Hill climbing in the Alpine A290: Why this electric hot hatch feels like a Renault 5 on steroids
Imagine racing uphill against the clock in near silence, the only sounds breaking the Gloucestershire countryside being the squeal of tires and a faint electric whir. That’s the experience I had at the legendary Prescott Speed Hill Climb, home of the Bugatti Owners’ Club, where I got behind the wheel of the Alpine A290—a performance-tuned version of the 2025 Car of the Year-winning Renault 5 E-Tech. But here’s where it gets controversial: while the A290 shares its DNA with the R5, it’s far more than just a souped-up sibling. It’s a car that challenges what we expect from an electric hot hatch.
A Renault 5, But Not as You Know It
At first glance, the A290 is unmistakably Renault 5-inspired, but it’s been transformed into a muscular, track-ready machine. Wider wheel arches house 19-inch Michelin-developed tires, while aggressive bodywork gives it a stance that screams ready to race. Underneath, it’s a different beast entirely. The suspension has been upgraded with hydraulic bump stops for a balance of comfort and precision, and bespoke anti-roll bars keep it planted in corners. A reinforced front subframe improves handling, and Brembo four-piston calipers ensure stopping power to match its speed.
Inside: A Driver’s Playground
The cabin is a masterclass in performance-focused design. Heavily bolstered seats keep you in place, while a leather-wrapped steering wheel features aluminum controls inspired by Alpine’s Formula 1 heritage. One standout feature? A red ‘overtake’ button that unleashes an extra burst of power for up to 10 seconds—a feature that feels like cheating, in the best possible way. And this is the part most people miss: despite its track-focused upgrades, the A290 retains the R5’s everyday usability, albeit with a more aggressive edge.
Three Flavors of Fun
The A290 lineup includes the GT+, GT Performance+, and GTS, all powered by a 52kWh battery. The GT+ starts with a 180hp motor, while the Performance+ and GTS upgrade to 220hp. The GTS, the range-topper, adds luxury touches and special wheels, but it’s the Performance+ that strikes the best balance between power and comfort. Prices start at £30,245 for the GT+ and climb to £34,245 for the GTS after the EV grant—a bargain for what you get.
On the Road: A Hot Hatch Reborn
Taking the GT+ on the Cotswolds roads, the first thing that hits you is its agility. Despite weighing 1,483kg, it feels light and responsive, like a 90s hot hatch but with modern refinement. The steering is direct, the handling engaging, and the suspension compliant enough for spirited driving without fatigue. The grip is astonishing, especially considering all that torque is sent to the front wheels. It’s a car that encourages you to push harder, yet remains forgiving.
The GTS: A Different Beast
A brief run in the GTS revealed its true character: blistering speed without sacrificing the A290’s signature agility. Hit the overtake button, and it surges forward with a ferocity that rivals a turbocharger. Yet, unlike many high-performance cars, it remains supple and engaging—a rare feat. But here’s the question: is the GTS’s extra power worth the premium, or does the GT+ offer a sweeter spot for daily driving?
Hill-Climb History: Where It All Began
Hill climbing is Britain’s oldest motorsport, with courses like Shelsley Walsh (opened in 1905) predating even Brooklands. Prescott, established in 1938, is a deceptively challenging 1,128-yard climb. The current record? A mind-boggling 34.6 seconds set by Matthew Ryder in 2024—one of my instructors for the day. Attempting it in the A290 was both terrifying and exhilarating. Ryder’s advice—‘late and apex’—helped, but my over-eager driving highlighted just how skilled the pros truly are.
The Verdict: A Worthy Successor?
As a Renault 5 enthusiast, I was skeptical. But the A290 isn’t just a worthy successor; it’s a reinvention. While it sacrifices some everyday practicality for performance, it’s a compelling package for anyone seeking an electrifying second car. Yes, it lacks the engine noise of classic GTis, but its seamless power delivery and addictive handling more than make up for it.
The Controversy: Electric vs. Petrol
Here’s the divisive part: can an electric hot hatch truly replace the raw, visceral experience of a petrol-powered GTI? The A290 comes close, but it’s a different kind of thrill. It’s quieter, smoother, and more efficient, but does that make it better? I’ll leave that to you. What’s undeniable is that the Alpine A290 is a game-changer—a car that proves electric performance can be just as exciting, if not more so. Do you agree? Let’s debate it in the comments.
