Get ready, car enthusiasts and mobility visionaries! Alpine, the legendary French brand synonymous with agility and driving pleasure, has just redefined its future with a machine that promises to ignite the high-performance electric segment: the 2026 Alpine A390. This is not just another electric car; it’s the second pillar of the brand’s 100% electric “Dream Garage,” boldly combining Alpine’s pure sporty DNA with the practicality modern life demands.
Unveiled in May 2025, the A390 is Alpine’s daring entry into the world of electric crossover/sport fastbacks. It’s a strategic move aiming to attract a broader audience without sacrificing the essence that made the brand famous. It’s expected to start making a stronger presence on the roads beginning in 2026, promising a five-seat experience packed with the soul of a true sports car.
What Makes the Alpine A390 a Milestone for the Brand?
For the first time in its history, Alpine ventures into the sporty crossover segment. The A390 represents a bold expansion, aiming to combine the brand’s signature lightness and agility with unprecedented versatility. It’s an essential evolutionary step for Alpine’s electric future.
Despite its crossover stature, the A390 flaunts an incredibly low, aerodynamic fastback design. With lines inspired by Alpine’s LMDh racing prototypes and touches from the iconic A110, such as the aggressive rear diffuser and the triangular “Cosmic Dust” light signature, it ensures form follows function and emotion. Every curve seems to scream speed—even at a standstill.
What’s the Magic Behind the A390’s Performance?
Forget the concept of a “heavy, soulless electric car.” Alpine focused on delivering that “Alpine lightness” feel despite the inherent battery weight. The engineering team opted for solutions like passive dampers instead of complex air suspensions, seeking the purest connection to the road.
The real star is the A390’s tri-motor powertrain. With one motor on the front axle and two independent motors on the rear axle, it not only offers all-wheel drive but also an advanced torque vectoring system (Alpine Active Torque Vectoring). This means torque can be precisely distributed between the rear wheels, optimizing agility through corners in a way few electric cars can match.
Where and When Can We See the Alpine A390?
The A390’s market release in 2026 will follow a country-by-country schedule. In France, its home, the launch is confirmed with orders starting late 2025. Production will take place at the historic Dieppe factory, keeping the French tradition alive.
Other European markets like Germany will follow a similar timeline. The UK will see first deliveries a bit later, expected in the second quarter of 2026. Unfortunately, for enthusiasts in places like the United States, Brazil, China, Japan, and others, Alpine has yet to release specific 2026 information, and the arrival in some of these markets, such as Brazil, seems unlikely in the short term. Meanwhile, other brands are already solidifying their global presence with electric vehicles, like the Audi Q4 E-Tron 45 2025, which received a remarkable power and range upgrade.
What Innovative Technologies Does the A390 Offer?
The A390 is based on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance’s AmpR Medium platform, but it has been extensively adapted by Alpine to deliver performance. Elements like the wing between the front headlights and the rear diffuser are not just aesthetic; they are part of an active and passive aerodynamic system designed to optimize downforce and efficiency.
The interior is a tech showcase with two high-resolution screens: a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 12-inch infotainment center running Android Automotive OS. This means native integration with Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Play Store, creating a connected and familiar experience. Other high-performance EVs, like the XPeng P7, also place a strong emphasis on in-car tech to attract buyers.
The steering wheel, inspired by F1, has dedicated buttons such as “OV” (Overtake) for maximum momentary power and “RCH” (Recharge) to optimize energy recovery. Driving modes like Save, Normal, Sport, Perso, and even Track adjust various vehicle parameters, promising a customizable and thrilling driving experience. The Alpine Telemetrics system can even offer coaching to help drivers get the most out of the car on the track.
How Does the A390 Compare to Its Competitors?
The Alpine A390 is not just an evolution but a revolution for the brand, stepping into the family EV segment with a sporty soul—something entirely new for Alpine. Its proposition puts it on a collision course with heavyweight names.
* Porsche Macan EV: Considered the closest rival. The A390 bets on an engaging driving experience with a unique touch of French engineering and rear active torque vectoring as a differentiator. Pricing appears competitive, which could be a deciding factor for many.
* Tesla Model Y (Performance): While the Model Y shines in straight-line acceleration and charging infrastructure, the A390 aims to stand out through dynamic refinement, perceived build quality, and a more exclusive design. The Tesla Model Y has its own peculiarities, as seen in a version equipped with a gasoline generator for expeditions.
Alpine does not hide that it wants to offer a premium alternative focused on driving pleasure, something beyond raw acceleration numbers. Other players in the premium electric market, like the Lexus RZ 2026, also seek their space with luxury and technology proposals.
Alpine A390 GT vs. GTS: Which One to Choose?
The A390 initially arrives in two versions, each with a clear identity.
Alpine A390 GT: Elegance and Balanced Performance
* Powertrain: Tri-motor, all-wheel drive (AWD).
* Power: Approximately 395-400 hp.
* 0-60 mph Performance: Approximately 4.8 seconds.
* Battery: 89 kWh (usable).
* Range (WLTP): Estimated between 323-345 miles.
* DC Charging: Up to 190 kW.
* Price (Europe): Starting at €65,000.
The GT version already offers a performance and equipment level worthy of a premium car. With 20-inch wheels, Matrix LED headlights, heated seats with electric adjustment, and Devialet sound system, it’s the entry point to the A390 experience with a focus on comfort and technology.
Alpine A390 GTS: The Apex of Electric Sportiness
* Powertrain: Tri-motor, all-wheel drive (AWD) with enhanced Alpine Active Torque Vectoring.
* Power: Approximately 463-470 hp.
* Torque: Approximately 596 lb-ft (808 Nm).
* 0-60 mph Performance: Approximately 3.9 seconds.
* Top Speed: Approximately 137 mph (220 km/h).
* Battery: 89 kWh (usable).
* Range (WLTP): Estimated between 323-329 miles.
* DC Charging: Up to 190 kW.
* Price (Europe): Starting at €76,000.
The GTS raises the bar with more power, torque, and breathtaking 0-60 times. It comes equipped with forged 21-inch wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, Sabelt sports seats with massage, and premium finishes like a microfiber headliner. It’s the choice for those seeking maximum performance and sporty luxury.
The crucial difference between the versions lies in power and the details amplifying the sporty and luxury experience. The GTS is clearly the version aimed at enthusiasts who want the highest acceleration and dynamic performance, while the GT offers an excellent balance for daily use with more than enough performance.
Strengths and Weaknesses of the Alpine A390
Like any vehicle, the A390 has its highlights and areas to consider.
Pros
- Unique and attractive design blending styles.
- Exciting performance, especially in the GTS version.
- Advanced technology, including tri-motor system and torque vectoring.
- Premium, driver-focused interior.
- Exclusivity of the Alpine brand in the EV segment.
- Good range and fast charging capability.
- Practicality of a five-seat vehicle.
Cons
- High price positioning it in the luxury/performance segment.
- After-sales and maintenance network still limited globally.
- Considerable weight despite engineering efforts.
- Real-world range may vary significantly with sporty use.
- Initial availability limited to a few markets.
- Strong competition from established brands.
- Reliance on screens for many controls may not appeal to everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Alpine A390
- When will the Alpine A390 be available for purchase? The first orders in Europe (France and Germany) start at the end of 2025, with deliveries in 2026. Other markets will have different timelines.
- What is the estimated range of the A390? The WLTP range varies between 323-345 miles, depending on the version and conditions.
- What is the maximum power of the Alpine A390? The GT version has about 400 hp, while the GTS reaches approximately 470 hp.
- Where will the Alpine A390 be manufactured? It will be produced at Alpine’s historic factory in Dieppe, France.
- Will the A390 have bi-directional charging capability? Yes, the Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) function will be available, initially in France.
My Opinion: Alpine’s Bold Future
The Alpine A390 is, without a doubt, a fascinating car and a giant leap for the French brand. Entering the high-performance electric crossover segment with such a technical and driving-focused product shows that Alpine is not afraid to innovate and challenge the established giants. The design is provocative, the torque vectoring technology is a real standout, and the commitment to maintaining the sense of agility is commendable. Of course, weight is an inherent challenge for EVs, and the price places it in an exclusive club. But for those seeking a high-performance electric with personality, history, and a touch of French exclusivity, the A390 seems like an extremely attractive proposition. It’s a car that promises more than numbers; it promises driving emotion.
And you, what do you think of the new Alpine A390? Leave your comment below and share your opinion!
Author: Fabio Isidoro
Fabio Isidoro is the founder and editor-in-chief of Canal Carro, where he has been writing about the automotive world since 2022. Passionate about cars and technology, he began his journey on the HospedandoSites portal and today dedicates himself to creating technical content and comprehensive analyses of national and international vehicles. 📩 Contact: contato@canalcarro.net.br