Alpine A290 Review: A Closer Look at This Electric Hatch Lineup and Its Performance

The Alpine A290 range—featuring the GT, GT Premium, GT Performance, GTS, and limited GTS Premier Edition—delivers exciting choices for electric hot hatch fans.

Alpine has entered the electric vehicle arena with the A290, a hot hatch aimed at drivers who love performance and sustainability. This compact, fully-electric car brings together sporty dynamics and an efficient electric powertrain, offering a refreshing option in the world of urban EVs.

Alpine A290 Review

Bold design for compact performance


The A290 stands out with its compact, dynamic design. At just under four meters long, this electric hatch is built on the AmpR Small platform, developed specifically for EVs. Wider tracks and a low center of gravity give the A290 a muscular look and stable feel on the road. Its precise dimensions—3,990mm long, 1,820mm wide, and 1,520mm high with a 2,530mm wheelbase—allow for excellent maneuverability in tight spaces while maintaining stability at high speeds.

Key exterior elements include a unique four-light headlight arrangement, drawing inspiration from rally cars, and a playful light animation that activates when approaching the vehicle. Features like the wide side skirts, an aluminum roof trim, and the option for a French flag on the C-pillar all add to the car’s distinctive look. A ducktail spoiler and aerodynamic side skirts complete the design, enhancing performance as well as appearance.

Alpine A290 Exterior

Interior built for comfort and fun


The interior of the A290 is practical yet sporty. Designed to seat five comfortably, it offers a 326-liter trunk, making it practical for everyday city driving. The seats, made from eco-friendly materials, are both heated and ergonomic, prioritizing comfort while reflecting Alpine’s commitment to sustainability. Inside, a sleek blue and grey color scheme with Alpine details adds an exclusive touch.

Alpine A290 Interior side view

The cockpit is designed with the driver in mind. The three-spoke steering wheel, inspired by Formula 1, has control buttons that keep essential functions within easy reach. A 10.1-inch center infotainment screen and a separate 10.25-inch digital display keep the driver informed and connected. Physical climate control knobs allow for easy adjustments without taking attention off the road.

Alpine A290 Features

Power and platform - 2 engine choices


The A290 offers two powertrain options for different levels of performance. The standard version delivers 180 hp, while a higher-spec 220 hp option brings extra punch with 300 Nm of torque. The 220 hp variant accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a brisk 6.4 seconds, making it one of the quicker options in the electric hatch market. A lightweight frame (1,479 kg) keeps it agile and responsive.

Suspension components, Brembo brakes, and precise torque distribution ensure a well-rounded performance. The rear multi-link axle and specialized anti-roll bars enhance stability, while different driving modes—Save, Normal, Sport, and Personal—let drivers customize the car’s responsiveness to match conditions or preferences.

FeatureStandardPerformance
EngineA290A290
Maximum Engine Power180 HP (130 kW)220 HP (160 kW)
Maximum Torque285 Nm300 Nm
Battery Capacity52 kWh52 kWh
Transmission TypeReducerReducer
ChassisAlpine Sport with Hydraulic Bump Stops & Multilink Rear SuspensionsAlpine Sport with Hydraulic Bump Stops & Multilink Rear Suspensions
TransmissionFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Body Type5 Doors Hatch5 Doors Hatch
Turning Circle Between Kerbs10.2 m10.2 m
BrakesBrembo Monoblocs 4 Pistons Front CalipersBrembo Monoblocs 4 Pistons Front Calipers
Front Brake Disc Diameter320 mm320 mm
Rear Brake Disc Diameter288 mm288 mm
Front TyresMichelin Pilot Sport EV - 225/40R19 93VMichelin Pilot Sport 5S - 225/40R19 93V
Unladen Kerb Weight Min1,479 kg1,479 kg
Kerb Weight Min with a 75 kg Driver1,554 kg1,554 kg
Gross Vehicle Mass1,950 kg1,950 kg
Maximum Speed160 km/h170 km/h
0-62 mph7.4 s6.4 s
0-400 m15.5 s14.7 s
0-1,000 m29.5 s27.7 s
Homologation ProtocolWLTPWLTP
CO2 Emissions (Combined)0 g0 g
Combined Fuel Consumption15.8 kWh/100 km16.5 kWh/100 km
Combined Cycle Range380 km364 km
City Fuel Consumption (kWh/100 km)11.9 kWh/100 km12.6 kWh/100 km
City Cycle Range507 km480 km


Alpine A290

Innovative features with Alpine telemetrics


One of the standout tech features in the A290 is Alpine Telemetrics, accessible through a dedicated app. This system lets drivers track real-time data, offers personalized driving tips, and adds gamified challenges to the driving experience.

Live data: This feature provides real-time feedback on acceleration, braking, battery health, and cornering forces. Drivers can also monitor lap times and check technical information like engine and brake temperatures.
Coaching: Ideal for drivers looking to sharpen their skills, Coaching mode offers tips on techniques like managing skids and optimal cornering.
Challenges: For a bit of fun, the Challenges section sets skill-based tasks that reward drivers as they progress. Inspired by video game levels, each task aims to improve agility, power, or endurance in real-world driving.

Alpine A290 instrument panel

Battery life and quick-charging capabilities


The A290 is powered by a 52 kWh battery that provides up to 380 km on a full charge (WLTP estimated range), making it practical for both city driving and longer journeys. It supports fast-charging at 100 kW, meaning drivers can go from 15% to 80% charge in around 30 minutes—enough to add 150 km in just 15 minutes. The car also includes bidirectional charging, allowing it to power other devices or send energy back to the grid if needed.

Alpine A290 Battery charging

Trim options and features


The A290 is available in a range of 4 trim levels, catering to different needs and preferences:

A290 GT: The entry-level GT trim comes with a solid set of features, including 19-inch alloy wheels for a sporty look, LED headlights for improved visibility, and adaptive cruise control for a smoother driving experience on highways. The reversing camera makes parking easier, while the heated sports seats and Nappa leather steering wheel add comfort and a touch of luxury.

A290 GT Premium: The GT Premium builds on the GT with additional stylish features. It includes a contrasting black roof and rear privacy glass for a sleek, premium appearance. The blue-painted brake calipers offer a distinctive look, while the Devialet 615-watt stereo and Alpine Drive Sound system provide high-quality audio. Inside, you'll find Nappa leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and a wireless smartphone charger for added convenience. The folding door mirrors complete the package, making it even more functional.

A290 Premiere Edition La Bleue Livery

A290 GT Performance: The GT Performance trim takes things further with distinctive Alpine black chrome badges and red-painted brake calipers that highlight its sportier nature. It also comes with Michelin Pilot Sport 5S tires for enhanced grip and performance. The addition of Alpine Telemetrics Premium offers advanced driving data and performance tracking, elevating the driving experience.

A290 GTS: For those who want the best of everything, the GTS trim delivers top-tier performance and style. This version includes exclusive 19-inch ‘Snowflake’ black alloy wheels, which not only look striking but also add to the car’s sporty appeal. It's designed for drivers who want a combination of high-performance features and eye-catching design elements.

A290 Premiere Edition Beta Livery

For collectors, the A290 GTS Premier Edition is a limited run of 1,955 units, honoring Alpine’s founding year. This version includes exclusive detailing and extra features for added value.

A290 Premiere Edition La Grise Livery

Advanced safety and driver assistance


The A290 doesn’t skimp on safety, with 26 driver assistance features. These include systems like driver attention monitoring and automatic emergency braking. A “My Safety Switch” button gives drivers a quick way to customize their ADAS preferences without navigating multiple menus, letting them focus on the road.

The Alpine A290 reimagines what a hot hatch can be in the electric era. With its stylish design, performance-focused engineering, and innovative technology, it’s built to attract a new generation of drivers. By combining driving excitement with sustainable energy, the A290 is a strong start for Alpine’s electric future, delivering a compelling mix of practicality and performance in a compact package.

Last updated on 07-11-2024. Published in Car News
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