Renault’s high-performance division, Alpine, is stepping into the electric era with its newest creation, the A390. As electric mobility continues to reshape the automotive landscape, the A390 marks a bold move for Alpine, bringing a new dynamic to the world of electric crossovers. Spied testing on public roads ahead of its expected debut, the A390 is poised to rival the likes of Porsche’s electric Macan in the burgeoning electric SUV market.
Renault’s performance arm, Alpine, is well-known for its sporty and lightweight vehicles, most notably the iconic A110. However, the A390 represents something entirely new: Alpine’s first-ever SUV and a significant leap into the all-electric future. This electric crossover is expected to blend the brand’s racing pedigree with the practicality and versatility of an SUV. Alpine’s move toward electric vehicles (EVs) is part of a larger trend within the industry, and the A390 is set to become a critical model in this transformation.
Spied during road testing in Europe, the A390 is generating buzz ahead of its anticipated unveiling at the Paris Motor Show, where a concept version is expected to make its debut. This will give the world its first detailed glimpse of Alpine’s ambitious attempt to create a high-performance electric SUV that can compete with the best in the market.
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The A390: A Step into the Crossover Segment
The A390 will be Alpine’s second electric vehicle following the release of the A290 hot hatch. While the A290 is based on the compact Renault 5, the A390 is an entirely new vehicle, designed from the ground up to tackle the competitive electric crossover market. Its fastback body style and sleek design suggest it will offer a blend of sportiness and practicality, a combination that has become increasingly popular among modern car buyers.
One of the key aspects of the A390 is its positioning in the market. It will enter the competitive C-segment, which is Europe’s designation for mid-sized SUVs. This puts the A390 in direct competition with several electric heavyweights, including the Porsche Macan EV. To succeed in this space, the A390 will need to offer not only impressive performance but also competitive range, cutting-edge technology, and a design that can stand out in a crowded market.
Power and Performance: What to Expect
The Alpine A390 is expected to deliver some serious power. Reports suggest that the top-spec version will feature a tri-motor setup, with two electric motors on the rear axle and one on the front. This all-wheel-drive configuration will likely provide up to 450 kW (around 600 horsepower), positioning it as a high-performance rival to the Porsche Macan EV, which is expected to offer around 470 kW in its most powerful variant.
For those looking for a less extreme version, Alpine will reportedly offer lower-spec models of the A390, delivering around 300 kW (400 horsepower). This range of options will allow the A390 to cater to a wide range of customers, from those seeking everyday practicality to enthusiasts looking for exhilarating performance.
In terms of range, the A390 is expected to offer up to 600 kilometers on a single charge, depending on the version. This will put it in direct competition with the Porsche Macan EV, which promises a range of up to 654 kilometers in its most efficient variant. The A390 will need to match or exceed these figures to remain competitive in a market where range anxiety is still a concern for many buyers.
Built on the CMF-EV Platform
The A390 will be built on the CMF-EV platform, the same architecture that underpins the Nissan Ariya, another electric SUV. This platform has been designed specifically for electric vehicles, offering the flexibility to accommodate various powertrain configurations and battery sizes. By using this platform, Alpine can take advantage of Renault-Nissan’s expertise in electric vehicle development while focusing on the performance aspects that make Alpine a standout brand.
The CMF-EV platform is known for its efficiency and flexibility, allowing manufacturers to optimize vehicle dimensions, battery placement, and weight distribution. For the A390, this means Alpine can create a vehicle that not only performs well but also offers a spacious interior, competitive range, and cutting-edge technology. The platform’s modularity will also allow Alpine to offer different versions of the A390 with varying power outputs and range capabilities.
Design: A Blend of Sportiness and Sophistication
Although heavily camouflaged during its road tests, the A390’s design hints at a stylish and aerodynamic crossover. The fastback silhouette, a common trend among high-performance SUVs, suggests that Alpine is aiming for a sleek yet muscular appearance. The front end features a split headlight design, which has become a popular choice among automakers for giving vehicles a futuristic and aggressive look. At the rear, a thin, full-width light bar stretches across the tailgate, adding to the modern aesthetic.
One of the more notable design features is the flush door handles at the front, with rear door handles integrated into the C-pillars. This design not only enhances the A390’s sleek look but also improves aerodynamics, contributing to the vehicle’s efficiency. The overall design appears to be a careful balance between performance-oriented styling and the practicality expected from a modern SUV.
Inside, the A390 is expected to offer a high-tech and luxurious cabin, packed with the latest infotainment and connectivity features. Given Alpine’s performance-oriented DNA, it’s likely that the interior will also have a sporty feel, with materials like Alcantara and carbon fiber used to enhance the premium atmosphere.
Competing with the Porsche Macan EV
The A390’s biggest competitor in the electric SUV space is likely to be the Porsche Macan EV. Porsche has long been a dominant player in the luxury SUV market, and the electric Macan is expected to carry that legacy into the electric era. Alpine will need to bring its A-game if it hopes to compete with Porsche, a brand that is synonymous with performance and luxury.
In terms of performance, the A390’s projected power figures put it in a strong position against the Macan EV. The tri-motor setup, with 450 kW in the top-spec model, matches closely with the Macan’s most powerful variant. However, the A390 will also need to deliver a competitive range, as electric vehicle buyers are increasingly prioritizing range alongside performance. With a claimed range of 600 kilometers, the A390 is not far behind the Macan’s 654 kilometers, though real-world figures will ultimately determine which vehicle offers the better range.
Pricing will also play a significant role in determining how well the A390 can compete with the Macan. While the Macan EV is likely to be priced at the higher end of the market, Alpine could potentially undercut Porsche with a more competitive price tag, attracting buyers who want performance without the premium price associated with luxury brands like Porsche.
