We Embrace the Future of Alpine: Compact, Electrifyingly Fun, and Full of Personality

Alpine's future is electric. Yes, you read that correctly. While this news might come as a shock to some, the electrification of the automotive market is here to stay. Many brands have already decided that all their upcoming releases will be electric.

The A290, the new model from the French brand, is also striking and high-performing. Beneath its compact and urban-friendly body lies an engine capable of delivering 220 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds and achieve a range of 380 km. Special features for outside the city, and daily capabilities with 5 doors, 5 seats, and 326 litres of boot space. This is at least in the GTS version, the highest, and the GT Performance; there is another version with 180 horsepower for the GT and GT Premium.

Its short wheelbase, wider track, and intelligent torque management system give a new dimension to the characteristic agility of Alpine. The hydraulic suspension bump stops also provide the A290 with a higher level of precision and driving comfort.

The four different Alpine driving modes are activated via a button on the steering wheel: Save, Normal, Sport, and Perso. The latter allows independent adjustment of the steering assistance level, throttle response, ambient lighting, and the Alpine Drive Sound system. It's also possible to deactivate the electronic stability control.

The throttle pedal response calibration is designed to make the A290 a true sports car that's easy to control despite the high power and torque values of its electric motor. Acceleration is progressive and easy to modulate, as in the A110, whose tuning serves as a reference here. The A290 also aims to be usable and efficient. Depending on the selected driving mode, the throttle response will change, but it will always remain true to this same principle of progressiveness. All to enhance both driving pleasure and performance.

In terms of exterior design, a low and sporty side line stands out, with an Alpine light signature featuring a double X motif, a tribute to the adhesive bands used in rally cars, at the front; or the exclusive 19-inch wheels for tyres specially developed by Michelin provide the A290's steering with a considerable level of precision.

Wide fenders, side skirts with a thin body-coloured trim that stylizes them, a roof moulding in aluminium or anodized blue, a black shark antenna, logos on the fenders, body and fender contours in glossy black, and finally, the rear bumper diffuser; all this completes this striking design.

Inside, it is entirely digital. You can place your smartphone on the wireless charger and enjoy a seamless connection to the 10.1-inch touchscreen with integrated Google. Easy and very intuitive.

Also noteworthy is the exclusive three-spoke sports steering wheel with a flat centre covered in Nappa fabric. Highly sculpted and modern, it is designed to emphasize the sporty character and a wide rim for better grip. It incorporates various specific buttons inspired by the world of Formula 1 with, on the left, the RCH ('Recharge') rotary button to adjust the level of regeneration, on the right the selection of different driving modes, and at the top, the OV ('Overtake') button, which is immediately identifiable by its red colour.

In the high-end GT Premium and GTS versions, the seats, dashboard, and door panels receive Deep Blue Nappa leather upholstery. The Alpine brand appears embossed on the headrests, and the model name is embroidered in the centre of the backrest. This Nappa leather is of European origin and is carefully crafted: it is tanned with coffee beans and uses vegetable agents for its finish.