2025 Alpine A110 R Ultime Review: Ultimate Lightweight Sports Car with Track-Bred Performance

Overview

Alpine’s A110 R Ultime represents the pinnacle of their mid-engine sports car development, combining motorsport-derived technologies with a road-legal sports car ethos. Limited to just 110 units worldwide, it builds on the already impressive A110 R by increasing engine output by nearly 50 hp, upgrading the six-speed dual-clutch transmission, and significantly enhancing aerodynamics to boost downforce and stability at high speed. The car retains a featherweight aluminium chassis with carbon fibre body panels to keep weight well under 1,150 kg, enabling exceptional power-to-weight ratio and superlative handling. Track-grade Ohlins adjustable dampers, AP Racing brakes, and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires complete this highly refined package that delivers pure driver engagement and outstanding lap times, including an estimated 7:15 Nordschleife time, around 20 seconds quicker than its predecessor. The alpine heritage is expressed not only in performance but also personalization, with an extensive bespoke program available for colors and interior finishes, making each R Ultime uniquely special.

What they’re saying

Good Comments

• “The A110 R Ultime is a masterclass in lightweight agility and performance, pushing the limits of what a mid-engine sports car can do.” — Evo

• “Its 345 hp turbocharged engine and well-tuned chassis make it blisteringly fast and incredibly fun to drive on both road and track.” — Car and Driver

• “The aerodynamic upgrades and Ohlins dampers give the car outstanding cornering grip and stability at speed.” — Autocar

• “A beautiful balance of power, weight, and sophistication with a luxurious yet purposeful interior.” — Top Gear

Bad Comments

• “Limited practicality and tight space mean this is clearly a specialist car, not suited for daily driving.” — Car and Driver

• “Price is steep for what is essentially a track-focused variant of the A110, limiting its appeal.” — What Car?

• “The high-performance tires, while great on track, offer less comfort and durability for regular roads.” — Autocar

• “Some drivers may find the limited electronic driver aids a drawback compared to rivals.” — Evo

Key Specifications Overview

• Powertrain: 1.8L turbocharged inline-4 petrol engine

• Power Output: 345 hp (257 kW) at 6000 rpm

• Torque: 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) at 3200 rpm

• Transmission: 6-speed dual-clutch automatic (DW6)

• Drivetrain: Rear-engine, rear-wheel drive

• Fuel Economy / Range: Not widely disclosed; performance priority

• Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds

• Weight: Approx. 1147 kg (2529 lbs)

• Seating Capacity: 2

• Cargo Capacity: Limited sports car storage

• Safety Rating: Advanced ABS, AP Racing brakes, race-derived electronic aids

• Price Range: Approx. £99,000 UK; €120,000 Europe; $130,000 USD (estimates)

Key Specifications Table

Price Range Table

(Ordered by geographical location, biggest market first: £UK, $USA, AUS, NZ, EU)

Performance and Driving Experience Overview

The Alpine A110 R Ultime epitomizes driver-focused performance. Its lightweight chassis enhances responsiveness, while the robust 345 hp turbo engine delivers thrilling acceleration and immediate throttle response. Improved aerodynamics boost grip and stability at high speeds, generating 160 kg of downforce. Ohlins adjustable dampers provide exquisite ride tuning for both street and track conditions, complemented by high-performance AP Racing brakes that ensure confident stopping power. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires add excellent mechanical grip but are more suited to track use. The driving experience is pure, engaging, and evocative of Alpine’s racing pedigree, rewarding skilled input with rewarding feedback and razor-sharp handling.

Interior and Technology

The cabin is tailored to the enthusiast, with a minimalist yet refined aesthetic featuring high-quality Alcantara, leather, and carbon fiber accents. Sports seats provide ample support, and a customizable personalization program allows for unique color and material choices from Alpine’s “Atelier Sur-Mesure.” Instrumentation includes a driver-focused digital cluster, while infotainment is minimal, emphasizing the driving experience rather than distraction. Essential modern amenities are present, but the focus is clearly on lightness and driver engagement rather than luxury or convenience.

Battery and Range Considerations

Not applicable — the Alpine A110 R Ultime is a petrol-powered sports car focused on performance rather than efficiency or electric driving.

At a Glance Table

Pros and Cons Overview

The Alpine A110 R Ultime excels as an ultra-light, track-ready sports car that delivers exceptional handling, high power-to-weight ratio, and dynamic precision. Exclusivity and bespoke options enhance its appeal to collectors and driving purists. However, its specialized nature means tight practicality, minimum infotainment, and softer ride comfort. The high price tags relative to practicality limit broader accessibility, and the focused tires and suspension cater more to track use than everyday driving.

Pros and Cons Table

Overall Verdict

The 2025 Alpine A110 R Ultime is a masterful, limited-edition expression of Alpine’s lightweight sports car philosophy, delivering raw performance and handling at the highest level. It is perfect for enthusiasts seeking a rare, focused, and rewarding driving experience with a strong motorsport pedigree. Its exclusivity and technical prowess come at a premium, and it is best reserved for track days and spirited drives rather than daily commuting. A true driver’s car that pushes the envelope of lightweight agility and power.

Sources

• Evo

• Car and Driver

• Renault Group / Alpine Official

• Autocar

• Top Gear