Introducing the Alpine A390: A New Era of Electric Performance SUVs
The automotive world welcomes an exciting new contender as Alpine unveils the A390, a bold and innovative electric SUV that challenges conventions and sets new standards for sporty electrified driving. Boasting a striking fastback design, up to 470 horsepower, and an impressive range of 555 kilometers (345 miles), the Alpine A390 is poised to make a significant impact on the premium electric SUV market.
A Breakthrough for Alpine: Expanding Beyond Tradition
Alpine, Renault’s renowned performance sub-brand, has been riding a wave of sales success—especially after the 2024 launch of its first electric car, the A290 hot hatchback, propelling record sales for four consecutive years. This momentum has encouraged Alpine to broaden its lineup, resulting in the debut of the A390—its first foray into the SUV segment. Yet, Alpine insists on calling this vehicle a "sport fastback," thanks to its coupe-inspired profile and sloping roofline, which blend everyday utility with unmistakable Alpine sportiness.
Exterior Design: Aggression Meets Elegance
Unveiled as a production-ready model closely inspired by last year’s A390_β concept, the Alpine A390 sits on Renault’s AmpR Medium platform, already proven in vehicles like the Megane E-Tech, Scenic E-Tech, and Nissan Ariya. However, Alpine has elevated the platform with a focus on dynamic performance and exhilarating driving experience—outshining even the Nissan Ariya Nismo in terms of power and visual appeal.
Distinctive design elements set the A390 apart: boldly sculpted bodywork, hidden rear door handles integrated into the C-pillar for a coupe-like silhouette, and standard 20-inch alloy wheels (with optional 21-inch wheels for an even more commanding presence). Michelin has partnered to develop exclusive summer and all-season tires tailored for optimal grip and sporting performance.
Up front, triangular cut-outs in the bumper, each housing a set of 12 LED lamps, lend the A390 a futuristic face. Slim headlamps reflect the design ethos of the concept, while massive air intakes, a subtle rear spoiler, and a central aerodynamic blade on the hood all reflect Alpine's obsession with detail. The French flag adorning the rear pillar is a nod to the vehicle’s assembly at the Dieppe plant in northern France.
Interior Experience: Technology Meets Comfort
Step inside the Alpine A390 and you’re greeted by a cockpit that, while sharing some Renault DNA, raises the bar for sporty refinement. The cabin features a modern layout with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster alongside a vertical 12-inch central touchscreen. Unlike some rivals who opt for an all-touch interface, Alpine retains physical buttons beneath the display, ensuring intuitive and accessible controls.
High-end versions come equipped with deeply bolstered sports seats, complete with massage, heating, and electric adjustment functions for premium comfort. The 13-speaker premium audio system, 360-degree camera setup, and an infotainment suite running on Android Automotive—complete with real-time vehicle telemetry—add a high-tech touch. This motorsports-derived telemetry system gives drivers instant feedback on vehicle performance, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Powertrain & Performance: Electrified Thrills
Both the A390 GT and the more potent GTS variants are powered by a cutting-edge tri-motor electric drivetrain, utilizing one motor up front and two at the rear for advanced torque vectoring and all-wheel-drive capabilities.
- A390 GT: Delivers 400 hp and 650 Nm of torque, hitting 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 4.8 seconds, with a top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph).
- A390 GTS: Unlocks even more power with 470 hp and 808 Nm of torque, rocketing from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.9 seconds, and a top speed of 220 km/h (137 mph).
Both models draw energy from a robust 89 kWh battery. With the standard 20-inch wheels, the A390 achieves a WLTP-rated range of up to 555 km (345 miles); selecting the 21-inch wheels slightly reduces the range to 520 km (323 miles). Thanks to rapid 190 kW DC fast-charging, you can charge from 15% to 80% in just 25 minutes—adding enough energy for two hours of highway driving in under 20 minutes, according to Alpine.
Dimensions, Space, and Practicality
The A390 ranks as the largest vehicle Alpine has ever produced. Its dimensions are 4,615 mm in length, 1,885 mm in width, and 1,532 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,708 mm. At 2,121 kg (in its lightest configuration), it is nearly twice as heavy as Alpine’s featherweight A110 R coupe, but a nearly perfect 49:51 front-to-rear weight distribution carefully maintains agile handling. Luggage capacity of 532 liters makes this the most practical Alpine to date, ideal for families and driving enthusiasts alike.
Market Positioning and Future Outlook
Set to hit the European market in 2026, the Alpine A390 promises to shake up the electric crossover and SUV landscape—though it won’t initially reach North America. However, Alpine has confirmed plans for larger future models designed specifically for the US market later this decade.
By merging Alpine’s storied sporting heritage with the latest EV technology, the A390 is destined to captivate both purists and progressive car buyers looking for a high-performance electric SUV that doesn’t compromise on style, substance, or everyday usability.
How the Alpine A390 Stands Out Against Rivals
The Alpine A390 positions itself apart from segment competitors with its unique tri-motor architecture, aggressive styling, and sharp focus on driver engagement. While rivals such as the Tesla Model Y Performance or Ford Mustang Mach-E GT offer strong competition with their own electric prowess, Alpine’s exceptional chassis tuning, advanced telemetry integration, and dedication to the brand’s French performance legacy allow the A390 to carve a distinct niche in the high-performance EV category.
If you’re searching for an electric SUV that offers both practicality and an authentic, thrilling driving experience, the Alpine A390 deserves a spot at the top of your shortlist.
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