The internal combustion engine may be sputtering towards its twilight, but fear not, driving enthusiasts. The spirit of the hot hatch is alive and well, and it's getting a jolt of electric adrenaline with the arrival of the Alpine A290. This feisty Frenchman takes the familiar silhouette of the Renault 5 and injects a potent dose of performance DNA, proving that electric vehicles (EVs) can be as thrilling to drive as their gasoline-guzzling counterparts.
A Retro Silhouette Gets a Modern Heart
At first glance, the A290 might fool you. Its design retains the boxy charm of the beloved Renault 5, a nod to the golden age of hot hatches. But beneath the retro skin lies a thoroughly modern electric drivetrain. Alpine, the Renault subsidiary known for its pedigree in motorsport, hasn't just swapped an engine – they've built a car specifically tailored for spirited driving.
A comprehensive redesign separates the A290 from its Renault cousin. The track has been widened by a significant 60mm, giving the car a more aggressive stance. The suspension gets a complete overhaul, featuring a new subframe for the electric motor, bespoke springs and dampers, and revised knuckles. Alpine even borrows the trick hydraulic bump stops from the Renault Megane RS, ensuring sharp handling and a connected feel on twisty roads.
Electric Performance with Everyday Usability
The A290 comes in two flavors – the GT and the range-topping GTS. Both pack a punch, with the GT offering a healthy 215 horsepower and a respectable 0-100 km/h time of 7.4 seconds. The GTS ups the ante to 271 horsepower, shaving a full second off the sprint to 100 km/h.
But performance isn't just about acceleration figures. Alpine has focused on delivering a dynamic driving experience. The instant torque of the electric motor ensures exhilarating pick-up, while the reworked suspension promises sharp handling and responsive steering.
Thankfully, practicality isn't sacrificed at the altar of performance. The A290 boasts a range of 236 miles (380 km) on the WLTP cycle, putting it squarely in the realm of everyday usability. DC fast charging allows for a 15% to 80% top-up in around 30 minutes, making longer journeys a breeze. The A290 even offers bi-directional charging, allowing you to sell energy back to the grid during peak demand periods – a feature that could become increasingly valuable as renewable energy integration expands.
Tech that Enhances the Driving Experience
The A290 isn't all about old-school thrills with a new-age powertrain. Alpine has integrated some clever technology to elevate the driving experience. A unique feature is the "OV" button, a push-and-hold function that delivers a temporary burst of power, perfect for overtaking maneuvers.
One area where electric vehicles have traditionally fallen short is sound. Alpine acknowledges this and has developed its own "Alpine Driving Sound." This system goes beyond simply replicating an engine – it uses sounds from the electric motors themselves, creating an authentic and engaging aural experience.
Stepping Inside the A290
The A290's interior blends classic French design sensibilities with a modern, tech-focused approach. The cabin retains the sporty feel with well-bolstered seats and a driver-centric layout. While official details are scarce, expect a digital instrument cluster and a central touchscreen infotainment system to handle navigation, audio, and climate control.
Alpine promises high-quality materials throughout the cabin, ensuring a premium feel that matches the car's performance aspirations.
