In 2025, the brand created by Jean Rédélé will celebrate its 70th anniversary. Could Jean Rédélé have imagined that an Alpine 100% electric car would one day be marketed as a sports car? Regardless, the Alpine A290 is the first electric car developed by the Dieppe brand, and many more will follow. So, how does the Alpine A290 measure up, anticipated as an “electric GTI,” the optimized “sporty” version of the Renault 5 E-Tech electric? Here is our review of the A290, in the 160 kW/220 hp and “GTS” finish version.
A few days ago, we offered you our review of the Renault 5 E-Tech electric, a more than convincing electric car for urban use and beyond. Revealed in June 2023, on the sidelines of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Alpine A290 is the first model of the Alpine Cars “Dream Garage”, a future range of 100% electric models that will include the A390 coupe SUV and the future A110 100% electric. Alpine Cars is set to become a 100% electric brand. Let’s start our review of the Alpine A290 by presenting its design, knowing that the designers and engineers at Alpine Cars had a common goal: to create an electric car worthy of its sporty status while respecting the historic DNA attributed to Jean Rédélé.
At 3.99 meters in length and 1.820 meters in width (excluding mirrors), the Alpine A290 is slightly longer than the Renault 5 E-Tech electric (L: 3.92 m – W: 1.50 m) and, above all, wider. Indeed, the tracks of the A290 are widened by 60 mm. As for the A290’s body, it features numerous elements designed to optimize airflow and visual codes specific to Alpine Cars, borrowed from the old and latest A110 Berlinettes. Throughout the design of the A290, the A110 was on the minds of the Alpine Cars teams.
At the front, the new electric car Alpine A290 reveals a light signature that harkens back to the headlights of the old A110rally cars, with cross-shaped lights inspired by the headlight protection tape. Tape that the concept car Alpine A110 Sports X had also shown in 2020. The front bumper of the Alpine A290 is logically very open and sharp. At the ends of this same bumper, we see openings almost identical to those of the Alpine A110.
From the front view, the massive, not to say “bodybuilt” aspect of the A290 already stands out. Higher up, the smooth hood is decorated in the style of an air intake, but unlike the Renault 5 E-Tech electric, it is just decorative and does not inform about the battery charge level, which is a pity.
From the side, let’s not talk about tuning, but let’s admit that the pointed treatment of the rear fenders could have been avoided for a more homogeneous style. However, from this angle, one cannot help but be captivated by the “muscular” appearance of this desirable A290 with striking curves. Our Alpine A290 GTS test version in “Blanc Nival” is equipped, like all A290 versions, with 19-inch wheels, which in our test model are the diamond-finished “Snowflake” type. Additionally, the brake calipers are painted red.
At the rear, the A290 is equally successful, equipped with a diffuser and a small spoiler integrated into its tailgate. To conclude on the design of the A290, it prominently features the tricolor flag, visible at the top of the quarter window and at the front in the headlights. Let’s admit that we fell under the charm of this exterior configuration, which visually stands out in a more homogeneous manner. However, the 19-inch wheels raise the A290 too much. As a result, its silhouette is far from being close to the ground, unlike the Renault 5 E-Tech electric, which seems to be much more grounded.
Moving inside the A290, it is another success, with a decidedly plush and sporty atmosphere, with attention to detail at every level. This interior was designed like that of the A110. The massive center console, with its three “D,” “N,” and “R” buttons, is the best example, as well as the seats, which are similar to those of the A110. The assembly and material quality are of a very high standard, while the screen placements are identical to those of the 100% electric R5.
However, their animations and management are completely different, with digital instrumentation featuring triangles reminiscent of the Alpine mountains. Believe us, it’s impressive and fun! The large touchscreen (10.1″), managed by the “Alpine Telemetrics” computer intelligence, can almost be considered a “video game console.” Indeed, a virtual coach helps with driving or piloting, with no fewer than 40 challenges to complete to progress. Other challenges, numbering 15 to start, to be carried out on closed roads or circuits, are also part of the A290 program. That’s not all, because what stands out is the steering wheel and its various buttons straight from Formula 1 and, again, the gaming world. To the left of the steering wheel, a blue rotary control “RCH” allows you to adjust the level of energy recovery during braking. To the right, there is the drive mode selector (“Save,” “Normal,” “Sport,” “Perso”) and, above, an incredible red button labeled “OV” (Overtake). Once engaged, this button provides a short burst of electric power for 10 seconds.
We almost forget that the A290 is a sporty city car with a size close to that of a compact car that can accommodate five occupants, with a cargo volume of 326 liters in “GT” and “GT Performance” (300 liters in “GT Premium” and “GTS”). In practice, two adults will be comfortable sitting in the rear seats.
Before diving into our road test of the Alpine A290, let’s present the technical specifics of Alpine Cars’ first electric vehicle, and there are many. The A290 can be ordered in two power levels for the electric motor borrowed from the Mégane E-Tech electric: 130 kW/180 hp (combined WLTP range: 236 miles) – 160 kW/220 hp (combined WLTP range: 226 miles). In both cases, a high-capacity 52 kWh battery powers the A290’s traction (11 kW charger). Notably, the electric motor of the A290 rests on a specific aluminum cradle. The multi-link rear suspension from the Renault 5 E-Tech electric is logically adopted for the A290, but it is accompanied by a specific anti-roll bar, as is the case for the front. Hydraulic bump stops, similar to those on the A110, are present for the A290’s firmer-tuned shock absorbers. The braking system, with 4-piston calipers (320 mm at the front – 288 mm at the rear), is supplied by Brembo. All these technical specifics make you want to get behind the wheel of the A290, don’t they?
Regarding the A290’s tires, three options are offered, starting with the simple Michelin Pilot Sport EV (summer). For more performance, Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tires can also be fitted to the A290’s wheels. Snow tires, Michelin Pilot Alpin 5, complete the range developed specifically for the Alpine A290. Our test model of the Alpine A290 is equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport S 5.
Now, here’s what we felt on the beautiful winding roads of Palma de Mallorca while driving the Alpine A290. Alpine Cars did things right and went big, also offering us the chance to drive on a track. Once seated behind the wheel of this electric car, a first feeling of sportiness overwhelmed us, as the interior of the A290 is a success. The Alpine identity is omnipresent, and above all, we are perfectly positioned with genuine controls worthy of an A110 and others linked to Formula 1. In short, it is both pleasant and fun, and it gives you only one desire: to drive… at a brisk pace. You may have guessed it, we conducted this Alpine A290 test with the “Sport” mode engaged.
From the first few kilometers, an obvious first impression was that the Alpine A290 is “well-born,” to use a motorsport expression. The car responds perfectly to our slightest commands, whether at the wheel, the right pedal, or the brake pedal. The “catapult effect” intrinsically linked to electric cars is felt when you press this famous right pedal to the floor. For more power underfoot, you engage the “OV” button to enjoy an electric boost. During overtaking phases, this button could prove to be a lifesaver, even if we, of course, took no risks behind the wheel of the A290. However, to avoid getting tired of it too quickly, use it sparingly or, humorously, to wake up a passenger who made the mistake of falling asleep.
As we took control of this Alpine A290, we were literally immersed in a sound environment that was astonishingly realistic, despite being virtual, as the A290 makes noise, yes! Equipped with an innovative “Alpine Drive Sound”, with two interior soundscapes “Alternative Sound” (for daily driving) and “Alpine Sound” (for a more immersive, sporty drive), the A290 offers a certain auditory pleasure. It is somewhat like in the cinema, where the music of a film significantly contributes to the emotions felt. In the A290, this works wonderfully. Depending on acceleration, torque, and other mechanical parameters, it generates different noises and sounds to provide auditory feedback. Alpine Carscollaborated with acoustical engineers from Devialet to create immersive harmonics and tones. Once again, believe us, it is quite amazing in terms of sensation, with the Devialet Hi-Fi system consisting of 9 speakers, including a subwoofer, for a power output of 615 W.
Approaching the first turns, it was time to test the A290’s braking. Surprise, when pressing the brake pedal, you need to push further than on the Renault 5 E-Tech electric for the car to start slowing down significantly. Alpine engineerswanted to offer A290 buyers “the best of both worlds,” namely comfortable city braking without jolts and highly effective braking when needed. For us, a sporty car means direct and short braking engagement. This is not the case with the A290, even though its braking system is very effective and reassuring.
Where it becomes impressive is in the curves, as the A290 doesn’t move an inch, with its rear end seemingly “glued” to the road. Some will love it, others less so, as it removes the sliding aspect inherent to a sporty car. Indeed, the A290’selectronics brake the inner wheel to allow the car to round the corner. This makes you want, and it’s a good thing, to enter turns even faster.
In tighter curve exits, this time it’s the double “Torque Vectoring” system that gives the A290 excellent traction. At the electric motor’s output, a primary system reduces the torque sent to the front axle if the front wheels of the A290 electric traction are not straight enough, while the driver accelerates too early. Then, through a secondary torque distribution system, the torque is “intelligently” distributed to one or the other front wheel. It’s at this point that the A290 becomes playful, meaning permissive in corner exits. For an electric car, it’s worth recalling that torque is available instantly. In “Sport” mode, the A290 allows the driver to play safely, which is a strong point. However, do not expect the reactions obtained with a mechanical limited-slip differential. It’s not the same, but it’s once again very fun and effective. It’s never mentioned enough in our reviews, but it’s also worth highlighting the incredible grip provided by the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 on this A290.
We then tackle the turns at a fast pace, with the Alpine sports chassis and hydraulic bump stops playing a “perfect tune,” despite the vehicle’s weight: 1,479 kg empty. Weight, always weight, this “enemy” of automotive sportiness. Hyper-agile, dynamic as desired, there is nothing negative to say about the A290’s sporty behavior, which is very high level for an electric car, also for the comfort felt when the road conditions deteriorate. Well done, Alpine Cars.
It was during our few laps on the circuit that this weight was felt at much higher speeds, especially in corner entry, but the pleasure remained at the controls of the Alpine A290. At this moment, we regretted that Alpine Cars’ first electric caronly develops 220 hp and 300 Nm of torque. The competition does better, notably with the 325 hp Cupra Born VZ, but with a weight of over 2,000 kg, that’s too much! Ultimately, the A290 has the advantage in terms of the weight-to-power ratio. Let’s move on to the performance of the 160 kW/220 hp Alpine A290: 0 to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and a top speed of 170 km/h.
Now we come to the consumption of this Alpine A290. Admittedly, our test was not aimed at real-world efficiency, as we drove at a spirited pace. Result: 24.5 kWh/100 km. A combined WLTP range of 226 miles for the 160 kW/220 hp A290and 236 miles for the 130 kW/180 hp A290, figures far from those offered by the Renault 5 E-Tech electric (254 miles in combined WLTP for the 110 kW/150 hp version).
In conclusion to our review of the Alpine A290, it can be considered, as an electric car, a sports car, but this “electric toy” has no interest for us in the context of daily commuting. In the city, these aerodynamic appendages could quickly be damaged, and its range is logically lower than that of the superb, more efficient, and less expensive Renault 5 E-Tech electric, which is more versatile. The Alpine A290 starts at $41,600 (excluding ecological bonus) for the 130 kW/180 hp version in “GT” finish. Our high-end test model, the 160 kW/220 hp A290 in “GTS” finish, starts at $48,000(excluding ecological bonus).
Text and review: Frédéric Lagadec
Photos: Alpine Cars
