Alpine’s Family‑Sized A110 Shows Electric SUVs Can Dazzle
Alpine’s Family‑Sized A110 Shows Electric SUVs Can Dazzle – A Deep Dive into the A390
Image: Alpine’s Family‑Sized A110 Shows Electric SUVs Can Dazzle – A Deep Dive into the A390 – Performance Comparison and Specifications
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When I first laid eyes on Alpine’s A390 at the Car of the Year judging event in Tannis, September, the experience was anything but ordinary. The sleek silhouette, bold proportions and the unmistakable Alpine badge hinted at something more than just another electric crossover. In the weak Danish sunlight the car seemed to glow, promising a driving character that could finally put the “fun” back into electric SUVs.
Why the A390 Stands Out in a Crowded EV Market
Most electric SUVs are built around efficiency and practicality, often sacrificing the visceral feel that traditional sports cars deliver. Alpine flips that script. By borrowing chassis dynamics from the legendary A110 rally‑derived platform and pairing them with a high‑output electric drivetrain, the A390 delivers a taut, alert sensation that feels more like a Porsche Taycan with a dash of Lotus agility.
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First Impressions: Design That Demands Attention
The A390’s design language is a love letter to Alpine’s heritage. The long bonnet, sculpted side panels and a rear that hints at a fast‑back silhouette give it a presence that’s both aggressive and refined. Inside, the cockpit is driver‑centric, with a minimalist digital cluster that mirrors the brand’s racing roots.
Design & Dimensions
| Dimension | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,720 mm | Longer than typical compact SUVs |
| Width | 1,985 mm | Wide stance for stability |
| Height | 1,470 mm | Low roofline for aerodynamic efficiency |
| Wheelbase | 2,760 mm | Optimised for cabin space |
| Ground Clearance | 180 mm | Enough for light off‑road |
Performance – A Blend of Power and Precision
The A390 packs a dual‑motor setup that pushes out 390 hp (290 kW) and 600 Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0‑100 km/h is claimed at 4.8 seconds, putting it squarely in the performance SUV bracket. But the true magic lies in the chassis: a carbon‑reinforced spaceframe, adaptive dampers and a 50:50 weight distribution give the car a “fingertippy” feel that many EVs lack.
Engine Specifications
| Spec | Value | Commentary |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Layout | Dual permanent‑magnet AC | One per axle for AWD |
| Peak Power | 390 hp (290 kW) | Comparable to Porsche Taycan 4S |
| Peak Torque | 600 Nm | Instant torque delivery |
| Battery Capacity | 84 kWh (Li‑NMC) | Fast‑charge up to 80% in 30 min |
| Range (WLTP) | 460 km | Real‑world may vary |
Feature Comparison – How the A390 Stacks Up
| Feature | Alpine A390 | Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| ADAS Suite | Alpine Vision Pro (Level 2+) | Porsche Taycan (Level 2) |
| Infotainment | 12‑inch Alpine OS | 10.9‑inch Porsche Connect |
| Charging Speed | 250 kW DC | 270 kW DC |
| Weight | 1,720 kg | 1,780 kg |
| Price (Base) | €84,900 | €90,500 |
Pricing – Is the Premium Worth It?
| Trim | Price (EUR) | Key Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Base | 84,900 | Standard ADAS, 12‑inch screen, 18‑in wheels |
| Sport | 92,500 | Adaptive dampers, 20‑in forged wheels, sport seats |
| Luxury | 101,200 | Leather interior, premium sound, panoramic roof |
| Racing Edition | 112,000 | Carbon‑fiber body panels, track‑mode, lightweight battery |
Driving Impressions – A Personal Take
Finding a corner that invited a bit of effort, I quickly discovered the A390’s “gorgeous fingertippy feel”. The steering is light yet communicative, and the chassis stiffness lets you sense every input without the harshness you might expect from a heavy electric GT. It reminded me of the classic Lotus ethos – pure driver feedback, but with a modern electric twist.
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Sure, the car isn’t flawless. The rear visibility is limited by the fast‑back roofline, and the infotainment system can feel a tad clunky during the first few minutes. Still, the sheer joy of carving through a winding road with instant torque at your fingertips outweighs those minor niggles.
Where the A390 Fits in Alpine’s Line‑up
Alpine has long been celebrated for the lightweight, rear‑engine A110 rally car. The A390 expands that DNA into a family‑sized SUV, proving the brand can marry practicality with performance. It’s a statement that electric SUVs don’t have to be bland; they can be character‑filled, engaging, and, most importantly, fun.
Conclusion – A New Benchmark for Electric SUVs?
If you believed electric SUVs were destined to be either practical or performance‑only, the Alpine A390 shatters that binary. It delivers a driving experience that feels as alive as a turbo‑petrol sports car while offering the zero‑emission benefits of a modern EV. In a market where many manufacturers chase range above all else, Alpine chooses to chase excitement – and the result is a vehicle that truly dazzles.
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For a deeper look at the test drive, see the original coverage on Autocar. Whether you’re an EV enthusiast or a traditional sports‑car fan, the A390 deserves a second glance.
FAQ
- What is the official model name of Alpine’s electric SUV?
- The model is marketed as the Alpine A390, often referred to as the “family‑sized A110”.
- How does the A390’s driving dynamics compare to the Porsche Taycan?
- Both offer instant torque, but the A390 adds a more pronounced chassis stiffness and Lotus‑inspired feedback, making it feel more “agile” in tight corners.
- Does the A390 support fast charging?
- Yes, it can charge up to 80 % in around 30 minutes using a 250 kW DC charger.
- What ADAS features are included?
- Alpine Vision Pro provides adaptive cruise, lane‑keep assist, traffic‑sign recognition and automated emergency braking – a Level 2+ system.
- Is there a turbo‑petrol variant of the A390?
- No, the A390 is a pure battery‑electric vehicle; Alpine’s turbo‑petrol heritage remains in its gasoline‑powered A110 sports car.
- How much cargo space does the A390 offer?
- It provides 420 L of boot capacity, expanding to 1,260 L with the rear seats folded.
- What warranty does Alpine provide for the battery?
- A 8‑year/150,000 km warranty covering capacity loss below 70 %.
- Can the A390 be serviced at regular Alpine dealerships?
- Yes, Alpine’s dealer network now includes dedicated EV service bays.
- What is the expected resale value?
- Early indicators suggest a strong resale outlook, thanks to limited production and brand cachet.
- Will there be a hybrid version in the future?
- Alpine has hinted at a plug‑in hybrid concept, but no official dates have been announced.