And will the Alpine A290 kill the Mini Cooper E?

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Alpine Mini

The imminent arrival of the sporty version of the new Renault 5 is a serious thorn in the side of the Mini Cooper E.

Is the match already settled, even before the electric Mini Cooper E has had the chance to demonstrate its strengths (and weaknesses?)? Various reasons might suggest so, starting with the simple comparison of technical specifications with its new rival the Alpine A290, relatively similar at first glance… but ultimately very informative.

Thus, it becomes clear that the two rivals have the same price of 34,000 euros… as of June 2024. Unfortunately, the English car is produced in China, and with the application of higher tariffs starting July 1, 2024, its selling price is expected to rise by about 4,000 to 5,000 euros. And at 38,000 or 39,000 euros, there are electric cars that are much more relevant and efficient than an entry-level Mini Cooper E with no aesthetic charm. Starting with a Tesla Model Y now priced at 38,990 euros.

Mini Cooper E
The entry-level Mini Cooper E is frankly not very sexy…

Technical Specifications

Alpine A290Mini Cooper E
PriceFrom 38,000 €From 34,000 € (until July 1, 2024)
Eco bonus4,000 euros
Battery52 KWh40.7 KWh
Power180 hp184 hp
Driven wheelsFrontFront
Length3990 mm3858 mm
Width1820 mm1756 mm
Height1520 mm1460 mm
Number of doors53
Trunk326 liters210 liters
Weight1479 kg1615 kg
Maximum speed160 km/h160 km/h
0 to 100 km/h7.4 seconds7.3 seconds
Range380 km295 km
AC charging11 kW11 kW
DC charging100 kW75 kW

The analysis continues with the battery capacities which favor the Alpine, approximately 25% larger. This affects the higher range. Strangely, the Mini, despite its smaller battery, is also heavier by about 140 kg, which will influence its dynamic behavior.

Interior space also favors the French car, as well as the charging speed once on the road. The Alpine A290 can accept up to 100 kW of DC power, compared to only 75 kW at best for the Mini Cooper E.

Alpine A290 GTS Bleu Alpine Vision (1) copie
The Alpine A290 is immediately more aesthetic and sporty even in its base version.

If sports interest you, both of these rivals then offer even more high-performance versions with power, again mirroring each other, reaching 220 horsepower. But the prices also increase…

ALSO READ: The baguette case, the “So Frenchy” accessory of the Renault R5

This page is translated from the original post "Et l’Alpine A290 tua la Mini Cooper E ?" in French.

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