Alpine has officially revealed its new A290, a high-performance electric hatchback that aims to deliver driving thrills while staying true to the brand’s sporting heritage. Based on the Renault 5 E-Tech, this electric hot hatch brings a sharp focus on fun, marking Alpine’s entry into the electric vehicle (EV) market with a car that enthusiasts will appreciate.
The Alpine A290 takes its styling cues from the A290_β concept and is built on the Renault 5 platform, but it stands out with a much sportier appearance. At the front, the car features distinctive cross-shaped spotlights, inspired by Alpine’s rally cars, which immediately give it a more aggressive and performance-oriented look compared to the standard Renault 5. Large air intakes and gloss black details further add to its dynamic stance.
From the side, the A290 has a muscular profile, enhanced by gloss black wheel arches and creases that mimic vents, echoing the concept version’s design. The car sits on 19-inch alloy wheels that have been carried over almost unchanged from the concept. At the rear, the ducktail spoiler and aggressive lower bumper continue the rally-inspired theme, giving the car a purposeful, wide stance.
Inside, the A290 combines practicality with sporty flair. While it shares a lot with the Renault 5, Alpine has introduced several bespoke features to set it apart. The most noticeable change is the new chunky steering wheel, which includes a bright red “overtake” button, allowing the driver to boost power momentarily for a surge of acceleration. The body-hugging sports seats, embossed with the Alpine logo, provide both comfort and support during spirited driving, while flashes of blue trim throughout the cabin add to the sporty feel.
The 10.1-inch touchscreen is similar to the one found in the Renault 5, but with custom graphics and menus exclusive to Alpine. For added convenience, it includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while physical buttons for the air conditioning offer a welcome touch of practicality. Despite its performance focus, the A290 remains a functional daily driver, offering 329 litres of boot space, comparable to larger vehicles like the MG4.
Alpine offers two motor options for the A290. The entry-level model comes with a 180hp motor, capable of 0-60mph in 7.4 seconds. But for those seeking a true hot hatch experience, the 220hp variant, which shaves the 0-60mph time down to just 6.4 seconds, is the one to go for. This puts it ahead of the Hyundai i20 N and even the Volkswagen Polo GTI in terms of straight-line speed.
Though it doesn’t feature the dual-motor setup seen in the concept, Alpine has still made sure the A290 delivers in the corners. With multi-link rear suspension and a clever torque management system, the A290 is engineered for agile handling. Paired with Michelin Pilot Sport tyres on the 220hp model, drivers can expect excellent grip and a rewarding driving experience.
With a 52kWh battery, the A290 is predicted to offer up to 236 miles of range on a full charge. While this is slightly less than the Renault 5’s 249 miles, the performance gains make up for it. Charging is competitive, with the A290 supporting up to 100kW rapid charging, allowing for a 10-80% charge in just 30 minutes. A full charge using a 7kW home charger will take under nine hours.
Despite its performance credentials, the A290 is still a practical option for everyday use. With 329 litres of boot space, it’s on par with larger EVs like the MG4, making it suitable for small families or those needing extra space for luggage.
Alpine has yet to confirm pricing, but with the Renault 5 expected to start below £25,000, it’s likely the A290 will be priced north of £30,000. The car is set to hit UK roads in 2024, and with its blend of performance, practicality, and Alpine’s motorsport-inspired design, it looks set to be a strong contender in the growing electric hot hatch segment.
In summary, the Alpine A290 offers a mix of performance and practicality, with sporty design touches that pay homage to Alpine’s rally roots. It’s an exciting addition to the EV market, and for those who love hot hatches, this could be a standout option next year.
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