Alpine A390: An electric thunderbolt that takes the family along for the ride

Alpine A390: An electric thunderbolt that takes the family along for the ride

31 May 2025

 

Let’s talk about a car that looks like it rolled straight out of a sci-fi blockbuster, but with a French flair and a hefty dose of driving thrills. The Alpine A390 isn’t some run-of-the-mill electric SUV dozing off in traffic. No, this is a sporty fastback that puts the Porsche Macan Electric to shame while comfortably carting the whole family. This is Alpine’s latest weapon, and trust me, it’s an absolute cannon!

The A390 is a lovechild between a sleek sedan and a rugged SUV. At 4.62 meters long, with a sloping roofline and a rear window that resembles a Formula 1 driver’s helmet, it oozes pure dynamism. The French call it a “sport fastback,” and honestly, that sounds way more exciting than “crossover.” The design is a feast for the eyes: sharp lines, glowing triangles up front (dubbed “Cosmic Dust,” how cool is that?), and wheels up to 21 inches with a snowflake pattern that demands attention. In Alpine Vision Blue or matte Thunder Grey, this thing is a rolling work of art.

But let’s get to the real fun: what’s under the hood? Or rather, under the floor, because this beast is fully electric. Three electric motors—one in the front, two in the rear—deliver all-wheel drive and active torque distribution that turns cornering into a ballet. The base version, the GT, churns out 400 hp and 650 Nm, good for a 0-100 km/h sprint in 4.8 seconds. But the GTS? That one throws down 470 hp and a monstrous 808 Nm, rocketing you to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and hitting a top speed of 220 km/h. That’s not a family car; it’s a rocket with car seats!

The interior is a blend of racecar cockpit and luxury lounge. Two screens in an L-shape, sporty bucket seats (with a massage function in the GTS, no less), and a Devialet audio system that pampers your eardrums. Alpine even threw in a “My Safety” button to tweak all the driver assistance systems in one go. From adaptive cruise control that cleverly hugs the side of the lane to a Track mode for those itching to hit the circuit, this car’s got it all. With five driving modes, including a One Pedal mode for smooth city driving, it’s as versatile as a Swiss army knife.

Now, you might be thinking, “Nice, all that power, but how far will it take me?” No worries, Alpine’s got that covered. The 89 kWh battery offers a range of 555 km for the GT and 520 km for the GTS. Fast charging hits up to 190 kW, and for those taking it easy, there’s AC charging at 11 kW or an optional 22 kW. Not bad for a 2,121 kg car that handles like it’s light as a feather, thanks to a 49:51 weight distribution and Michelin tires custom-made for this beast.

Let’s be real: the A390 shares its AmpR Medium platform with the Renault Scénic E-Tech, but don’t you dare call it a fancied-up Scénic. This is a Scénic that’s hit the gym, pumped iron, and taken a Formula 1 masterclass. With 365 mm brake discs, six pistons, and a suspension with aluminum wishbones, this car devours corners rather than just navigating them. Alpine claims it drives like their legendary A110 sports car, but with room for five and a 523-liter boot. That’s space for the stroller, the groceries, and your ego.

Is there a catch? Maybe. The price isn’t official yet, but whispers suggest it’ll land between €65,000 and €76,000. For that money, you get a lot of car, but you’ll need to embrace the electric future. And yes, it’s quiet—no roaring V8 here—but Alpine tries to make up for it with simulated engine sounds, including one inspired by the A110. Does it work? We’ll find out when we get behind the wheel.

The A390 proves Alpine isn’t a one-hit wonder. This is a brand that takes its sporty roots seriously while towing the family along. It’s not a replacement for the A110 but a complement: practical, versatile, and bloody fast. Orders start at the end of 2025, and if you’re quick, you might snag the Première edition. This is Alpine’s future, and it looks damn tasty.