My impressions are reinforced after 10 laps around the 2km Grand Sambuc circuit. The car is equipped with three driving modes: Normal, Sport and Track. Throttle sensitivity, gear-change speed, electronic stability program setting and exhaust note differ from one mode to the next.
Track is brutal, but in a hugely satisfying way. Gear changes are lightning fast and you feel so “connected” to the throttle and steering that you are able to tackle every inch of the track with confidence.
Sport mode is probably best for day-to-day driving. Just push the “D” button and let the car do the rest.
Do not think for a second that the A110 sacrifices creature comforts for sportiness. It might be only 4.2m long, but it accommodates two tall adults easily. I am 1.8m tall and have no trouble getting into an excellent driving position with simple adjustments to the body-hugging Sabelt racing bucket seat.
Standard issue equipment includes a multimedia system with a seven-inch touchscreen, navigation, Bluetooth and a four-speaker Focal hi-fi, aluminium pedals and climate control with particle filter.
There isn’t much storage space, but two “boots” – one in front (96 litres) and another at the rear (100 litres) – provide as much stowage as any compact sports car.
Alpine has truly achieved something exceptional with the new A110.
In a segment filled with serious contenders such as the Alfa Romeo 4C, Audi TT and Porsche Cayman, it stands out.
The only gripe I have is the absence of a glove compartment. Looks like I have to keep my racing gloves and shades elsewhere then.
Alpine A110 1.8 (A)
ENGINE 1798cc, 16-valves, inline-4, turbocharged
MAX POWER 252hp at 6000rpm
MAX TORQUE 320Nm at 2000-5000rpm
GEARBOX 7-speed dual-clutch with manual select
0-100KM/H 4.5 seconds
TOP SPEED 250km/h (governed)
CONSUMPTION 16.4km/L (combined)
PRICE INCL. COE To be announced (car arrives in the third quarter of 2019)
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