Alpine is set to make a splash in the luxury car market with its upcoming D- and E-segment SUVs. These electric range-toppers will not only rival the likes of the Porsche Macan and Cayenne but also offer high-performance and energized chassis dynamics inspired by the popular A110 sports car.
Expected to be launched in 2027 and 2028, Alpine’s SUVs will be marketed as lifestyle products, combining luxury and performance. While they won’t be pure-performance machines, the brand promises that engaging dynamics will still be a core attribute of these vehicles.
Antony Villain, Alpine’s head of design, expressed the brand’s vision for the SUVs: “The idea is to use the driving experience of the A110 and duplicate it in different segments. We want something high-performance, sporty, and energized. We don’t want something that just goes in straight lines super-quickly.”
However, achieving this level of driving dynamics in an electric SUV presents challenges. Electric cars are inherently heavier than their combustion-engine counterparts. To overcome this, Alpine plans to implement various technical solutions, including a low center of gravity, torque vectoring, and four-wheel steering.
Alpine’s larger E-segment SUV is designed to expand the brand’s footprint, particularly in the US market. While it will be bigger compared to European standards, Villain clarified that it won’t be a large car by American standards. He hinted at a length of around five meters, making it a natural rival to SUVs like the Audi Q8 E-tron and BMW iX. On the other hand, the D-segment model is expected to be approximately 4.7 meters long.
The introduction of these SUVs is part of Alpine’s strategy to establish a presence in the luxury car market. By leveraging the success and driving experience of the A110 sports car, Alpine aims to create a unique selling proposition for its SUVs. While other luxury SUVs may focus on straight-line speed, Alpine wants to differentiate itself by offering a thrilling and engaging driving experience.
Alpine’s commitment to performance and handling is evident in its decision to incorporate torque vectoring and four-wheel steering in its SUVs. These technologies will enhance cornering capabilities and improve overall agility, ensuring that the driving experience remains true to the brand’s DNA.
In addition to their dynamic prowess, Alpine’s SUVs will also feature striking design elements. While specific details are yet to be revealed, the brand’s design philosophy will likely be reflected in the SUVs’ aesthetics. Expect a blend of sportiness, elegance, and modernity that captures the essence of Alpine’s design language.
The launch of Alpine’s SUVs is still a few years away, but the anticipation is already building. As the brand expands its product lineup, it aims to attract a wider audience while staying true to its performance heritage. With the promise of high-performance and energized dynamics, Alpine’s SUVs are poised to make a significant impact in the luxury car market.
In conclusion, Alpine’s upcoming D- and E-segment SUVs will offer a unique combination of luxury, performance, and engaging dynamics. Inspired by the A110 sports car, these electric range-toppers will rival established players like the Porsche Macan and Cayenne. With their advanced technologies and striking design, Alpine’s SUVs are set to make a bold statement in the luxury car market.