Alpine A110 Pure 2019 Review: 7 Key Pros And Cons

The Alpine A110 Pure stands out in the 2019 sports car landscape as an entry-level model that punches well above its weight. This mid-engine coupe revives the Alpine legacy with a focus on driver engagement, shedding unnecessary mass to deliver agile performance on twisty roads and everyday drives alike. Unlike heavier rivals, its sub-1,100kg kerb weight transforms a modest power output into exhilarating acceleration and precise handling.

Design and Build: Retro Elegance Meets Modern Engineering

Crafted from a 96% aluminium chassis, the A110 Pure weighs just 1,094kg, making it 315kg lighter than an Audi TT and 270kg less than a Porsche 718 Cayman. This featherweight construction enhances every aspect of the driving experience, from cornering poise to braking response. The exterior channels classic Alpine styling with sleek lines, wide-opening doors for easy access, and a low-slung profile that measures 4,180mm long, 1,798mm wide (excluding mirrors), and only 1,252mm high.

Seventeen-inch ten-spoke alloys on the Pure trim maintain visual appeal without the larger wheels of higher variants, preserving ride compliance. Inside, lightweight Sabelt bucket seats at 13.1kg each hug the driver firmly yet comfortably, paired with black leather, aluminium accents, and body-coloured door inserts. Standard kit includes keyless entry, climate control, sat-nav, and a telematics system with lap-timer functionality. The snug cabin cocoons occupants in premium materials, feeling more spacious than its dimensions suggest.

Powertrain Performance: Turbocharged Efficiency and Punch

At the heart lies a 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 185kW and 320Nm, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This setup propels the A110 Pure to 100km/h in 4.5 seconds, outpacing many competitors despite an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h. The gearbox shines in Sport and Track modes with rapid shifts and intuitive paddle control, while Normal mode ensures smooth urban cruising.

Fuel efficiency impresses at 6.2L/100km combined, aided by the car’s low mass and efficient tuning. The sports exhaust amplifies a throaty soundtrack, blending turbo whooshes with deep burps on upshifts, turning every drive into an auditory event. No spare wheel or towing capacity reflects its pure sports focus, with a 45L fuel tank suiting spirited outings.

This table highlights the A110’s advantages in weight and acceleration, underscoring its value proposition.

Handling and Ride: A Chassis That Dances

The A110 Pure’s suspension masterfully balances firmness with compliance, floating over bumps and skimming undulations where rivals falter. Its long-travel dampers handle rough surfaces without adaptive tech, keeping the low seating position stable and fatigue-free. Steering is light yet communicative, rotating the chassis around the driver’s hips for intuitive turn-in.

Driving modes—Normal, Sport, and Track—adjust throttle, exhaust, steering, and gearbox parameters. Track mode enables full ESP deactivation for skilled drivers, while lower settings provide safety nets. Grip levels are generous, Brembo brakes deliver progressive stopping power, and the compact size suits narrow UK lanes. At speed, it flows unlike stiffer performance cars, though low-speed jiggle on 17-inch wheels is noticeable.

Interior Comfort and Technology: Unexpected Refinement

Despite its track focus, the Pure offers daily usability. Fixed buckets prove surprisingly accommodating for longer journeys, with logical switchgear and wide doors easing entry. The seven-inch touchscreen handles navigation and Alpine mySPIN smartphone integration, though it’s less polished than rivals. A Focal audio upgrade enhances the cabin, complemented by telematics displaying performance data.

Compared to the Légende’s adjustable seats and LED lights, the Pure prioritizes lightness with parking sensors and a reversing camera. Noise insulation exceeds Lotus levels, with subdued tyre roar even versus Porsches.

Rivals and Pricing: Cayman Alternative?

• Porsche 718 Cayman: Heavier and pricier, but offers more power; A110 edges in agility and fun.
• Lotus Elise: Stripped-back purist, lacks A110’s comforts and refinement.
• Audi TT: Heavier daily driver, misses the A110’s engagement.
• Alfa Romeo 4C: Similar price but less usable.

Priced accessibly from around $106,500 for the Premiere Edition equivalent, it undercuts exclusivity rivals while delivering comparable thrills. Servicing may prove costly post-warranty.

Real-World Testing: From Streets to Tracks

On suburban runs, the A110 glides effortlessly, returning efficient figures. Twisties reveal its balance, with the engine pulling eagerly and chassis inspiring confidence. Track days showcase paddle-shifting precision and brake endurance, feeling connected at road speeds unlike track-only machines.

Pros and Cons

• Exceptional handling and low weight
• Engaging soundtrack and performance
• Comfortable for a sports car
• Competitive pricing
• Basic infotainment
• Firm low-speed ride
• No spare wheel

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Alpine A110 Pure suitable for daily driving?

Yes, its compliant ride, quiet cabin, and efficient powertrain make it surprisingly practical for commutes and errands.

How does it compare to the Porsche Cayman?

Lighter and more agile, the A110 offers similar thrills at a lower price, though the Cayman has more power.

What are the fuel economy figures?

Combined consumption is 6.2L/100km, impressive for its performance.

Does it have modern safety features?

Standard ESP with adjustable modes, parking sensors, and camera; no advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise.

Is the interior comfortable for taller drivers?

The low buckets suit most, with good adjustability despite fixed backs.

Ownership Verdict: A Modern Classic

The 2019 Alpine A110 Pure proves entry-level doesn’t mean basic—it’s a driver’s car blending heritage purity with contemporary usability. Ideal for enthusiasts seeking Cayman-like joy without the premium tag, its lightweight ethos ensures every mile delights.