The Renault 5 Turbo 3E has made its first public runs at the Historic Tour de Corse rally, marking a bold return to its motorsport roots. As the modern electric reinterpretation of the legendary Renault 5 Turbo and Turbo 2, the 5 Turbo 3E captivated the crowds in Calvi with its exhilarating performance and spectacular drifts.
Reviving a Rally Legend
The debut took place ahead of the 2025 Historic Tour de Corse, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Jean Ragnotti’s 1985 victory in the Maxi 5 Turbo. Two advanced prototypes of the Renault 5 Turbo 3E ran the famous routes of Notre Dame de la Serra and Montegrosso. Behind the wheel was Renault ambassador driver Julien Saunier, who later competed in the rally itself, continuing the Turbo legacy on Corsica’s winding roads.
Design and Engineering
Developed by Alpine, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E combines modern technology with the fearless character of its predecessors. Its aluminum platform is reinforced by carbon components, creating an ideal balance between lightness and rigidity. The exterior retains the muscular stance of the original 1980s hot hatch, now adapted for electric performance and aerodynamic efficiency.
Power and Performance
Powering the Renault 5 Turbo 3E are two in-wheel rear motors producing a combined 555 hp and 4,800 Nm of torque. This setup delivers instant acceleration, allowing the car to sprint from 0–100 km/h in under 3.5 seconds. The car’s weight distribution of 43/57 and advanced suspension geometry provide remarkable agility and drifting precision. With its 800V battery architecture and 70 kWh capacity, charging from 15% to 80% takes just 15 minutes, while range exceeds 400 km.
Tribute to the Tour de Corse
The prototypes featured liveries inspired by historic rally icons. One wore the yellow, white, and black of the Tour de Corse-winning 1982 car, while another echoed the red, blue, and white colors of Ragnotti’s 1985 Maxi 5 Turbo. During the demonstrations, Saunier showcased the car’s drifting control and torque vectoring, thrilling spectators with a display of precision and nostalgia.
Craftsmanship and Customization
Renault plans to produce 1,980 examples of the Turbo 3E, a nod to the year the original Turbo debuted. Customers will be able to personalize their car’s livery and interior with historic colors such as Rouge Grenade or custom “gentleman driver” themes. The all-carbon superstructure weighs under 100 kg, contributing to an overall mass below 1,450 kg and ensuring agile dynamics worthy of its heritage.
Summary
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E’s debut at the Historic Tour de Corse bridges the past and future of rallying. Blending the iconic style of the 1980s with cutting-edge electric power, it redefines the spirit of performance and celebrates Renault’s enduring connection to motorsport excellence.
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Source: Renault
