Alpine A110 (2017)
| Company type | Subsidiary |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Founded | March 15, 1955 |
| Founder | Jean Rédélé |
| Headquarters | Dieppe , France |
| Products | Sports cars |
| Parent | Renault |
The Alpine A110 is a rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car introduced by the French automaker Alpine during the 87th Geneva International Motor Show held in March 2017.[1]
Manufacturing commenced in late 2017 targeting Continental Europe initially, with subsequent availability in the United Kingdom, Japan, and Australia starting in 2018.[1]Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name The vehicle's designation and styling serve as a tribute to the original Alpine A110 model produced between 1961 and 1977.
Specifications
Constructed on a fully aluminium framework, the A110 is equipped with a 1.8-litre turbocharged inline-four engine featuring gasoline direct injection, derived from Nissan technology. This power unit is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox supplied by Getrag. Engineered collaboratively by Renault–Nissan and Alpine's own development team, it generates at 6,000 rpm and delivers torque spanning 2,000 to 5,000 rpm. The model achieves acceleration from in just 4.5 seconds, with its maximum speed electronically capped at .
At launch, the lineup consisted of three variants: Pure (entry-level version featuring 17-inch alloy wheels), Première (a limited edition of 1,955 units distinguished by forged wheels, quilted leather Sabelt bucket seats, a reversing camera, and metallic blue paint), and Legende (offering six-way adjustable sports seats, premium leather finishes, an enhanced audio system, plus exclusive wheel designs). Each trim shares an identical powertrain.[2]
In 2020, the Pure trim was discontinued and replaced by a version simply called Alpine A110 (without specific badging), while the Légende trim was rebranded as Alpine A110 GT; both retained the same engine found in the A110 S.
A110 S
Introduced in June 2019, the A110 S represents a sportier iteration boasting increased output of from its turbocharged 1.8-litre engine. It features upgraded suspension components including springs that are 50% firmer, anti-roll bars doubled in stiffness, improved dampers, high-performance braking system, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires formulated with a stickier compound. Additionally, the ride height has been lowered by .
The powertrain benefits from a retuned setup incorporating a larger turbocharger; peak horsepower is achieved at an engine speed 1,400 rpm higher than the standard version. The existing 7-speed dual-clutch transmission remains unchanged. The electronic stability control system has been recalibrated to enhance driving dynamics and includes a mode that allows full deactivation.[3]
Cosmetic upgrades include flag-themed graphics, orange brake calipers, optional matte grey exterior paint, lighter Fuchs alloy wheels, and an optional gloss-finish carbon fibre roof which contributes to weight reduction of . Overall mass totals .[4][5]
Performance figures indicate the A110 S sprints from in 4.4 seconds—marginally quicker by 0.1 seconds compared to the standard model—with its electronically governed top speed maintained at .[6]
A110 R
Unveiled on 4 October 2022, the Alpine A110 R ("Radical") is a circuit-oriented version featuring an extensively reworked aerodynamic package alongside a more aggressive chassis setup.[7]
This variant emphasizes weight savings and performance enhancements, accelerating from standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds while reaching a top speed of 285 km/h.[8]
Extensive use of carbon fibre for components such as the hood with twin air vents, lightweight 18-inch wheels, engine cover, and Sabelt Track monocoque seats contributes to a weight reduction of 34 kilograms resulting in an overall mass of 1,082 kilograms. Compared to the A110 S model, the A110 R improves its sprint time from zero to 62 mph by three-tenths of a second and incorporates stiffer suspension featuring adjustable dampers that lower ground clearance by 10 millimeters. Brembo brakes with enhanced cooling capabilities along with an advanced dual exhaust system manufactured through 3D printing technology enhance both performance and exhaust gas management.[9]
A110 Première Edition
Pre-orders for the "First Edition" commenced on 7 December 2016 via the Alpine mobile application, restricted to 1,955 units distributed across 13 countries as a tribute to the company's founding year. Buyers were required to place a €2,000 deposit and could choose their preferred color and serial number. Alpine announced that all units were reserved within a single weekend, with regular orders opening soon after.
The suggested retail price was set between €55,000 and €60,000, with initial deliveries beginning at the end of 2017. In March 2017, Alpine confirmed the final price at €58,500.
A110 Légende GT
Introduced in 2020, the A110 Légende GT received a refreshed 2021 version featuring updated styling elements while retaining the same powertrain found in the A110S, strengthening Alpine’s lineup of premium sports cars.
A110 Color Edition
Launched simultaneously with the Légende GT in March 2020, the A110 Color Edition showcases Sunflower Yellow—a contemporary reinterpretation of the iconic Jaune Tournesol hue from Alpine’s models of the 1960s and 1970s—combined with 18-inch GT wheels, semi-transparent taillights, and redesigned headlight inserts.
"Felipe Pantone" Art Car
In May 2021, Alpine partnered with Argentine artist Felipe Pantone to create a limited series of three A110 vehicles featuring a unique custom paint scheme, enhancing the brand’s exclusivity through this artistic collaboration.
A110S Bi-Ton Limitee
This special edition available only in Japan consists of 24 units based on the A110S and offers three dual-tone color combinations: Alpine Blue paired with a Deep Black roof, Abyss Blue with a Thunder Gray roof, and Iridescent White matched with a Deep Black roof.
Gendarmerie A110/A110 S
In April 2022, the French National Gendarmerie integrated 26 Alpine A110s outfitted to police specifications by Durisotti, replacing Renault Mégane RS patrol cars. These vehicles include specialized lighting systems, reinforced interiors, Sérac 18-inch wheels, and are finished in Bleu Abysse with reflective Gendarmerie decals. This deployment marks the first time Alpines have been used by the force since the 1960s and 1970s. A dedicated team of drivers operates these cars on France’s motorways.
Subsequently, eleven Alpine A110 S models with comparable specifications were delivered in 2023, increasing the Gendarmerie's Alpine fleet to a total of 37 vehicles.
"South Beach Colorway" Pack
To celebrate its inaugural Miami F1 Grand Prix in May 2022, Alpine introduced the "South Beach Colorway" package for the A110. This included two exclusive exterior colors—Bleu Azur (a teal shade) and Rose Bruyère (pink)—available through the Alpine Atelier customization service, complemented by coordinated interior and exterior design details.
A110 GT "Jean Rédélé"
Also unveiled in May 2022 was the limited-edition A110 GT "Jean Rédélé," produced in a run of 100 units to commemorate the centenary of Alpine’s founder and racing driver Jean Rédélé.
A110 Tour de Corse 75
In June 2022, Alpine introduced the A110 Tour de Corse 75, a special edition inspired by the Berlinette rally car number 7 that competed in the 1975 Tour de France rally. This version was produced in a restricted quantity of 150 units and was aimed at specific markets.
A110 R Fernando Alonso
Launched in October 2022 shortly after the debut of the A110 R, this limited edition comprised only 32 units and paid tribute to racing driver Fernando Alonso. It was positioned as a high-end model with an approximate price of €148,000.
A110 San Remo 73
Released on 17 March 2023 exclusively in France, the A110 San Remo 73 special edition is capped at 200 units. It marks the 50th anniversary of the original Alpine A110’s victory at Sanremo, which earned Alpine its sole World Rally Championship (WRC) title.
Vision
The Alpine Vision concept, revealed in Monaco in February 2016, served as a direct preview for the production Alpine A110 model.
A110 SportsX
Based on the A110 Pure, the Alpine A110 SportsX concept was showcased during the 35th International Automobile Festival held in January 2020.
A110 E-ternité
Presented at the 2022 French Grand Prix, the Alpine A110 E-ternité is an electric concept featuring a 178 kW electric motor that produces 300 Nm of torque. It utilizes a two-speed dual-clutch transmission and is powered by a 60 kWh lithium-ion battery derived from the Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric.
Engines
| Petrol engine | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model | Displacement | Type code | Power | Torque | 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) (s) | |
| A110 | 1,798 cc (109.7 cu in) | TCe M5P | 249 hp (186 kW; 252 PS) | 320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft) between 2,000 and 5,000 rpm | 4.5 | |
| A110S | 288 hp (215 kW; 292 PS) | 320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft) from 2,000 to 6,400 rpm | 4.4 | |||
| A110R | 300 hp (224 kW; 304 PS) | 340 N⋅m (251 lb⋅ft) between 2,000 and 6,400 rpm | 3.9 | |||
Sales
| Year | France | Europe | Global (total) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 1156 | 1950 | 2091 |
| 2019 | 3172 | 4376 | 4835 |
| 2020 | 743 | 1343 | 1526 |
| 2021 | 1618 | 2427 | 2659 |
| 2022 | 2138 | 3546 | |
| 2023 |
4328 | ||
| 2024 |
4408 |
Future development
In January 2021, Alpine entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Lotus Cars to collaborate on the development of the next-generation A110, which was originally slated for production by 2025. Nevertheless, this partnership was mutually dissolved in May 2023, with both manufacturers deciding to independently pursue their respective flagship sports car projects.
By June 2021, Alpine, alongside Renault Sport and Renault's Formula One divisions, renewed its three-decade-long collaboration with BorgWarner aimed at advancing future powertrain technologies. The roadmap included the upcoming A110 iteration, a compact B-segment sports vehicle built on the CMF-B EV platform, and a C-segment sports crossover utilizing the CMF-EV platform. Following BorgWarner’s acquisition of Delphi Technologies, it is anticipated that the new A110 will incorporate state-of-the-art silicon carbide inverters operating on an 800V architecture.
In December 2024, Alpine announced a postponement in the launch of the new A110 generation to 2026 but highlighted that it would maintain a weight advantage over similar internal combustion engine cars despite its electric propulsion system.
A110 Cup
Introduced in October 2017, the Alpine A110 Cup is a track-exclusive variant of the A110 that retains the road car’s chassis but is enhanced with a roll cage, adjustable suspension components, and racing-grade brakes. Its turbocharged 1.8-liter engine delivers 270 horsepower and is paired with a custom racing sequential gearbox and Michelin competition tires. Created specifically for the Alpine Elf Europa Cup series—which toured six European circuits during its debut season—only 20 units were produced, each priced at approximately €100,000.
A110 GT4
At the 2018 Geneva Motor Show, Alpine revealed the A110 GT4, an evolved version of the A110 Cup featuring boosted power output and improved aerodynamic elements such as an aggressive front splitter and a prominent rear wing. Owners of the original A110 Cup can upgrade their vehicles to GT4 specifications for an additional charge. The A110 GT4 commenced competition during the latter half of 2018.
A110 Rally
Announced in May 2019 and unveiled at the Rallye Mont-Blanc Morzine in September 2019, the Alpine A110 Rally complies with FIA Group R-GT homologation standards. It incorporates a lightweight aluminium chassis derived from the Cup and GT4 models and houses a turbocharged 1.8-liter engine producing between 320 and 330 horsepower. In 2020, Alpine launched an Alpine Trophy series consisting of five rounds within the FFSA French Tarmac Rally Championship. Emmanuel Guigou secured victories in the initial two rounds and finished third overall at the Rallye Mont-Blanc Morzine event in 2020.
A110 Pikes Peak
Alpine is set to make its debut at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on June 25, 2023, with a specially developed A110 variant created in partnership with Signatech. Revealed in May 2023, this model boasts enhanced aerodynamic features, an engine tuned to deliver close to , and a lightweight construction weighing just .
In popular culture
The Alpine A110 attracted media attention in February 2018 when a company-provided vehicle caught fire during filming for the British television program Top Gear. The incident was caused by a fuel system failure that led to a blaze destroying the car despite emergency interventions. Presenter Chris Harris reported dashboard warnings and smoke prior to the fire.
James May lauded the A110 for its performance and lightness, describing it as "the greatest thing to come out of France since the Mouli cheese grater" and later named it his "car of the year" for 2018 after purchasing one.
Following Renault's rebranding as Alpine for the 2021 Formula One World Championship, two cars featuring Alpine A521 liveries and driver numbers were supplied for Fernando Alonso and Esteban Ocon during European rounds.
In popular media, Kouki Sawatari is depicted driving three different versions of the A110 in the manga and anime series MF Ghost.
External links
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