Renault’s classic city car, the Renault 5, gets an aggressive makeover with the introduction of the Alpine A290. The Alpine version retains the stylish charm of the original while adding a sporty edge, highlighted by the French brand’s iconic quad light theme featuring an “X” motif, a nod to the protective tape used on old rally cars to prevent shattered glass from scattering in case of an accident.
Photo: Alpine
The A290 is powered by a single front-mounted motor, available in two performance levels. The base and GT Premium trims deliver 174 hp, while the GT Performance and GTS trims ramp up to 215 horsepower. With 221 pound-feet of instant torque, the A290 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds.
Photo: Alpine
Mirroring the regular Renault 5, the A290 features a rare multi-link independent rear suspension for its segment. Alpine enhances agility with bespoke anti-roll bars at both the front and rear. In collaboration with Michelin, three specialized tire options are available: Pilot Sport EV for summer, Pilot Sport S5 for all weather conditions, and Pilot Alpin 5 for cold and snowy roads.
Photo: Alpine
Consistent performance is a key highlight, with no power loss even when the battery is low. The A290 is equipped with a 52.0-kilowatt-hour battery, offering an estimated range of 380 km. It supports DC charging at 100 kilowatts, allowing the battery to charge from 15 to 80 percent in just 30 minutes. A quick 15-minute charge provides approximately 150 km of range.
Photo: Alpine
Braking power comes from front Brembo brakes with four-piston red or blue calipers sourced from Alpine’s mid-engine sports car, the A110. The A290 features four driving modes: Save, Normal, Sport, and Perso. The Perso mode allows drivers to customize throttle response, steering assistance, artificial engine noise, and ambient lighting. The Alpine Driving Sound highlights the high-frequency sounds of the electric motor, enhancing the driving experience.
Photo: Alpine
The A290 incorporates the driving sensations loved in the A110 into a compact urban sportscar. It is developed with Alpine’s DNA, offering high performance and everyday comfort. Built on the Ampere electric platform, the A290 integrates energy services for home recharging, including Mobilize Power and bi-directional V2G recharging, ensuring a comprehensive electrical ecosystem.
Photo: Alpine
With its innovative design, advanced technical features, and extensive connectivity, the Alpine A290 marks a new generation for Alpine. It aims to attract both performance enthusiasts and style-conscious customers. Assembled at the Douai factory within ElectriCity and featuring a French-built electric motor from the Cléon Megafactory, the A290’s battery production will commence in France in the summer of 2025.
Photo: Alpine
“Our Alpine A290 is the first model of a new electric generation, inaugurating our Dream Garage in the finest possible way. This urban sportscar marks the introduction of Alpine to a broader public and resurrects a forgotten category, the hot hatch, so much love for the driving pleasure it delivers,” said Philippe Krief, CEO of Alpine.
Photo: Alpine
Renault is not present here in the Philippines, so the chances of the Renault 5, let alone the Alpine A290 coming to the country are very slim, so those interested may have to rely on gray market sources for their unit.
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Photo: Alpine
Photo: Alpine
Photo: Alpine
Photo: Alpine
Photo: Alpine
