New Renault Sports Models
Renault plans to introduce new sports offerings over the next year. These models are expected to be significantly more affordable than the R5 Turbo 3E electric car, which costs 155 thousand euros. Despite the aggressive design of the new Clio, a hot hatchback based on it is not expected.
Company’s Plans
Renault is exploring various options for future high-performance products. The first offerings will likely be presented in the form of concepts, as the manufacturer is still evaluating the possibilities and feasibility of series production.
Brand CEO Fabrice Cambolive stated: “Yes, we are exploring other options. We will present some proposals to you within the next 12 months.”
He also added that the company must find the “right balance” between cost and demand before projects get the green light. This means development is in its early stages.
Positioning and Prospects
Following the discontinuation of the Renault Sport sub-brand in favor of the more premium Alpine, it remains unclear which brand will be used for future sports models. In any case, they are expected to be significantly more affordable than the limited-series R5 Turbo 3E, which will appear in 2027.
Possible Options
The most likely scenario for a future performance model is a hot version of the Megane E-Tech. This electric crossover is due for an update next year, including a sporty look and battery improvements.
As for the new Clio, according to product line manager Emmanuel de Jesus Pequeno, a performance version is not planned. In the B-segment, the fully electric Alpine A290 based on the R5 E-Tech already exists.
Competitive Analysis
Another option for Renault could be a sports crossover. The current model range includes the Captur, Arkana, Symbioz, Austral, Espace, and Rafale, as well as the electric R4 E-Tech and Scenic E-Tech. The most powerful is the Rafale E-Tech 4×4 300 hp version with a hybrid setup.
Due to the incompatibility of the turbocharged 1.8-liter engine with European emission standards, it is difficult to imagine non-hybrid performance models from Renault. Hopefully, future electrified cars will be just as exciting to drive as their RS-branded predecessors.
The electric vehicle market continues to evolve, and Renault seems to be betting on a combination of performance and affordability. Their future initiatives could significantly impact the compact sports car segment, especially given the growing competition from other European manufacturers. It is important that the new models retain the driving spirit that has always distinguished Renault sports cars.