Alpine’s Journey: From A110 to A390

Alpine returned to the automotive world in 2017 with the acclaimed A110, a modern take on its classic namesake. Since then, they’ve taken a slightly different approach to the brand, evolving it to absorb Renaultsport and the Formula 1 team. The A290 was their next model, a charming electric hot hatch, introducing a new line of vehicles from Alpine.

While it may not be common knowledge, in Alpine vocabulary, the presence of "90" designates a car with broader aspirations than an all-out sports car. Any Alpine will still put the driver first, but these models, like the A290 and A390, are designed to balance performance with practicality. They have room for four and cater to the family and everyday usability.

The A390 Beta is Alpine's next everyday car. The term SUV doesn’t appear in the press material, but one quick look at the design makes it clear that this is Alpine’s entry into the SUV ‘coupe’ sector. From launch, the A390 will be electric only, signalling the brand's ambition to convert fully to electric propulsion, with the next-generation A110 also set to become electric.

Cautionary Lessons: Learning from Lotus’s EV Move

Alpine’s entry into the electric SUV world comes at a time when another storied performance brand, Lotus, has already taken the plunge. With the Lotus Eletre, Lotus has shifted from its lightweight sports car ethos to a much heavier electric SUV. While it’s early days for the Eletre, concerns have been raised about whether the brand’s "simplify and add lightness" mantra can survive in the EV sector.

Alpine, on paper, seems to be taking its lightweight heritage much more seriously. By focusing on technologies like its Active Torque Vectoring system, Alpine appears committed to delivering the nimble, lightweight feel that its customers expect. This cautious approach might just be what sets the A390 apart.

From Concept to Reality: A Sneak Peek at the Production Model

We can expect to see the production version of the A390 in 2025. However, as with most concept cars, not all the features shown to get us excited will make it to the final version. One feature I'll be sad to see go, according to Autocar, is the rear-hinged doors, which add that extra touch of drama for your passengers.

Another feature that won’t be making it to the production car - and for this, I’m actually thankful - is the F1-inspired interior, complete with an adaptive driving position that moves the foot pedals and position of the seat at the touch of a button to mimic an F1 car. On an SUV, this style of interior feels misplaced, a stretch too far trying to make the car something it’s not.

Electric Powertrain and Unique Features

Now that we’ve set some expectations for the production car, it’s time to explore how Alpine has decided to power the A390 Beta. They’ve chosen to utilise three electric motors - one at the front and two at the rear. These work with a non-permanent all-wheel-drive system, and the motors are monitored by an Active Torque Vectoring system, which is a claimed world first in this segment. This system reduces inertia and is designed to give the A390 the same lightweight, agile feel as the A110, despite the heavier SUV body.

Across the exterior and interior of the A390 Beta, you won’t find a shortage of triangles. These design elements cover the lower bumper area and make up the front and rear light units. There’s still room for some last-minute changes, as, according to Alpine, the A390 Beta is 85 percent production-ready, with the front end of the car being pretty much what we can expect on the final version.

The Competition: Can the A390 match its rivals from Seoul and Stuttgart?

Looking ahead, the A390’s biggest test will likely come in the form of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and Porsche Macan. It remains to be seen if Alpine will push the A390 towards the king of the sector, the Macan, or the new kid on the block, the Ioniq 5 N.  

The Hyundai has already set a high bar in the performance E-SUV segment. The Ioniq 5 N has been lauded for its sharp handling, impressive power delivery, and driver engagement, making it the EV to beat. The Macan EV meanwhile, has already been praised for maintaining its Porsche characteristics in a completely new package. It’s clear the A390 has its work cut out. 

If Alpine wants to compete in this space, the A390 will need to match - or exceed - the Hyundai’s ability to deliver both everyday usability and thrilling performance. Alpine’s focus on maintaining a lightweight feel through its innovative torque vectoring system might give it an edge over other coupe crossovers, but here’s the rub - the Ioniq 5 N already features its own torque vectoring system.

What’s Next: Anticipating the A390’s Production Release

So far, Alpine has kept quiet about performance and battery statistics for the production car. With the production version set to be fully revealed in 2025, there’s plenty of room for Alpine to refine its vision of the A390. While it may not hit the same niche as the A110, this new chapter in Alpine’s story could mark a turning point for the brand - one where everyday practicality meets the legacy of lightweight performance. I’m eager to see whether it can carve out the same place in my heart as the A290 has.