Get ready, hatchback fans! The Alpine A290 is here to bring some serious competition to the MINI’s upcoming electric JCW. This small but mighty all-electric hot hatchback is Alpine’s latest bid to go mainstream, and it’s got the looks and performance to back it up.
Power Meets Style
The A290 might share its roots with the Renault 5, but it’s far from just a souped-up version of it. With the same electric motor as the beefy Megane E-Tech, this little beast comes in two flavors: 178bhp and 217bhp. And while the hardware might be familiar, Alpine has given the software a total makeover.
Battery and Performance
Juiced by a 52kWh battery, the A290 expects a range of up to 235 miles on a full charge. Charging speeds peak at 100kW, getting you from 10 to 80 percent in about half an hour. Like its Renault cousin, it can also feed energy back to the grid during high-demand times.
The speedier version hits 0-62mph in a zippy 6.4 seconds, thanks to its relatively light weight of 1,479kg—200kg less than the MINI Cooper SE. Alpine’s engineers have worked magic on the chassis, with a new front cradle for the motor and a redesigned suspension for a wider, more stable track.
Handling and Tech
The A290 rides on wider 19-inch wheels and features stiffer anti-roll bars and hydraulic bump-stops from the Renaultsport Megane. The rear suspension is beefed up and could even accommodate a second motor in the future. For now, it’s front-wheel drive with a balanced 57:43 weight distribution.
There’s no mechanical differential, but Alpine’s clever software keeps wheel-spin in check before traditional traction control steps in. Multiple drive modes and a Boost mode on the steering wheel ensure maximum power and torque when you want it. Plus, brake regeneration is adjustable via a rotary switch on the steering wheel.
Design Inside and Out
Alpine’s design boss, Antony Villain, said they had fun with the A290’s design, taking cues from the iconic R5 Turbo. The car’s extra width is accentuated by flared arches and aggressive bumpers, giving it a track-ready look.
Inside, the A290 boasts retro-styled seats with blue highlights, and a centre console that’s a nod to the A110’s design. It also features a bespoke sound system developed with French audio brand Devialet, offering two augmented engine sounds that adapt to your driving.
Trims and Pricing
The A290 lineup starts with the GT spec (178bhp), with a Premium pack available for added goodies. The GT Performance model ups the ante with the 217bhp motor, and the range-topping A290 GTS combines all the best features. There’s also a limited Premier Edition with unique finishes and special liveries, including one inspired by the A290 Beta Concept.
Pricing for the UK isn’t out yet, but expect the entry-level model to start around £32,345 in France, lining up with the MINI Cooper SE and the top trims of the Abarth 600e.
So, if you’re looking for a stylish, powerful, and fun-to-drive electric hatch, the Alpine A290 might just be your next ride. Get ready to turn heads and hit the road with a smile!