Have you heard about the Renault 5? Well, the Alpine A290 is its feistier version. The build of Alpine looks quite similar to Renault, but it is more muscular, wider, and longer. This model is one of Alpine’s first electric cars, and it aims to bring sportiness to the world of electric vehicles.
If you are someone who is interested in something sporty, then this car is the perfect choice for you. At Motorslash, we discuss all about the top automobiles that are making it big in the industry. Stay tuned and learn more about them here.
What Makes The Alpine A290 Stand Out?
If you are planning on purchasing this car, you must know some important points about it:
Design & Looks
The Alpine A290 has a sporty and modern design. It borrows some ideas from the classic Alpine style, but with a modern shape and clear electric-car identity. The front has unique LED headlights and a wide stance that looks strong and bold. It does not look like a regular small city car; it feels more like a hot hatch with attitude.
Inside, the cabin has big screens and a digital dashboard that gives all the important information clearly. The touchscreen infotainment system runs on Google software, so it’s easy to use and includes features like Google Maps, voice control, and smartphone connectivity.
Electric Power & Performance
The Alpine A290 is powered by a 52 kWh battery pack and only comes as an electric vehicle. You can choose between two power levels:
- 180 hp for a smooth, everyday driving feel.
- 220 hp for a stronger and quicker drive.
- The stronger version can go from 0–100 km/h in about 6.4 seconds, which is quick for a small electric car.
This car uses front-wheel drive, and power goes to the front wheels only. The battery is sized well for short and medium trips, and it supports fast charging up to about 100 kW, which means you can go from low to 80% charge in about 30 minutes at a fast charger.
Range & Real-World Driving
The official electric range is around 226–236 miles (WLTP) on a full charge. In real life, the exact range might be a bit lower depending on weather, speed, and how you drive.
Many owners find that on long motorway trips or in cold weather, the range might drop faster than expected, sometimes below official figures. This is normal for all electric cars, especially in colder climates.
Handling & Ride Quality
One thing many people like about the A290 is how fun it feels to drive. It handles corners confidently and feels lively on twisty roads. The suspension is tuned to be a bit firm, so you feel connected to the road.
That said, the steering does not feel heavy or very textured some reviewers say it lacks “feel” compared to classic sporty cars. This means you won’t feel every tiny detail under your hands, but it is still accurate and safe.
For everyday city driving and smooth country roads, the ride is comfortable. On rough surfaces or big bumps, you may feel more stiffness because of the sporty setup.
Interior Space & Comfort
The Alpine A290 is a small car, so space is limited. Up front, most drivers will be comfortable, but taller people might find it a bit tight. Rear seats are smaller and best for short journeys.
The boot (trunk) space is 326 litres, which is quite good for this size of car and larger than some rivals like the Mini Electric. However, some simple everyday features like cup holders are missing in standard models, and this has been pointed out by some owners online.
Technology & Safety
The A290 comes with modern tech inside, including a 10.3-inch infotainment screen that feels fast and easy to use. It supports smartphone connections like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane assist, driver monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Its safety rating is four stars from Euro NCAP, which is good but not the highest available. Optional safety features like blind-spot warning and safe exit alert can be added with extra packs.
Price & Warranty
The Alpine A290 is a premium small electric car, so it costs more than simple city cars. Prices start around the mid-£30,000 range in some markets. Standard warranty coverage is similar to many rivals, and in some places it might include an 8-year battery warranty.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Sporty and modern design.
- Strong electric performance.
- Good tech inside with a Google-based system.
- Fun to drive and confident on roads.
Cons:
- Rear seat space is small.
- Some features, like cup holders, are missing.
- Safety rating is good, but not top of the class.
- Range in cold weather or fast driving can drop more than expected.
Conclusion
The Alpine A290 is not just another small electric car; it brings a sporty feel, good performance, and a strong style that stands out. It is easy to live with as a daily vehicle but still exciting when you want more fun. If you want a compact EV that feels more like a driver’s car than a normal city hatch, the A290 is worth considering in 2026. Want to know more about top automobiles? Catch the latest updates at Motorslash.
