It is not only Renault that is expanding its current vehicle lineup but Alpine, too, its performance-oriented brand. The company has several crossovers in the making, some of which might apply for a U.S. visa, and also a battery-electric hot hatch.
Previewed by the A290_B Concept almost one year ago, the upcoming Alpine A290 is basically a hot hatch version of the new Renault 5 EV. It will build on the legacy of the legendary Renault 5 Alpine from the '70s and will take on the likes of other zero-emission front-wheel drive subcompact hot hatches, like MINI's Cooper SE.
If it stays true to the study shown in 2023, then it will get the same motor that develops 268 horsepower (272 ps/200 kW). If that's not enough for a modern-day sporty model, then we should note that reports also speak of a punchier variant with all-wheel drive. The lineup will probably include a third model as well, which might get 215 hp (218 ps/160 kW).
Keep in mind that these are all speculations at this point. What we do know about it is that it uses the CMF-B EV platform, just like the upcoming Renault 5. The next Nissan Micra is expected to use this construction, too, which is said to borrow some 70% of the parts used on the CMF-B, which is the foundation stone of the latest Clio, Captur, Nissan Juke, Mitsubishi Colt, and others.
Photo: Baldauf
Set to dominate the next Renault 5 lineup in terms of power and performance, with the Renaultsport sub-brand being dead and buried, the Alpine 290 will feature a sportier appearance, with bigger front and rear bumpers, fender flares, and dedicated logos. It has a five-door body style, with the rear handles being integrated next to the C-pillars, exclusive wheels, and a few other bits and bobs.
Uprated brakes with discs at all four corners will also be part of the package, and it will have a multi-link suspension at the rear. This, combined with the low center of gravity, should give it sporty credentials to the point where it might copy the MINI's go-kart feel. We are very excited about this model and think it will be one of the best in the class, even if it has some very big shoes to fill (ahem, Renault 5 Alpine!).
No one knows exactly when the Alpine A290 is due, but it might make an official appearance in the next few months or early 2025. In the meantime, the French brand will continue testing various prototypes of the car, just like this tester that was spied doing its thing in the cold in Northern Europe. Would you want the Alliance to launch it in our market?
After a series of unfortunate events put an end to Cristian's dream of entering a custom built & tuned old-school Dacia into a rally competition, he moved on to drive press cars and write for a living. He's worked for several automotive online journals and now he's back at autoevolution after his first tour in the mid-2000s. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News