For the launch of its electric R5, Renault logically capitalized on the history of the Renault 5 and Super cinq of yesteryear and in particular on their sports versions. The diamond thus presented in 2022 the Renault 5 Turbo 3E concept paying homage to the Renault 5 Turbo. If we had hoped that Renault would produce a more lively version of the Alpine A290, whose behavior is not really transformed compared to that of the Renault 5 E-Tech, we would not have dared to hope for a production version. of the R5 Turbo 3E concept. Remember that the brand had already presented a concept inspired by the R5 Turbo in 2013, called Twin'Run, in order to foreshadow the Twingo 3 which ultimately proved to be very mechanically wise, even in the GT version.
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And yet, at the end of the fourth and final episode of the documentary mini-series Anatomy of a comeback launched today on Prime Video, focused on the renewal of Renault, Luca de Meo announces the arrival in series of the R5 Turbo 3E. Another surprise, while Renault does not hesitate to brand hybrid SUVs with the name Alpine, after having already flouted that of Gordini, this R5 Turbo 3E makes no reference to the Dieppe firm, despite the fact that Alpine Renault had participated in the production of the first R5 Turbo. The yellow and black livery chosen for the presentation model also recalls the colors of Renault Sport, which nevertheless gave way to Alpine Cars, which was now believed to be the only brand in the group to have the prerogative of sports models.
A production “in series” which raises some questions
This Renault 5 Turbo 3E has evolved since the concept presented in 2022 and has become slightly calmer by losing its imposing spoiler. The model, however, remains very body-built, particularly at the rear with an imposing diffuser. Furthermore, this production version remains a three-door, unlike the Renault 5 E-Tech which is a five-door. It's a safe bet that the two models have little in common technically (the concept was based on a tubular chassis). Moreover, we doubt that this sporty version will be approved for the road. Times have changed and it is more likely that this electric R5 Turbo is primarily an object of fan service. Unless Renault has another surprise in store for us, like Toyota GR Yaris, we imagine that the R5 Turbo 3E will only be produced in very small series and at high prices, a bit like the late RS01.
However, we will have to wait a little longer to get answers to these questions. In the meantime, Renault is already announcing a total power of more than 500 hp and a 0 to 100 km/h in just almost 3 seconds. This propulsion will receive two electric motors, each driving one of the rear wheels. We can't wait to know (and see) more!
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