Alpine, the French brand synonymous with Formula One racing and lightweight sports cars, has taken a bold leap into the family electric vehicle market with its new A390. Launched on Tuesday 23 December 2025, this five-seat model promises to translate the brand's racing pedigree into everyday driving enjoyment, but does it succeed as a practical family proposition?
Driving Dynamics: Where the A390 Truly Shines
On paper, the Alpine A390 is an electric SUV, but its low-slung, fastback stance feels more like a performance saloon. Priced from £61,390 for the GT version, it positions itself as a rival to cars like the Tesla Model Y Performance. The range-topping GTS model tested here costs £69,390 and delivers a formidable 464bhp, enabling a 0-62mph sprint in just 3.9 seconds.
Where the A390 excels is in its driving feel. Thanks to a clever tri-motor setup and active torque vectoring, grip and composure are exceptional. The steering is a particular highlight—light, precise, and full of feedback. Body control is impressive, aided by a lower centre of gravity than typical SUVs. Despite riding on large 21-inch wheels, the A390 manages a surprisingly compliant ride, striking a fine balance between comfort and control.
Power comes from an 89kWh battery, with a maximum claimed range of 345 miles for the GT and Premiere Edition. The GTS sees this drop to 312 miles. Fast charging peaks at 190kW, allowing a 15-80% top-up in under 25 minutes.
Interior & Practicality: A Compromised Cabin
Inside, the A390 presents a mixed bag. Build quality is strong, with high-grade materials, but the cabin design heavily borrows from Renault models, lacking the bespoke drama expected at this price point. The front seats are superb, but some switchgear feels disappointingly plasticky.
The standout tech feature is the 12-inch portrait touchscreen with Google Built-In services, which works well. A 13-speaker Devialet stereo and comprehensive driver aids are standard. Alpine-specific touches include a telemetrics display and a metallic blue rotary dial for adjusting brake regeneration.
Practicality is where the A390 falters as a family car. Rear-seat space is tight, with limited legroom and foot space under the front seats. The low roofline makes fitting child seats awkward, and rear visibility is hampered by a shallow window. The saving grace is a large 532-litre boot with useful under-floor storage.
Verdict: A Driver's Car First, A Family Car Second
The Alpine A390 makes a compelling case for the driving enthusiast. It is engaging, stylish, and brilliantly engineered to deliver fun behind the wheel. For those who prioritise driving pleasure above all else, it will put a smile on your face daily.
However, as a fully-fledged family car, it faces stiff competition. The compromises in rear-seat comfort and space are significant at this premium price point. Rivals like the Tesla Model Y and Porsche Macan Electric offer more convincing family-friendly packages.
Ultimately, the A390 is a fascinating and largely successful interpretation of a sporty EV from a brand with racing in its DNA. It proves Alpine can build an electric car that drives superbly, but those with growing families might find its practicality doesn't quite match its thrilling performance.
