Photo: Daimler AG
Considering that Renault's crossovers have as much passion in them as a German cement commercial, the Alpine SUV can only be a good thing.
Even though the sportscar that marks the rebirth of this iconic brand has yet to be launched, the people in charge of the brand only seem to want to talk about a 4x4.
Right now, it's only a 'what if?" kind of car. But with everybody from Aston Martin to Dacia chipping away at the 4x4 segment, it's only a matter of time.
While Alpine would have access to the Common Module Family (CMF) platform that underpins the Megane and Qashqai, it's also possible that the architecture could come from elsewhere.
When Nissan sub-brand Infiniti wanted an entry-level model, it went to Mercedes-Benz, who developed it by re-skinning the GLA-CLass. Alpine might also use the MFA platform, although it will probably be the more flexible MFA2 that's going to underpin the upcoming A-Class.
According to Caradisiac, the Alpine 4x4 won't by approved until 2020 or later, meaning that the second-gen GLA-Class will be around. Mercedes-Benz would be a far better-equipped partner than Caterham, but it makes you wonder how this version would be different/better than something like the GLA 45.
Some of Mercedes' diesel and petrol engines might find their way under the hood, meaning that this will be a more volume-oriented car than the sports coupe. Even front-wheel drive will be available, meaning the Alpine brand dilution will be a thorough one.
Naturally, a putting the sport before the utility is a smart move. But by the time Alpine gets a production car ready, the market will be inundated with rivals that blend affordability and power. For instance, Peugeot already has the 3008 GT with rumors suggesting a GTI is under consideration. SEAT's Ateca Cupra will pack 300 horsepower and cost less than €40,000. So the French better bring their A-game.
Right now, it's only a 'what if?" kind of car. But with everybody from Aston Martin to Dacia chipping away at the 4x4 segment, it's only a matter of time.
While Alpine would have access to the Common Module Family (CMF) platform that underpins the Megane and Qashqai, it's also possible that the architecture could come from elsewhere.
When Nissan sub-brand Infiniti wanted an entry-level model, it went to Mercedes-Benz, who developed it by re-skinning the GLA-CLass. Alpine might also use the MFA platform, although it will probably be the more flexible MFA2 that's going to underpin the upcoming A-Class.
According to Caradisiac, the Alpine 4x4 won't by approved until 2020 or later, meaning that the second-gen GLA-Class will be around. Mercedes-Benz would be a far better-equipped partner than Caterham, but it makes you wonder how this version would be different/better than something like the GLA 45.
Some of Mercedes' diesel and petrol engines might find their way under the hood, meaning that this will be a more volume-oriented car than the sports coupe. Even front-wheel drive will be available, meaning the Alpine brand dilution will be a thorough one.
Naturally, a putting the sport before the utility is a smart move. But by the time Alpine gets a production car ready, the market will be inundated with rivals that blend affordability and power. For instance, Peugeot already has the 3008 GT with rumors suggesting a GTI is under consideration. SEAT's Ateca Cupra will pack 300 horsepower and cost less than €40,000. So the French better bring their A-game.
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