Alpine A390: A Racing Soul in a Family-Friendly Electric SUV

By Himanshu Kumar

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Alpine A390: A Racing Soul in a Family-Friendly Electric SUV

When you think of Alpine, the French marque synonymous with lightweight sports cars and Formula One pedigree, the image of a family SUV doesn’t immediately spring to mind. Yet, with the Alpine A390, the brand has reimagined what a sporty electric crossover can be. This isn’t Alpine chasing mainstream volume or trying to out-Tesla Tesla—it’s Alpine’s unique interpretation of a family-friendly EV infused with racing DNA.

⚡ Electrifying Performance

At the heart of the A390 lies a tri-motor all-wheel-drive system: one wound-rotor synchronous motor at the front and two permanent magnet synchronous motors at the rear. Together, they deliver up to 470 horsepower and 824 Nm of torque, catapulting the SUV from 0–62 mph in just 3.9 seconds.

Two trims are offered:

  • A390 GT – 400 hp, 555 km (345 miles) range, 150 kW DC charging.
  • A390 GTS – 470 hp, 515 km (320 miles) range, 190 kW DC charging.

With an 89 kWh battery, rapid charging capability, and Alpine’s Active Torque Vectoring, the A390 promises thrilling cornering precision while remaining practical for everyday use.

🏎️ Racing Pedigree Meets Everyday Utility

Alpine describes the A390 as a “racing car in a suit”. That’s not just marketing hype. The SUV’s chassis is tuned with Alpine’s hallmark lightness and agility, honed by engineers who also work on the brand’s Formula One program.

Despite its performance credentials, the A390 is a five-seat fastback SUV, designed to accommodate families. At 4.6 meters long and 1.88 meters wide, it offers ample cabin space while maintaining sleek proportions.

🎨 Design and Craftsmanship

The A390’s exterior is unmistakably Alpine: elegant curves, muscular stance, and signature Bleu Alpine color. Inside, partnerships with Michelin, Devialet, and Sabelt ensure bespoke technical solutions—from advanced tires to premium audio and lightweight seating.

The cabin balances sportiness with comfort. Expect minimalist French flair, high-quality materials, and a driver-focused cockpit. Yet, rear passengers may find space slightly compromised compared to rivals, a trade-off for the car’s coupe-like silhouette.

🌍 Sustainability and Innovation

The A390 isn’t just about speed—it’s Alpine’s statement on the future of mobility. By committing to electrification, Alpine aligns with Renault Group’s broader sustainability goals. The SUV demonstrates that eco-conscious driving doesn’t mean sacrificing excitement.

Its efficiency is bolstered by regenerative braking and intelligent energy management, ensuring that even spirited drives don’t drain the battery excessively.

📊 Comparison Table

FeatureAlpine A390 GTAlpine A390 GTS
Power Output400 hp470 hp
Battery Capacity89 kWh89 kWh
Range (WLTP)555 km (345 mi)515 km (320 mi)
0–62 mph~4.5 s3.9 s
DC Charging Speed150 kW190 kW
Drive LayoutTri-motor AWDTri-motor AWD

🚗 Who Is It For?

The Alpine A390 is aimed at drivers who crave sports car thrills without sacrificing practicality. It’s perfect for enthusiasts who want an EV that feels alive, not just efficient. Families who value design and performance over maximum rear-seat comfort will find it appealing.

It’s not the cheapest or most spacious option, but it’s arguably the most characterful. In a market crowded with sensible electric SUVs, the A390 stands out as a passion-driven alternative.

⚠️ Challenges and Trade-Offs

  • Rear passenger comfort: The sloping roofline compromises headroom.
  • Weight: At over 2,100 kg, it’s heavier than Alpine’s sports cars, though still agile for its class.
  • Price positioning: Alpine hasn’t revealed exact pricing yet, but expect it to sit above mainstream EV SUVs, competing with premium offerings from Tesla, Porsche, and BMW.

🏁 Final Thoughts

The Alpine A390 is more than just another electric SUV—it’s a statement of intent. By blending Formula One engineering, French craftsmanship, and family practicality, Alpine has created a car that challenges conventions.

For those who believe electric cars should be exciting, the A390 delivers. It’s proof that the future of driving can be both sustainable and exhilarating.

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