The Alpine A290 has been crowned Autocar’s Best Fun EV for 2025, thanks to its blend of hot‑hatch excitement and everyday usability.
Alpine A290 Review: Price, Performance and Why It’s the Best Fun EV
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Image: Alpine A290 Review: Price, Performance and Why It’s the Best Fun EV – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
Alpine kept the classic French hot‑hatch silhouette while adding modern cues. The compact three‑door‑look hatch sits just under four metres long, making city parking a breeze. Quad headlights and a subtle aero kit give it a sporty presence without being over the top. Inside, the cabin mixes leather trim with signature blue accents, and the steering wheel – not perfectly round – houses buttons for drive modes, regenerative braking and an over‑take boost, echoing Alpine’s F1 heritage.
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Performance & Mileage
Two powertrains are offered: 180 hp (GT +) and 220 hp (GTS +), both fed by a 52 kWh battery that keeps the kerb weight under 1,500 kg. The stronger version launches from 0‑62 mph in 6.4 seconds, while the entry model is just a shade slower. What sets the A290 apart is its instant torque and low centre of gravity, giving sharp corner entry and a confident feel on twisty roads.
| Engine | Front‑mounted electric motor (180 hp / 220 hp) |
|---|---|
| Mileage | Up to 234 mi (WLTP) – realistic 180‑200 mi in mixed use |
| Price | £30,245 (GT +) – £34,245 (GTS +) |
| Top Features |
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Price & Rivals
Starting at just over £30 k after the UK electric‑car grant, the A290 sits between the budget‑friendly Renault 5 E‑Tech and the more expensive Ioniq 5 N. Its price reflects the lightweight chassis, performance tuning and premium interior – a value proposition that many reviewers felt outshone rivals like the Kia Niro EV and the VW ID.3 hot‑hatch concepts.
FAQ
- What is the real‑world range of the Alpine A290? Expect around 180‑200 miles on a typical mixed‑city/road drive, despite the 234‑mile WLTP claim.
- Is the Alpine A290 worth buying over a traditional hot hatch? Yes, if you want genuine electric performance, a low centre of gravity and a practical hatchback without sacrificing excitement.
- How fast can the A290 charge? Using a 100 kW DC fast charger, it goes from 15 % to 80 % in roughly 30 minutes.
Do you think the Alpine A290 sets a new standard for fun EVs? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Source: Read Official News