Renault has brought another classic model back to life with an electrified version of a rallying legend.
The Renault 8 Gordini concept continues the French marque’s celebration of its heritage – and will take pride of place in a Renault Collections museum that is currently under construction.
It follows a reinterpreted version of the Renault 17 coupe, displayed at the 2024 Paris Motor Show, and the Renault 5 Diamant art car created with Pierre Gonalons.
Described as an ‘exploratory project’, the Renault 8 Gordini concept is, sadly, not destined to become a production vehicle.
However, given the company decided to build the supercar-rivalling Renault 5 Turbo 3E, there is certainly hope for the electric Gordini.
A Renault icon reimagined
The original Renault 8 was launched in 1962. A successor to the Dauphine, it was a compact and affordable four-door saloon.
In 1964, a Gordini version of the rear-engined 8 arrived, delivering 95hp to its rear wheels. It became a success in motorsport worldwide and made the Gordini name famous.
The first examples of the Renault 8 Gordini were only available in blue, complete with white racing stripes and multiple headlights – all elements that have been incorporated into the new concept.
Alexandre Malval, vice president of design at Renault, said: “We updated the distinctive styling of the original Renault 8, which was virtually symmetrical from front to rear, to give it a more dynamic look. With the flowing cabin lines, a wide track, prominent wings and wheels of 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear, it appears to hug the road.
“The decision to make the rear wheels larger creates a visual sense of momentum: a nod to the rear layout that was the hallmark of the hugely enjoyable ride delivered by the original.”
A motorsport-inspired interior
Renault has reinterpreted the signature Bleu de France paint colour of the original Gordini, with a new three-layer shade that combines mother-of-pearl with a blue-tinted binder.
The trademark double stripe has been extended into the car’s cabin, where it changes from white to blue.
Alcantara has been used extensively throughout the interior, with no traces of the carbon fibre used to create the Gordini concept’s bodywork. Brushed aluminium features on the dashboard, with a pair of bucket seats continuing the motorsport theme.
“We limited the number of parts inside the cabin, meticulously crafting each one with understated lines. They are part of both the structure and the trim. Nothing is superfluous”, said Robin Biondi, interior designer for the 8 Gordini.
Electric power for modern Gordini
Compared to the 95hp 1.1-litre engine found in the classic Renault 8, electrification has given this new version a substantial boost in power. A 270hp output makes the reborn Gordini far quicker than the saloon that inspired it.
Currently on display at Renault’s flagship Carwalk showroom on the Champs-Elysees, the new Gordini will mount an even bigger public stage next month. Indeed, it will be one of the stars of the Paris Motor Show, taking place from 12-18 October 2026.
Fingers crossed that a positive public reaction can persuade Renault to make its reborn rally car a production reality.
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