The hot hatch – a class of car celebrated for its blend of affordability, practicality, and driving excitement – seemed to be fading into automotive history. Decades of increasingly stringent safety standards and rising vehicle weights threatened to extinguish the spirit of nimble, engaging performance that defined icons like the Renault 5 GT Turbo and Clio Williams. But the Alpine A290 has arrived to prove that the hot hatch isn’t just alive, it’s evolving.
The A290 doesn’t attempt to redefine performance with absurd horsepower numbers; instead, it focuses on delivering a thrilling, usable experience. This is a vital shift: modern cars often prioritize raw speed over driver enjoyment, making them intimidating and impractical for daily use. The A290’s 180-220 hp output, with the top-spec GTS + achieving 0-62 mph in 6.4 seconds, hits the sweet spot between fun and accessibility.
The Return to Simplicity
One key to the A290’s success is its commitment to front-wheel drive. While many performance cars now default to all-wheel drive for maximum grip, Alpine deliberately chose a configuration that echoes the classic hot hatches of the past. This isn’t about nostalgia; it’s about balance. FWD allows for a more engaging driving experience, particularly in corners, where subtle throttle adjustments can induce controlled oversteer.
The car’s electric powertrain amplifies this feeling. Instant torque makes every acceleration feel urgent, yet Alpine has carefully calibrated the throttle response to avoid overwhelming the driver. Unlike some high-performance EVs, the A290 doesn’t require constant attention to avoid wheelspin or unpredictable power delivery.
Seamless Integration of Technology
The A290’s brake-by-wire system is another standout feature. It seamlessly blends regenerative braking with conventional discs, creating a natural, intuitive feel. Testers from Autocar noted that the transition between regen and friction braking is so smooth that drivers won’t even notice it. This eliminates the jerky, unpredictable behavior that plagues some electric vehicles, allowing drivers to confidently exploit the car’s performance without hesitation.
The A290 doesn’t just deliver power; it delivers control. This is what separates a truly great hot hatch from a merely fast car.
Why This Matters
The Alpine A290’s revival of the hot hatch formula is significant because it demonstrates that electric powertrains don’t have to sacrifice fun for efficiency. For years, automotive enthusiasts feared that the transition to EVs would mean the end of lightweight, driver-focused cars. The A290 proves that this isn’t the case: electric power can enhance the hot hatch experience, making it more responsive, engaging, and accessible than ever before. The A290 is not just a car; it’s a statement about the future of performance driving.
