Specific to the A290 is the Alpine Telemetrics system; this sub menu allows the driver to access live telemetry including power application, G-force readings, lap times and brake temperatures, plus built-in analytics and tips to help drivers improve their technique.
The 10.1-inch main touchscreen features built-in Google Maps and other Google services without needing to connect to your phone – although if you do, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are both wireless. GT Premium and GTS models also have an upgraded stereo system that performs well above the expected level for a car of this size and price.
“Alpine has put its own touch on the Renault layout, with dark blue textured leather-effect on the dash, doors and seats. While another electric sporty hatch, the Abarth 500e, has an undeniable sense of occasion, it can’t match the Alpine’s quality of finish.” – Alex Ingram, chief reviewer
Limited space for passengers in the second row allows a well-sized boot
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Pros |
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| Cons |
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The Alpine A290 suffers from the same limited practicality as the Renault 5 it’s based on, with a limited amount of space for rear-seat passengers – especially regarding legroom – and because it’s front-wheel drive there’s no frunk (meaning additional storage under the bonnet). There are three sets of Isofix mounting points for child seats (one up front, and two in the back) and we like the three-button gear selector, which was lifted straight from Alpine’s A110 sports car.
Dimensions and size
The Alpine A290 measures 3,990mm long, 1,820mm wide and 1,520mm tall, meaning it’s slightly longer and wider than the Renault 5, and larger in every proportion than the MINI JCW Electric.
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 3,990mm |
| Width | 1,820mm |
| Height | 1,520mm |
| Number of seats | Five |
| Boot space | 326 litres |
Driving position, seats & space in the front
The A290 features a taller centre console compared to the Renault 5, which makes the cabin feel more like a cockpit for the driver, plus there’s a good amount of side bolstering to the seats that you won’t slide about in them when attacking corners. The thick F1-inspired steering wheel has a bright red ‘overtake’ button and a separate ‘recharge’ dial for quickly and easily switching between four modes for the regenerative braking.
There’s one glaring omission to the A290’s cabin, and that’s the lack of any cupholders anywhere. Relocating the drive buttons onto the centre console has removed the area where they are found on the 5; if you’re a coffee drinker, the A290 will likely make your morning routine very tricky. That aside, the driving position is good by hot hatch standards; not the lowest, but well placed relative to the wheel and pedals.
Seats & space in the back
Interior accommodation in the back of the A290 is pretty much identical to that of the Renault 5 E-Tech – that is to say that it’s not the most roomy of places to sit. It’s not the overall space that’s the problem – knee room and head room are largely similar to cars at the more compact end of the supermini spectrum, like the Toyota Yaris – the issue is that the seat base is quite low relative to the floor height, so longer-legged occupants will find their tights are lacking support. Two sets of Isofix child seat mounts, hidden behind folding plastic covers, are installed in the back, with further Isofix points on the front passenger seat.
Boot space
At 326 litres (or 300 litres when the subwoofer of the GTS’s sound system is taken into account), the A290’s boot is a fairly reasonable size for such a small car. Loading heavier items inside can be a little tricky due to the high load lip. A lack of under-bonnet storage isn’t unusual for a compact EV, but does take the edge off the car’s versatility. The rear seats do fold when you need to load larger items, opening up to 1,106 litres of total space.
