Alpine is coming to Australia.
Renault has confirmed the cars will go on sale here from the middle of next year, starting with a special launch edition of the A110.
Renault Australia’s Andrew Moore said the brand combines the timeless Alpine principles of compact size, light weight and dynamic agility while staying true to the spirit of its predecessors – in particular the A110 Berlinette.
The A110 is highly modern yet immediately recognisable as an Alpine.
Its aluminium platform and body are bonded, riveted and welded to provide an exceptionally rigid yet light structure, with a kerb weight of just 1080kg.
With an optimal 44:56 per cent weight distribution and low centre of gravity, the Alpine’s mass is centred around the middle of the car, with the fuel tank behind the front axle and the engine in front of the rear axle.
Suspension is double wishbones front and the rear.
A 1.8 litre turbocharged engine delivers 185kW of power and an impressive 320Nm of torque, with specific air intake, turbocharger, exhaust system and engine tune.
The combination of minimum weight and strong engine output delivers a competitive power to weight ratio of 5.8kW and acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.5s.
The engine is mated to a Getrag seven-speed wet-clutch DCT gearbox.
With a completely flat floor and functional diffuser under the rear bumper, the A110 combines low drag with significant down force.
This allows the car to reach an electronically limited 250km/h top speed, while retaining a smooth ‘Alpine’ profile – without the need for a rear spoiler (bet you it’s still an option).
Inside, top quality materials, including smooth grain leather, structural aluminium, carbon fibre – ensure a rewarding driver and passenger experience.
The new car will be built in the Alpine factory in Dieppe (Normandy, France), its historical and spiritual home.
Australia is only the second market to be confirmed outside Europe.
The launch model will draw its inspiration from the European ‘Premiere Edition’, featuring:
- 18-inch Otto Fuchs forged aluminium wheels,
- Sabelt monocoque sport seats
- Brembo sports braking system with calipers incorporating integrated parking brake and dual-material brake discs with aluminium hub
- Active lightweight sports exhaust
- Alpine-tuned Focal audio system
- Matte carbon fibre interior accents
- Brushed aluminium pedals
Full details and pricing will be revealed closer to the arrival of vehicles.
However, as an indication, Renault Australia expects to be able to bring the car to market at an estimated price of between $90,000 and $110,000 (excluding dealer delivery and statutory charges).
Following the production run of the special launch model, a range of other variants will be available.
Local deliveries will begin in the second half of 2018, but those interested can reserve a vehicle by contacting Alpine Australia on (03) 8595 2922 or emailing info@alpinecars.com.au