Delta 4×4 previews new R5 Mini Off-Roader

Delta 4×4 can always be relied upon for some funky off-road builds, from Urus to Purosangue to Cullinan, but, well, you can see the problem – they’re all quite expensive SUVs. What’s needed, ideally, is some Delta 4×4 know-how on a more affordable platform. Its latest preview suggests that could well happen. 

Because, yep, it’s a Renault 5 E-Tech. The small car of the moment, thanks to its brilliant design and offshoot models that extend from the sublime (Alpine A290) to the ridiculous (Turbo 3E). Very much not four-wheel drive, either, but then that never stopped the classic rally cars. There’s always the 4 Savane for dedicated off-roaders as well; should this go well then Delta surely has its next project ready and waiting. 

As you might have guessed, this R5 by Delta 4×4 isn’t the real deal just yet. It’s been rendered, and some spec details shared, all of it eminently doable according to them. This isn’t a crazy, pie-in-the-sky overhaul – it really could happen. The significant changes are Loder all-terrain tyres in a 255/55 R18 size, which look fantastic tucked up in seriously extended arches and accommodated by a 100mm lift kit. Nobody’s talking yet about what they might do for rolling resistance and range, but then that’s probably missing the point. 

It wouldn’t be an off-road build without some spotlights, so the Delta 5 gets four PIAA units up front, neatly evoking the old rally car aesthetic. The roof rack looks great, because they so often do when they’re unexpected, and is said to add ‘real utility for outdoor adventures’. You wouldn’t need to carry any jerry cans, at least, but a spare of those giant tyres certainly takes up a lot of room. 

What a Renault 5 E-Tech would be like off the beaten track isn’t clear, though it’s hard not to be intrigued by the idea when it looks as good as this. “Our goal was to combine the charm of the new R5 with a healthy dose of adventure”, said a Delta spokesperson. And this really could exist given sufficient demand.

‘Anyone who wants to see the R5 Mini Off-Roader move from digital concept to real-world machine is invited to register their interest directly with delta Geländesport’, concludes the press release. They reckon on less than €20,000, or £17,000, for the conversion. Call it £25k for a standard 5 at the moment and away you go. Bet it’d look great in yellow…