The Alpine A290, a fresh take on the electric hot hatch, is here to challenge conventions and reignite passion for compact performance cars in the EV era. With its sporty aesthetics, sharp handling, and competitive pricing, it positions itself as a strong contender in a rapidly evolving market. But how does it truly fare on real-world roads, especially in less-than-ideal conditions? Let’s dive in.
First Impressions: A Familiar Yet Bold Design
At first glance, the Alpine A290 unmistakably carries the DNA of the classic Renault 5, with a modern twist. Its design upgrades include gloss black wheel arch extensions, deeper side sills, and aggressive front and rear bumpers. A highlight is the X-shaped daytime running lights, which set it apart from the square DRLs found on the regular Renault 5. Buyers can choose from four striking colors: Alpine Blue Metallic, Metallic White, Metallic Black, and Matte Gray.
The car’s aesthetic appeal extends to its wheels. Standard 19-inch alloys vary slightly depending on the trim, with the higher-performance GTS trim featuring a distinct design to complement its enhanced power and sportier character.
Performance and Powertrain
The Alpine A290 comes in two trims—GT and GTS—offering different levels of power and range. The GT produces 177 brake horsepower (bhp) and boasts a range of up to 236 miles on a single charge. Meanwhile, the GTS ups the ante with 211 bhp, though this comes at the cost of a slightly reduced range of 226 miles.
While its acceleration is brisk, with 0-60 mph achieved in about 6.5 seconds, the A290 is not about outright speed. It prioritizes balance, handling, and driver engagement. Torque steer—a common characteristic of front-wheel-drive cars—is noticeable during hard acceleration, but the sharp, direct steering and minimal body roll more than compensate for this minor drawback.
Interior: Practicality Meets Performance
Inside, the A290 borrows heavily from the Renault 5 but adds a performance-oriented flair. The redesigned center console replaces the regular gear selector stalk with buttons for Drive, Reverse, and Neutral. This change, while unique, has practical downsides, such as the loss of cup holders, which might inconvenience daily drivers.
The GTS trim elevates the interior experience with leather-wrapped seats, dashboard, center console, and door panels. Other features include a Google-based infotainment system, which gains additional telemetry functions in the GTS, such as lap timing and brake temperature monitoring. The sport seats, with ample bolstering, ensure comfort and stability during spirited drives.
Driving Dynamics: A Throwback to Hot Hatch Purity
Driving the A290 feels like a nod to hot hatches of yesteryear. Unlike modern, overpowered hot hatches, this car’s approachable limits make it engaging on real roads. Its suspension strikes an impressive balance, providing firm yet forgiving damping that maintains composure over rough surfaces.
However, the lack of a manual gearbox and the synthetic sound of the electric motor might leave some enthusiasts yearning for more mechanical interaction. While Alpine has amplified the motor’s natural hum for a more pronounced auditory experience, it falls short of the visceral excitement provided by internal combustion engines.
Pricing and Market Position
The Alpine A290 is competitively priced within the electric hot hatch market. The base GT model starts at around €32,000, while the GTS is priced closer to €37,500. This undercuts rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N by a significant margin, making it an attractive option for enthusiasts seeking performance on a budget.
The Future: The Renault 5 Turbo Reimagined
Looking ahead, Renault has announced a modern interpretation of the iconic Renault 5 Turbo. Dubbed the Turbo 3E, this wide-bodied, rear-wheel-drive EV promises up to 500 bhp and a 0-62 mph time of just 3.5 seconds. With a carbon fiber structure and design inspired by its 1980s predecessors, the Turbo 3E aims to capture the essence of its legendary forebears while embracing the future of mobility.
Verdict
The Alpine A290 represents a significant step forward in making electric hot hatches accessible and exciting. It’s not the fastest or the most powerful, but it’s undeniably fun to drive and beautifully designed. For those seeking a blend of practicality, performance, and affordability in the EV space, the A290 is hard to beat.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting model and the forthcoming Renault 5 Turbo. If you’re curious about the regular Renault 5, check out our in-depth review!
