Renault has returned to its rallying roots with the public debut of the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, a modern, electric reinvention of the legendary 1980s Renault 5 Turbo and Turbo 2. Ahead of the Historic Tour de Corse, which this year celebrates the 40th anniversary of Jean Ragnotti’s iconic 1985 victory, two advanced prototypes of the 555 hp “mini-supercar” thrilled spectators with high-speed runs and spectacular drifts through the winding streets of Corsica.
The demonstrations, held on Sunday 5 and Monday 6 October in Calvi, showcased the agility, acceleration, and rallying prowess of the Renault 5 Turbo 3E along the famous Notre Dame de la Serra and Montegrosso special stages. Driving the electric prototypes was Renault ambassador and rally specialist Julien Saunier, who is also competing in the Historic Tour de Corse at the wheel of a Maxi 5 Turbo in the legendary colours of Jean Ragnotti.
“Driving this Renault 5 Turbo 3E is such an incredible experience! It really does have everything you’d expect from a super sports car – it’s a true rallying beast. The acceleration is relentless, braking is ultra-powerful yet easy to modulate, and the car can perform spectacular but controlled drifts. Experiencing this in the colours of the 1985 ‘Philips’ Maxi 5 Turbo was a real tribute to the anniversary,” Saunier said.
A “Mini-Supercar” for the Electric Era
Developed by Alpine, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E represents the first model in the electric “mini-supercar” class, combining compact dimensions with supercar-level performance. Measuring just 4.08 metres long and 2.03 metres wide, the car retains the innovative DNA and sporting spirit of its predecessors.
Alpine engineers, led by Philippe Varet, have embraced advanced technologies and lightweight construction to achieve exceptional performance. The aluminium/carbon platform supports a carbon superstructure of less than 100 kg, while the rear in-wheel motors deliver 2 x 204 kW for a combined output of 555 hp and 4,800 Nm of torque, enabling a 0–100 kph sprint in under 3.5 seconds. Independent control of the rear wheels optimises torque distribution for razor-sharp agility, while double wishbone suspension front and rear ensures precise handling under extreme conditions.
“Engineers rarely get the opportunity to develop an innovative, high-performance car such as this. The first runs confirmed the technical decisions made for this car: mighty in-wheel motors, outstanding agility, breathtaking acceleration with a power-to-weight ratio of 2.5 and an ideal weight distribution of 43/57. A machine built for thrills!” Varet said.
Racing Heritage Meets Modern Technology
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E’s Corsican debut was more than a technical showcase—it was a celebration of heritage. Two distinct liveries paid homage to the car’s illustrious past: one in black, yellow, and white, and another in the red, blue, and white of Ragnotti’s 1985 Tour de Corse-winning Maxi 5 Turbo.
As soon as the public demonstration concluded, Saunier returned to his classic Maxi 5 Turbo to tackle the same special stages in the ongoing Historic Tour de Corse, an event he won in 2024 and remains a favourite for the 2025 edition.
Available for Reservation
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E is now available for reservation, priced from £140,000 (provisional RRP, excluding options and personalisation), with 1,980 examples to be built—a nod to the year the original Renault 5 Turbo launched. Reservations, which opened on 22 April, require a £42,500 deposit, giving customers priority in selecting their vehicle number and configuration.
Featuring an 800V architecture, 70 kWh battery, and DC fast charging of up to 330 kW, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E can charge from 15% to 80% in just 15 minutes, while delivering a WLTP range exceeding 400 km. Customers will also soon have the opportunity to personalise their cars, choosing historic liveries, bespoke interiors, and other features through a dedicated programme launching in early 2026.
Michael Grosjean, Project Manager for Renault 5 Turbo 3E, reflected on the public debut: “These first runs are highly symbolic, not just technically but culturally, linking the car to the 40th anniversary of Jean Ragnotti’s victory. The excitement internally and externally has been phenomenal, with 500 reservations in the first three days alone. We now look forward to unveiling the personalisation programme, which promises to be as detailed and attractive as the car itself.”
The first vehicles are expected to be delivered to customers in 2027, marking a new chapter for a legendary name in motorsport and compact performance cars.
