title：Alpine A290: Autocar’s 2025 Best Fun EV Explained

content：Can an Electric Hot Hatch Deliver Alpine’s Thrill?

If you love the zing of classic French hot hatches but wonder if electric power can match that driver-focused excitement, you’re not alone. Alpine’s A290—Autocar’s 2025 Best Fun EV—aims to answer that question. After analyzing the video interview with Autocar editor Mark Tishaw, I’m breaking down why this electric hatchback stands out as more than just an EV: it’s a true Alpine.

content：Why the A290 Won Autocar’s 2025 Best Fun EV Award

Autocar’s group test pitted five affordable electric hot hatches against each other to find the best all-rounder. The A290 didn’t just win—it dominated. Mark Tishaw, Autocar’s editor, calls it a “brilliant allround performance machine that ticked almost every box.” This isn’t just a random win; it’s the result of rigorous testing across road and track, solidifying the A290 as a worthy successor to Alpine’s petrol-powered legacy.

content：Driving Performance: Track Ready & Daily Friendly

Track Capability That Excites

The A290 isn’t just a daily driver—it’s built for the circuit. Mark emphasizes its loads of grip, sharp steering feel, and throttle adjustability, letting you push it in corners without losing control. It’s the kind of EV you can take to a track day and genuinely enjoy, a rare feat for electric hot hatches.

Daily Usability That Works

At under 4 meters long, the A290 fits perfectly into city life. It’s maneuverable enough to nip through traffic or park in tight spots, yet has a comfortable ride quality that avoids the harshness of some performance EVs. Mark notes it’s “well judged”—you can drive it to the supermarket or take it on a weekend trip without compromise.

content：Design & F1-Inspired Interior

Exterior: Heritage Meets Modernity

The A290 pays homage to Alpine’s iconic models with its headlight design, while adding modern touches like a subtle body kit and aerodynamic details. It looks the part—sporty, smart, and unmistakably Alpine.

Interior: Formula 1 Tech for Every Driver

Alpine’s F1 team inspired the interior. A F1-style rocker switch on the steering wheel lets you adjust regen braking (one-pedal driving), and a push-to-pass button unlocks full performance. The touchscreen even includes coaching features to help you drive better and enjoy the car more—tech that adds value beyond basic controls.

content：Electric Powertrain That Keeps Alpine’s Spirit

The A290 uses a front-mounted 217 hp electric motor and a battery pack between the wheels, lowering its center of gravity for a planted feel. It hits 0-62 mph in 6.4 seconds—instant power when you need it, without the lag of a petrol engine. This powertrain doesn’t just replace the old zing; it redefines it for the electric age.

content：Toolbox & Action Guide

Immediately Actionable Checklist

1. Test drive the A290 on both city roads and a track to feel its dual personality.
2. Try the F1-inspired steering wheel features (regen switch and push-to-pass) during your test.
3. Compare it to rivals like the Cupra Born or Renault Megane E-Tech to see its edge.
4. Explore the touchscreen’s coaching tools to understand their value.

Advanced Resource Recommendations

• Autocar’s 2025 EV Group Test: Dive into detailed comparisons of the A290 and its rivals (trusted, data-driven insights).
• Alpine’s Official Website: Book a test drive and check full specs to see if it fits your lifestyle.

content：Conclusion & Engagement

The Alpine A290 isn’t just a great electric hot hatch—it’s a great hot hatch, full stop. It combines track excitement, daily practicality, and F1-inspired tech to keep Alpine’s thrill alive in the electric era.

When you try the A290, which feature do you think will impress you most? The track performance, the F1 interior, or its daily usability? Share your thoughts in the comments!