Car Video Reviews / Alpine A110S
Alpine A110S Review: Banned in the USA, Brilliant in Australia
By Stuart Ellis · 5 March 2026 · 10 min video
A mid-engined French featherweight that Americans can't buy. I spent time with a fully optioned 2021 A110S and came away surprised by how much I loved it.
The verdict
Weight is the enemy of fun, and the A110S proves it. It gives you everything you need and nothing you don't. Cornering is unlike anything other than a Lotus, the ride is perfectly suited to Australian roads, and the lightness gives you huge confidence. I never thought I'd like a French car this much. Buy the S, because the base car is too soft and underpowered.
Key facts
- Engine
- 1.8-litre turbo four, mid-mounted
- Power / torque
- 215kW / 320Nm
- Gearbox
- 7-speed dual-clutch (no manual offered)
- Weight
- About 1,100kg, mostly aluminium chassis
- Weight distribution
- 44/56 front/rear
- Price new (2021)
- Just under A$150,000 driveaway, fully optioned
What I liked
- Cornering balance and confidence from the low weight
- Brilliant suspension tuning and a supple ride
- Dual-clutch gearbox suits the engine
- Supportive Sabelt buckets
What I didn't
- Steering lacks feel
- French quirks: no park button, frunk release in the passenger footwell
- Poor rear vision and a small frunk
- No glovebox, cupholders or door pockets
FAQ
Why is the Alpine A110 banned in the USA?
It was never certified for US crash standards, including the test for unbelted front occupants, so Alpine doesn't sell it there.
A110 or A110S?
Buy the S. The base car is too soft and underpowered by comparison.
Does the A110S come in manual?
No. It's dual-clutch only.
What are its rivals?
The Porsche Cayman and the Lotus Emira.
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