Renault reborn: milltek unleashes turbocharged nostalgia for the electric era
Renault’s resurrection of the iconic 5, now electrified, has sparked a wave of enthusiasm, but a crucial element – the raw spirit of the Turbo – has been missing. The Alpine A290 offers a more aggressive approach, yet fails to capture the essence of the legendary ‘culogordo’. Thankfully, Milltek is stepping in with a kit that delivers a potent dose of turbo nostalgia for current 5 and A290 owners.
Bridging the gap: milltek’s turbo boost for a classic
The aftermarket specialist has developed a comprehensive body kit designed to inject the aggressive styling and performance of the original Renault 5 Turbo into the modern electric models. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about rekindling the fire of a motorsport icon.
The kit itself is a meticulously crafted collection of components – wider front and rear wheel arches, aggressive front bumper extensions, a bespoke wheel arch cover, bespoke side mouldings, a prominent rear spoiler, and upgraded side scoops. Further enhancing the visual impact are improved daytime running lights (DRLs) specifically tailored for the Alpine A290, alongside a set of aluminum badging. It’s a serious upgrade, and one that immediately transforms the look of both vehicles.
Milltek’s key innovation lies in its compatibility. The system is engineered to be fully reversible and easily installed, utilizing the same mounting points and fixings as the original vehicles. Non-adjustable components are secured with durable, removable adhesives, ensuring a seamless integration without requiring permanent modifications. This ‘bolt-on’ approach is a significant advantage for owners seeking a dramatic visual transformation.
“As enthusiasts of Group B,” explains Kev Hall, Director of Technical Operations at Milltek, “we started planning this immediately after seeing the first Renault 5. After months of intense development and a tight deadline for production, our design team has created something truly special.” The focus, it seems, was on capturing the visceral thrill of the Turbo – a muscle car feel in an electric package.
The price point is undeniably appealing: at £2,000 (approximately $2,347), plus VAT, this kit represents remarkable value considering the comprehensive scope of the transformation. This is a fraction of the cost of the ultra-exclusive Renault 5 Turbo 3E, which is priced at a staggering £155,000 ($178,000) for just 1,980 units. That firmly places it beyond the reach of most buyers.
While the Renault 4 and Mini E are both intriguing electric alternatives, Milltek’s offering provides a tangible link to the legendary Turbo spirit. Production is slated to begin in Autumn, with limited availability – a factor that will undoubtedly drive demand. The Renault 5 currently starts at £25,085 in the UK, climbing to £28,909 for the 150hp model, while the Alpine A290 begins at £39,000. Be warned, though - securing one will require speed.