With a lightweight under 3,200 lbs chassis (including the battery) and a boost mode, it delivers performance on par with some gas-powered supercars. Add to that an adjustable regenerative braking system and multiple driving modes—including one for snow and another for track use—and you have an incredibly versatile machine. It’s not just fast; it’s designed to be thrilling to drive.
A collector’s model… But for who?
Limited to 1,980 units, the R5 Turbo 3E is set to become a future collector’s item. Renault is playing the nostalgia card to the max, offering liveries inspired by the past and a design that pays homage to the brand’s rallying glory days. But one question remains: who is this car really for? On one side, motorsport enthusiasts and fans of the original R5 Turbo will love it. But its positioning—somewhere between mainstream and exclusive—creates some confusion. If someone wants a sporty electric Renault, shouldn’t they be looking at Alpine instead? This model blurs the lines.
This article dives into the unexpected return of the R5 Turbo under Renault’s badge, questioning its role in a lineup where Alpine was supposed to handle performance. With insane performance numbers and a mini-supercar design, it’s as impressive as it is intriguing. The real question is: will this branding move win over enthusiasts, or will it dilute Renault’s sporty image?
Images: © Renault
