If the new Renault 5 drives so well, how can an Alpine on the same basis drive even better? Recently Irwin from InstaAutoVlog went to Mallorca to drive the first kilometers with the brand new French pride.

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In this article and accompanying video, Irwin Versteegh-Duijnstee tells you all about the new Alpine A290. According to him, a car could easily lead to a five-, fourteen-, or perhaps even a hundredfold increase in the number of Alpine registrations.

Same base as the Renault 5

And yes, it is certainly no secret that the new Renault 5 serves as the basis for the Alpine A290, not only in terms of the floor pan but also the basic shape. Alpine managed to create a kind of super Renault 5 thanks to six centimeters more track width, a five-centimeter wider body (thanks to wheel arch extensions), and standard 19-inch alloy wheels. 

Styling features

This model also features characteristic components such as double headlights, a so-called swoosh (design feature on the side of the car), and a subtle ducktail spoiler on the tailgate. The GTS version was driven for the test. It is recognized by a chrome-black Alpine emblem on the side screen and 19-inch Noir light-alloy wheels, type Snowflake.

Battery range

The A290 is heavily based on the Renault 5 in terms of technology. For example, it has a 52kWh battery, an 11kW three-phase onboard charger, a 100kW DC fast charging function, and a heat pump with active battery heating and cooling. However, instead of a 150hp electric motor, the A290 has a minimum 180hp electric motor. The GT Performance offers 220hp and 300Nm on the front wheels. The range is about 385 kilometers on a full battery.

Driving behavior

With the GTS’s powerful engine, the Alpine A290 accelerates to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds. This hot hatch demands driving skills. Despite the grip of the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tires, the A290 increasingly searches for more traction under hard acceleration, which makes the typically clinical EV feeling disappear.

On the track, the weight distribution (57 percent front, 43 percent rear) ensures dynamic, playful handling. The rear is supple, which prevents understeer and allows for sharp turns. One area for improvement is the steering feedback, which could be a bit more precise.

Not stiff, even comfortable

Despite its playful nature, the A290 offers a surprising amount of comfort. Thanks to techniques such as hydraulic bump stops and a multi-link rear suspension, this hot hatch drives smoothly without being stiff. This is extra impressive considering the high weight of 1479 kilos and the 19-inch wheels. In terms of comfort, it is no less than the Renault 5.

Alpine A290 in pictures

Want to see all the details about the driving characteristics of the new Alpine A290?