Exploring the Alpine A290: A Blend of Old-School Enthusiasm and New-Tech Innovation
Recently, I had the opportunity to engage in a fascinating discussion with Autocar’s road testers regarding the Alpine A290, the electrifying rendition of the new Renault 5 EV. What set this conversation apart was the focus on traditional driving dynamics rather than mundane technical details.
We delved into topics such as lift-off oversteer, comparing it to the spirited nature of older Renaultsport hot hatches while acknowledging its superiority over most competitors. The debate also touched upon the potential benefits of incorporating an additional steering knuckle on its MacPherson struts to mitigate torque steer, a feature that the A290 manages to tackle admirably.
One intriguing aspect that caught our attention was Alpine’s decision to retain front-wheel drive for the A290 instead of succumbing to the allure of rear-wheel drive by adding an extra motor at the rear. While the feasibility of such a setup was acknowledged by Alpine, the brand emphasized its commitment to lightweight vehicles, a philosophy that continues to shape their design ethos.
Despite its weight of nearly 1500kg, the A290 remains relatively light compared to other modern EVs, thanks to Alpine’s meticulous attention to control weights and suspension tuning. Opting for the same 52kWh battery as the standard Renault 5 and sticking to front-wheel drive not only reflects a budget-conscious approach but also enhances the car’s dynamic prowess.
As Illya Verpraet aptly pointed out, in the realm of EVs offering a choice between two- or four-wheel drive, the 2WD variant often delivers a more engaging driving experience. This sentiment resonates with my own observations of models like the Porsche Taycan and Volvo EX30, where the rear-driven configurations exhibit superior agility and steering precision.
What truly sets the A290 apart is its ability to captivate enthusiasts with a blend of cutting-edge technology and a nostalgic charm reminiscent of classic automotive conversations. This new-age vehicle exudes an old-school feel that resonates with those who appreciate the art of driving.
