Renault Australia is set to introduce the highly anticipated Renault 5 Turbo 3E, the sportiest iteration of its newly revived electric hatchback, to local showrooms. However, details regarding the more budget-friendly and stripped-down version of the model remain uncertain.
Unveiled just last week, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E—also referred to as the R5 Turbo—will be available in right-hand drive markets, including Australia. The local distributor, Ateco, is currently inviting expressions of interest ahead of an official launch date, which is yet to be determined.
“We have been tirelessly collaborating with our headquarters in France to secure the Renault 5 Turbo 3E for the Australian market, and just hours before the holiday shutdown, we received the confirmation,” said Glen Sealey, General Manager of Renault Australia, in a press statement.
“Upon receiving the green light, we wasted no time in commencing preparations. Customers in Australia can now express their interest online, ensuring they are the first to receive updates and notifications when the ordering process begins.”
Sealey emphasized Renault’s commitment to Australia: “Our head office in France has shown exceptional support for our market. The swift agreement to allocate the Renault 5 Turbo 3E is a testament to Renault’s dedication to Australian consumers, as we also anticipate the arrival of more exciting models in the near future.”
Despite the confirmed launch of the Turbo 3E in Australia, the standard Renault 5 model is yet to be finalized for local distribution. “Securing the Renault 5 Turbo 3E is just the beginning; we will keep you updated on additional forthcoming products from Renault.”
The Turbo 3E serves as a contemporary interpretation of the iconic mid-engine Renault 5 Turbo, originally designed for rally competition in the 1980s. Unlike its predecessor, this all-electric variant is rear-wheel-drive and utilizes dual electric motors integrated into the rear wheels.
Boasting an impressive output of 373 kW, Renault claims the Turbo 3E can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds. This performance exceeds that of the Renault 5-based Alpine A290, which generates 160 kW from a single-motor setup, while a more powerful all-wheel-drive variant has been indicated as forthcoming.
The Turbo 3E maintains a bold, aggressive design, echoing the muscular stance of the original Renault 5 Turbo. It features prominent boxy wheel arches housing 20-inch alloy wheels. While the earlier model included functional side air intakes for engine cooling, the new electric hatch adopts a similar aesthetic without the necessity for additional cooling systems.
The exterior is adorned with striking graphics reminiscent of 1980s hot hatches, and its distinctive yellow paint reflects the iconic colors of the rallying Renault 5 Turbos from that era. The headlights are notably smaller than those on the standard Renault 5, closely resembling the original Turbo’s design, while the vehicle sports squared-off daytime running lights and aggressive front and rear bumpers.
Details regarding the interior design have not yet been disclosed, and more information on Australian timing, pricing, and specifications will be provided as the local launch approaches.
For further insights on the Renault 5 E-Tech, and to explore whether the Renault Turbo 3E is set to be the most exhilarating production electric vehicle, stay tuned.
Source:www.carexpert.com.au
