Electric Cars

This analysis delves into a captivating comparison between the contemporary electric performance of the Alpine A290 and the timeless allure of the Renault Clio Williams, a cherished icon in the realm of hot hatchbacks. Renault, a manufacturer with a rich history of crafting exhilarating compact vehicles, is now venturing into the electric domain with the A290. This new model is positioned as the high-performance variant of the celebrated Renault 5 EV, aiming to carry forward the legacy of its gasoline-powered predecessors. The assessment, notably featuring insights from seasoned automotive critic Steve Sutcliffe, meticulously evaluates how the A290, despite its electric powertrain, endeavors to replicate the spirited driving dynamics and engaging character that defined the beloved Clio Williams, underscoring both its triumphs and areas for potential refinement.

The core of this comparison centers on whether an electric hot hatch can genuinely capture the essence and driving pleasure of a revered internal combustion engine (ICE) classic. The Alpine A290, with its increased power output, wider stance, and finely tuned suspension, represents a significant step towards creating an electrifying driving experience. It delivers strong acceleration and surprising agility, even exhibiting a degree of lift-off oversteer that appeals to enthusiasts. However, the benchmark, the Clio Williams, remains a formidable opponent, renowned for its lighter weight, responsive nature, and the sheer joy it imparts behind the wheel. Its distinctive design, highlighted by gold wheels and signature blue paint, solidifies its legendary status, making it a challenging act to follow for any modern vehicle, regardless of its innovative powertrain.

The Alpine A290: An Electrifying New Contender

Renault's current hot hatch offering, the Alpine A290 EV, builds upon the foundation of the popular retro-inspired Renault 5. While the standard Renault 5 offers a competent electric vehicle experience with its appealing design, comfortable interior, rapid performance, and intuitive software, its 148 horsepower and 0-62 mph acceleration time of approximately 8 seconds don't quite push it into the high-performance category. This is precisely where the Alpine A290 steps in, designed to elevate the driving excitement. It features a more powerful electric motor, an expanded track width for enhanced stability, and a more aggressive suspension calibration, all contributing to a more dynamic and engaging ride. These enhancements ensure that the A290 delivers a thrilling performance, positioning it as a compelling option in the evolving electric vehicle market, capable of holding its own against more established performance cars.

The Alpine A290 significantly boosts its performance credentials with power outputs reaching 177 hp in the GT variant and an impressive 217 hp in the top-tier GTS model. This substantial increase in power is crucial for the A290, as it imbues the vehicle with a spirited and playful character, reminiscent of traditional hot hatches. Notably, the GTS version, with its higher output, introduces a noticeable degree of torque steer, adding to the engaging driving experience by requiring more active driver input. This power upgrade slashes the 0-62 mph sprint time to a swift 6.4 seconds. Coupled with its meticulously re-tuned suspension, the A290 surprises with its ability to exhibit lift-off oversteer through corners, a desirable trait for performance enthusiasts seeking a lively and responsive chassis. These dynamic capabilities have garnered praise from respected automotive journalist Steve Sutcliffe, who, known for his rigorous vehicle evaluations, found the A290's performance genuinely impressive.

Clio Williams: The Enduring Legacy

The Renault Clio Williams stands as an automotive icon from the 1990s, revered for its quintessential hot hatch qualities. Despite possessing a similar power output to the modern standard Renault 5, its lighter curb weight and quick acceleration made it a true joy to navigate through winding roads. Its exceptional handling, communicative chassis, and direct steering provided a driving purity that is increasingly rare in contemporary vehicles. Beyond its dynamic prowess, the Clio Williams also boasted a striking visual presence, characterized by its distinctive blue paintwork and iconic gold Speedline wheels. This combination of thrilling performance and an aesthetically pleasing design made it a highly sought-after vehicle, explaining why its value has appreciated significantly over time, cementing its status as a collector's item and a benchmark for performance hatchbacks.

Steve Sutcliffe's comprehensive review, featured on The Intercooler, directly pits the Alpine A290 against the legendary Clio Williams, offering a candid comparison of their driving characteristics. While Sutcliffe acknowledges the A290's commendable efforts and notes that it is indeed a highly enjoyable electric car to drive, he ultimately concludes that the Clio Williams still evokes a greater sense of pure driving pleasure. This sentiment underscores the unique charm and analog engagement offered by the classic hot hatch, which, despite its lower power figures compared to modern vehicles, continues to deliver an unparalleled level of excitement and driver involvement. Even though the A290 may not surpass the Williams in terms of sheer grin-inducing fun, it represents an admirable attempt by Alpine to create an electric vehicle that captures the spirit of performance driving, offering a compelling blend of contemporary technology and classic hot hatch enthusiasm.