Alpine A290 Beats Ford Fiesta ST in EV vs. Combustion Hot Hatch Track Test
Despite having 105 hp less than the Cupra Born VZ, the Alpine posted the fastest lap time in the four-way comparison.
In a recent track test pitting electric hot hatches against their internal combustion counterparts, the Alpine A290 GTS emerged as the fastest car, outpacing the beloved Ford Fiesta ST. The result highlights the growing competitive threat EVs pose to traditional enthusiast vehicles, even when the drivers favor the mechanical engagement of manual gearboxes.
What Happened
The comparison featured four subcompact performance models: the electric Alpine A290 GTS and Cupra Born VZ, alongside the gas-powered Volkswagen Polo GTI and Ford Fiesta ST. The Alpine, based on the Renault 5, produced 217 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque from a 52-kWh battery pack, weighing 1,555 kg (3,428 lbs). It completed the lap in approximately 52.9 seconds. The Cupra Born VZ, with a more powerful 322 hp and 402 lb-ft output but a heavier 4,407 lbs (1,999 kg) curb weight, clocked in at 53.65 seconds. The Polo GTI, delivering 204 hp through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, finished at 53.76 seconds. The Ford Fiesta ST, equipped with a 197 hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine and a six-speed manual, posted the slowest time at 54.63 seconds.
Why It Matters
The test results challenge the assumption that lighter weight and manual transmissions guarantee a victory on the track. While the driver, Sam, expressed a clear preference for the Fiesta ST’s fun factor and handling characteristics—awarding it a 10/10 for fun—he acknowledged the Alpine’s superior lap times and cornering ability. The Alpine received a 10/10 handling rating, with the driver noting that while it felt slow in straight-line acceleration, its track performance was exceptional. Conversely, the Cupra Born VZ was criticized for its weight and electronic intervention but praised for its ability to slide, earning an 11/10 for fun. This dynamic suggests that while EVs may lack the traditional sensory feedback enthusiasts crave, their power delivery and chassis tuning are increasingly capable of outperforming legacy hot hatches in measurable metrics.
The Bottom Line
The Alpine A290 GTS won the track test with a lap time of 52.9 seconds, beating the Ford Fiesta ST, which finished last at 54.63 seconds. Despite the driver’s personal affection for the Fiesta’s manual gearbox and lightness, the electric Alpine demonstrated superior track capability, signaling a shift in performance benchmarks for the hot hatch segment.
