Alpine A390 First Drive Impressions
Alpine’s ambitious expansion continues with the A390, a model tasked with a seemingly impossible mission. It must deliver the practicality of a five-seat family SUV while retaining the agile, thrilling soul of a classic sports coupe. This electric newcomer steps into a fiercely competitive arena, aiming to challenge established benchmarks. Can one vehicle truly master two distinct disciplines?
Blending Performance with Practicality
The A390’s design philosophy is immediately apparent. It features a lower, more aggressive stance than typical SUVs, with pronounced wheel arches and Alpine’s signature lighting signatures. The interior prioritizes the driver’s environment with a sport-focused cockpit, yet does not compromise on rear passenger space or cargo volume. This careful balancing act is the A390’s core proposition, offering daily usability without diluting the brand’s performance DNA.
Electric Powertrain and Driving Dynamics
Equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, the A390 delivers instant electric torque and formidable power. Early driving impressions highlight a chassis tuned for engagement, with precise steering and a suspension that manages to curb body roll effectively. The driving experience is notably more connected and responsive than many electric SUVs, suggesting Alpine’s engineers prioritized dynamic feel alongside outright acceleration. Regenerative braking is strong and configurable, allowing for one-pedal driving in urban environments.
A New Contender in the EV Arena
The A390 enters a market dominated by vehicles like the Tesla Model Y Performance. Its potential advantage lies in its dedicated sports car heritage, offering a distinct character for drivers seeking excitement beyond straight-line speed. The cabin’s material quality and driver-centric layout also present a compelling alternative to the minimalist tech-lounge approach of some rivals. The ultimate question remains whether its blend of attributes will resonate strongly enough to carve out a significant niche.