Alpine’s highly anticipated A290 electric hot hatch enters the market as one of 2025’s most awaited EVs. The model builds on the acclaimed Renault 5 platform with Alpine’s performance expertise.
The A290 launches as Alpine’s entry-level model, positioned beneath the A390 crossover and A110 sports coupe in what the company calls its electric “dream garage.” Starting at £33,500 and ranging to £37,500, it targets the Mini Electric Cooper SE and 254bhp Mini John Cooper Works Electric.
The EV hot hatch segment continues expanding with competitors like Abarth’s 500e and 600e, plus the Volkswagen ID.3 GTX offering different power and price points.
Design and Interior
Alpine starts with the Renault 5’s design foundation – itself praised for sharp lines and proportions. The A290 adds muscle through door scoops, body kit, and larger wheels.
Engineers widened the track by 60mm for a more aggressive stance. Flared wheel arches and side skirts emphasize the width while showcasing 19-inch “snowflake” alloy wheels. The front bumper features more angular lines with larger air scoops.
X-shaped running lights provide a rally-inspired appearance.
At the rear, a ducktail spoiler and diffuser enhance the R5’s lines. The design makes the Mini appear bloated in comparison.
Inside, Alpine shares significant components with the R5 while adding distinctive touches. The screens, buttons, and layout remain similar, but the Alpine features a unique center console with a three-button drive selector borrowed from the A110.
A special steering wheel includes center line stitching and a red “overtake” button for power boosts. A Ferrari-style dial adjusts brake regeneration force.
Interior materials receive upgrades – the Renault’s fabric seats become blue leather, the dashboard gains leather finish with a backlit Alpine badge. Even door tops benefit from improved plastics in front positions.
Rear space remains tight due to the R5’s dimensions. The boot offers 326 litres and the five-door body provides more practicality than a Mini hatch.
The 10-inch central screen uses Renault’s Google-based operating system, delivering smart and responsive performance. Alpine-specific elements include live telemetry showing G-forces, overtake boost potential, lap times, and brake temperatures.
Users can film track sessions on their phones and overlay data via the Alpine app. A coaching mode helps with sight lines and managing lift-off oversteer, plus video game-style challenges.
Performance and Battery
Alpine engineers extensively modified the AmpR small platform shared with the Renault 5. While retaining the same 52kWh battery, they’ve upgraded numerous components.
Two motor options are available – a 178bhp unit for GT models and a 217bhp version for GT Performance and GTS variants. The lower-powered version produces 210lb ft and achieves 0-62mph in 7.4 seconds.
The A290 GTS increases torque to 221lb ft and cuts 0-62mph time to 6.4 seconds.
Chassis modifications elevate the A290 above standard hatchbacks. A custom subframe improves motor positioning for better handling. Suspension receives retuning and stiffening, with hydraulic bump stops and dedicated front and rear anti-roll bars improving responsiveness.
Upgraded Brembo brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport 5 S5 tires on higher-spec models provide additional grip.
The result delivers a balanced, controlled, and engaging experience operating at roughly 8/10ths capability.
Pressing the throttle in Sport mode or hitting the red OV button produces torque steer, electronic sound effects, and digital dials replaced by a “hyperspace” graphic. It’s quick from standstill with good mid-range pull, though the 300kg heavier Mini JCW achieves 62mph half a second faster with more responsive throttle response.
The braking from the unusually high-set pedal is powerful and linear, with seamless transition from regenerative to friction systems.
Combined with impressive Pilot Sport grip levels, this builds confidence to explore the A290’s abilities.
In corners, the Alpine proves direct and lively while maintaining balance. Drivers can attack apexes and adjust lines with throttle input for playful but stable handling. Steering is precise and well-weighted, though it lacks the aggressive character expected from a hot hatch.
An Abarth 600e feels keener in corners with less body roll.
This may result from Alpine balancing performance with comfort. The A290 runs firmer than an R5 but maintains suppleness missing from rivals, especially the harsh Mini JCW.
The Mini exhibits less cornering roll, but the Alpine handles hours of driving without the washing machine sensation.
It’s clearly a better all-rounder for urban driving and motorway cruising, perhaps compensating for the slightly softer driving character.
The retained 52kWh battery with 100kW charging offers an official 226-mile range and real-world performance around 150-160 miles during spirited driving. While not exceptional, rivals can’t improve on these figures.
Pricing and Specifications
The Alpine A290 range starts at £33,500 for the basic GT model, rising to £37,500 for the tested GTS and £38,500 for the limited GTS Première Édition.
Every version includes full LED lighting, 19-inch alloys, and privacy glass as standard. Heated seats and steering wheel, fully connected 10-inch infotainment, wireless phone charging, and adaptive cruise control also come standard.
GT Premium adds two-tone Nappa leather, bi-color roof, upgraded audio system, and blue brake calipers. GT Performance brings the more powerful motor, Pilot Sport S5 tires, telematics system, black badging, red calipers, and recycled fabric interior.
The GTS combines the powerful motor with all GT Premium equipment plus Performance variant tires and telemetry.
The Première Édition adds optional advanced safety and driving packages, along with special badging, carpeting, and blue wheel centers.
Alpine A290 GTS Specifications:
- Price: £37,500
- Powertrain: Single-motor, front-wheel-drive
- Battery: 52kWh
- Power: 217bhp
- Torque: 221lb ft
- Top speed: 105mph
- 0-62mph: 6.4 seconds
- Range: 226 miles
- Consumption: 3.7m/kWh
- Charging: up to 100kW
The Alpine A290 emerges as a hugely likeable and enjoyable machine. It looks fantastic and feels appropriately upgraded from the basic R5 foundation.
It’s quick, lively, and engaging – yet feels like there’s untapped potential. The compromise between daily usability and driving excitement means it’s not quite as aggressive as pure hot hatch enthusiasts might prefer.
