Is Renault Bringing Back Its Iconic Sporty Cars? Here’s What We Know
What’s Sparking the Buzz About New Renault Performance Models?
If you’re a fan of hot hatches and performance cars, you’ve probably noticed Renault’s recent moves have set the rumor mill spinning. The French automaker, known for legends like the Mégane RS and Clio RS, has been relatively quiet on the sporty front since the last Mégane RS Ultime rolled off the line in 2023. But things are heating up again, and not just because of nostalgia.
Renault’s CEO, Fabrice Cambolive, recently confirmed that the company is actively exploring new performance models. In fact, he promised that we’ll see “first proposals” within the next year. This isn’t just idle talk—Renault has already made waves with the limited-run 5 Turbo 3E, a 533bhp electric hyper hatch that sold out almost instantly, despite its eye-watering £140,000 price tag. That car wasn’t just a collector’s item; it was a bold statement about what Renault thinks the future of performance EVs could look like.
Why Did Renault Step Back From Affordable Hot Hatches?
Let’s be honest: the golden age of affordable hot hatches feels like it’s slipping away. The last true Renaultsport-badged car, the Mégane RS, bowed out with the 296bhp Ultime edition. Since then, fans have wondered if Renault would ever return to its roots with something more accessible.
The answer, for now, is complicated. Emmanuel de Jesus Pequeno, who manages the Clio product line, recently explained why a new hot Clio isn’t on the table. The challenge? Balancing the hefty investment needed to turn a regular supermini into a true hot hatch against the likely demand. In other words, making a car that’s both exciting and affordable is harder than ever—especially with stricter emissions rules and the cost of developing new engines.
What Would It Take for Renault to Build a New Hot Hatch?
Here’s where things get tricky. To bring back an affordable, high-performance Renault, the company would likely need to redevelop either the old Mk4 Clio RS’s 1.6-liter turbo engine or the Alpine A110’s 1.8-liter unit. Both would need to be re-engineered to meet the latest emissions standards—a process that’s not just expensive, but also time-consuming.
This isn’t just a Renault problem. Across the industry, automakers are wrestling with how to keep performance cars alive in an era of electrification and tightening regulations. The cost of compliance is high, and the market for traditional hot hatches isn’t what it used to be. According to a 2023 report from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, the average cost of meeting new EU emissions rules has increased by over 20 percent in just five years. That’s a big hurdle for cars that have always been about delivering thrills on a budget.
Could the Renaultsport Name Make a Comeback?
For many enthusiasts, the Renaultsport badge is more than just a logo—it’s a promise of driving excitement. So, will we see it return? Cambolive hinted that it’s possible, but there’s a twist. Renault’s performance ambitions are increasingly tied to Alpine, the company’s dedicated sports car brand. Alpine has been making headlines with its own electric sports car plans, and Renault may decide to channel its performance efforts exclusively through Alpine moving forward.
Still, there’s a sense that the door isn’t completely closed. Former CEO Luca de Meo described Renaultsport as being “in the fridge”—not dead, just waiting for the right moment. He pointed out that authenticity matters: the original 5 Turbo was a Renault, not an Alpine, and any revival would need to respect that heritage.
What Does This Mean for Everyday Enthusiasts?
If you’re hoping for a return to the days of affordable, high-revving Renault hot hatches, the road ahead is uncertain. The company is clearly interested in performance, but the focus may shift toward high-end, limited-run EVs or Alpine-badged sports cars. That said, Renault’s willingness to “explore” new ideas and show proposals within the next year is a positive sign. It suggests the brand is listening to its fans and looking for creative ways to keep its sporting spirit alive.
Looking Ahead: Will Renault’s Next Move Satisfy the Fans?
Renault’s legacy in the world of performance cars is undeniable. From the rally-bred 5 Turbo to the razor-sharp Mégane RS, the brand has always punched above its weight. While the challenges of electrification and emissions are real, Renault’s recent statements—and the buzz around the 5 Turbo 3E—show that the passion for performance is still alive and well in Paris.
So, should you hold out hope for a new era of Renaultsport? Absolutely. The details are still under wraps, but with proposals set to be revealed soon, there’s every reason to keep an eye on what Renault does next. Whether it’s under the Renaultsport name or the Alpine badge, one thing’s for sure: the story isn’t over yet.