Efficiency & Charging
8/10
Performance & Driving Dynamics
8.5/10
Interior & Technology
8/10
Practicality & Usability
7.5/10
Value & Running Costs
8/10
Overall
8/10
Overview
The Alpine A290, an all-electric hot hatch, delivers driving excitement in a compact package. With its front-wheel-drive layout, it shares some mechanical elements with other models but boasts a unique platform and design crafted by the Alpine Performance Division. This vehicle, based on the Renault 5 E-tech and sharing the AmpR Small platform, stands as a premium contender against the likes of the MINI John Cooper Works Electric and the Vauxhall Corsa GSE.
Design
The A290's exterior is striking, with a wide body and rally-inspired aggressive styling. The car distinguishes itself from the Renault 5 with tracks widened by 60mm to accommodate its robust 19-inch wheels. At the front, iconic Alpine four-light headlights and X-shaped daytime running lights pay homage to rally stage tape. Side skirts, a rear diffuser, and aerodynamic lines enhance its high-performance appeal.
Interior
Inside, the A290 blends practicality with sporty elements. The driver sits lower than in the Renault 5, gripping a flat-bottomed Nappa leather sports steering wheel. This wheel features an Overtake button for power boosts and a rotary dial to adjust regenerative braking. High-quality finishes grace the interior, and the supportive sports seats come in Deep Blue fabric and two-tone Nappa leather. Although front visibility is good, thick rear pillars create blind spots. The infotainment system includes a 10.1-inch Alpine-Portal touchscreen powered by Google, alongside a 10.3-inch digital driver display.
Performance & Powertrains
Powering the A290 is an electric motor, borrowed from the Megane E-Tech, housed in a lightweight aluminum subframe. The car offers two output levels: the GT level with 180 hp and 285 Nm of torque, achieving 0-62 mph in 7.4 seconds, and the GT Performance and GTS levels with 220 hp and 300 Nm, reducing the time to 6.4 seconds and reaching up to 106 mph. A 52 kWh NMC battery pack powers all versions, providing a range of 226 miles for the 180 hp variant and 224 miles for the 220 hp model. The suspension system, multi-link rear suspension, and hydraulic bump stops ensure both comfort and stability. Brembo four-piston monobloc front brakes offer reliable stopping power. The 400V architecture supports fast charging up to 100 kW, with a 10-80% charge taking just 31 minutes.
Practicality
Despite its sporty makeover, the A290 maintains practicality with five doors and ample interior space in a car measuring just under four meters. Rear seating offers adequate space for children or shorter adults, though taller passengers might find it cramped on longer trips. Luggage capacity is generous, starting at 326 liters and expanding to 1,106 liters with rear seats folded. Interior storage includes a glove box, door pockets, and a wireless phone charging station, though it lacks traditional front cupholders. Charging cables must be stored in the main luggage area due to the absence of a front trunk.
Buying
Pricing for the Alpine A290 starts at £30,245 for the basic GT trim. The range extends to the GT Premium, emphasizing comfort, and peaks with the GTS trim at £34,245. All models come equipped with adaptive cruise control, a heat pump, lane-keeping assist, and rear parking sensors with a reverse camera. The EV Hub recommends the GT Performance variant which unlocks the full potential of the 220 hp engine and features the Alpine Torque PreControl system for enhanced traction. This variant also includes Alpine Telemetric software, Racing Red Brembo brake calipers, and Michelin Pilot Sport 5S tires, making it a standout choice for performance enthusiasts.