Alpine A290: Elektryzujący hot hatch w Czechach

Alpine A290, now officially arriving on the Czech market, is closely related to the retro electric vehicle Renault 5 E-Tech. This hot hatch is generating significant interest, and now it's time to delve into its specifications via the configuration tool provided by Alpine's Czech representation.

A290 is available in two performance levels and five different trim options, including the exclusive Première Edition. The starting price for the A290 in the Czech Republic is set at 975.000 CZK, offering the standard GT trim.

For this price, buyers receive a front-mounted electric motor delivering a robust 130 kW (178 horsepower) and an impressive torque of 285 Nm, paired with a 52 kWh battery. This configuration promises a driving range of up to 380 km. For those seeking an enhanced experience, the GT Premium trim is available starting at 1.055.000 CZK, offering additional luxuries.

The standard GT equipment includes 19-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control, full-LED headlights, fabric upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, a 10.1-inch infotainment system with navigation, a heat pump, and a comprehensive parking sensor package including front, side, and rear sensors with a rearview camera. The GT Premium variant enhances this with Nappa leather seat upholstery, a heated steering wheel, a high-quality Devialet audio system with nine speakers, blue brake calipers, and a blue decorative roof strip.

Importantly, the only non-premium body color available across all trims of the A290 is Deep Black.

While the Alpine A290 is more than just a slightly sportier version of the Renault 5 E-Tech, it's worth noting the price comparison. The highest-spec Renault 5 E-Tech, with a maximum power output of 110 kW (150 hp) and a 52 kWh battery for a range of 410 km, is priced at 849.000 CZK. Therefore, stepping up to the A290 requires at least an additional 126.000 CZK.

The more powerfully tuned electric motor, rated at 160 kW (218 hp) and a torque of 300 Nm, is reserved for the GT Performance (starting at 1.050.000 CZK) and GTS trims (1.125.000 CZK). The GT Performance adds sports tires, red brake calipers, and the Alpine-Telemetrics Expert telemetry system, while the GTS expands upon the GT Premium features with added telemetry, performance tires, and the distinctive Snowflake design for its 19-inch wheels.

The Première Edition, starting at 1.165.000 CZK, is based on the more powerful A290 variant and will be limited to just 1955 units. This edition includes an expanded suite of assistance systems, the same 19-inch Snowflake design wheels, Michelin sports tires, a Devialet audio system, additional French flags on the rear pillars, limited edition plaques inside the cabin, and for an additional 35.000 CZK, buyers can choose from three special body paint options with different wheel designs.

Regarding the technical specifications, the A290 boasts a weight of 1479 kg, dimensions of 3997x1823x1512 mm, a wheelbase of 2534 mm, and a trunk volume of 326 liters, ensuring practicality alongside sporty performance.

The Alpine brand has a rich history, established in 1955 by Jean Rédélé, the son of a Renault dealership owner. The first vehicle, the A106, was unveiled in the same year, with only 251 units produced over six years. The brand saw considerable success in motorsport, but unfortunately ceased operations in 1996. It was revived in 2012 with the A110-50 concept, leading to the production model A110, known for being one of the most engaging sports cars of the 2010s.