In May 2023, Alpine, owned by Renault, gave a sneak peek of its return to the hot hatch market with an electric concept car called the A290_β (pronounced “A290 beta”). The car’s design blended futuristic elements with a hint of retro, inspired by the Renault 5 Prototype concept from 2021.
A month later, Alpine announced big plans with a lineup of seven new models set to hit markets by 2030, marking its first foray into mainstream car segments in its 69-year history. The first of these models is the production version of the A290, an electric hot hatch launching initially in a limited Premiere Edition, alongside regular production models like GT, GT Premium, GT Performance, and GTS trims.
All versions of the A290 feature a single motor on the front axle, delivering 221 pound-feet of torque instantly. Depending on the trim, the motor is tuned to produce either 177 horsepower (GT and GT Premium) or 215 horsepower (GT Performance and GTS), with an additional boost available via an “Overtake” button on the steering wheel.
This button unleashes extra power for a short burst, clearly displayed on a countdown timer in the digital gauge cluster. Weighing approximately 3,261 pounds, the A290 accelerates from zero to 62 miles per hour in about 6.4 seconds for the more powerful trims, slightly slower than the latest ICE-powered Volkswagen GTI. The car also features regenerative braking controlled by an “RCH” button on the steering wheel, offering four levels of regen for efficient energy recapture.
Powering the A290 is a 52-kWh battery pack, providing an estimated range of 236 miles on Europe’s WLTP cycle. It supports fast charging up to 100 kW, which can replenish the battery from 15% to 80% in just 30 minutes, adding about 90 miles of range in just 15 minutes.
Inside, the A290 boasts modern amenities including a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Even the base GT trim rides on stylish 19-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires, and comes equipped with LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, heated sport seats, a Nappa-leather-wrapped steering wheel, and front and rear parking assistance. Upgrades to the GT Premium and GT Performance models add luxury and sporty features respectively, such as contrasting roofs, premium audio systems, and enhanced telematics.
The top-tier regular trim, GTS, includes exclusive features and distinctive black Snowflake wheels. The A290 GTS Premiere Edition, limited to 1,955 units to commemorate Alpine’s founding year, will be offered in three themes: Beta, La Grise, and La Bleue. Alpine has not disclosed pricing yet, but it is expected to command a premium over the Renault 5 hatch, which starts at around €30,000 ($32,398 U.S.) in its home market.
