The Alpine A390 marks a bold step for the French sports car brand into the electric SUV segment. Known for the featherlight A110, Alpine now faces a core challenge: how to make a large all-electric SUV feel agile. True lightness is impossible with a heavy battery pack, so the Alpine A390 takes a clever alternative path. Instead of replicating the A110’s weight, it mimics its dynamic spirit.
To begin with, Alpine focused on size. The Alpine A390 stands 9 cm lower than a Porsche Macan and is also 10 cm shorter in length. This compact footprint reduces mass and improves handling. At 2,199 kg, it weighs significantly less than the electric Macan. That lower weight translates directly into sharper responses on the road.
On the move, the Alpine A390 delivers a firm but comfortable ride. Its striking 21-inch wheels contribute to this character. True to Alpine tradition, the steering is light yet precise. As a result, it invites drivers to push harder through corners than a typical SUV would allow. There is some body roll, and the elevated seating reminds you this isn’t a low-slung coupe. Nevertheless, it feels genuinely sporty across city streets, highways, and winding backroads.
Power delivery is smooth, not brutal. We tested the GT version with 400 hp. Its mass softens acceleration slightly, yet it still hits 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. The more powerful GTS variant achieves this in just 3.9 seconds. While not neck-snapping, the performance feels balanced and engaging—exactly what purists expect from Alpine.
A key technical highlight is its drivetrain. The Alpine A390 uses three electric motors—one up front and two at the rear—paired with an 89 kWh, 400-volt battery. This setup enables advanced torque vectoring. By adjusting power to each rear wheel independently, the system enhances cornering agility and traction. Combined with communicative steering, it builds driver confidence on twisty routes.
Drivers can fine-tune the experience with five modes. Like the A290, it features a red “boost” button on the steering wheel for instant max power during overtakes. With a claimed range of 557 km, it eases range anxiety for most everyday journeys.
Inside, the cabin echoes other Alpine models. You’ll find the signature trio of gear-selector buttons and a flat-bottomed steering wheel. Build quality is solid, and materials match its starting price of €67,500. The driving position is excellent. However, rear seat space is tight—a clear trade-off for its sporty focus over family practicality.
Visually, our test car wore classic Alpine blue. Optional matching accents on the wheel and alloys reinforce its identity. French tricolore badges proudly signal its origin, setting it apart from German or Korean rivals.
In summary, the Alpine A390 succeeds as a driver’s electric SUV. It may lack ultimate rear room, but it offers style, a quality interior, and genuine driving pleasure at any speed. Unlike the two-seater A110, it works as a daily driver. Altogether, the Alpine A390 stands out as something special—a rare blend of heritage, performance, and modern electric capability.
