Hardcore Alpine A110 Spotted Testing At Nurburgring

Alpine is expanding its A110 lineup with an even more hardcore model that appears to be based on the existing R model. A camouflaged prototype of this new A110 variant, rumored to wear the RS name, was spotted on the roads around the Nurburgring.

The unnamed model features noticeable aerodynamic updates that should increase downforce at the front and rear.

Notable changes include canards on the front bumper, a more pronounced splitter, and a distinct frunk lid with massive intakes or outlets. All of these aerodynamic enhancements combined will likely provide a substantial increase in downforce compared to the already hardcore R derivative.

The prototype's rear is equally striking, showcasing a fixed wing and a rear window cover with an integrated fin. We've seen both of these elements before on the limited-edition A110R Le Mans, which debuted earlier this year.

Alpine's generous use of what appears to be carbon fiber should contribute to a weight reduction compared to the A110 R. Less weight means increased performance in all the crucial departments, including speed, agility, responsiveness, and even fuel consumption.

We don't see Alpine designing a new combustion engine for this model, so it almost certainly uses the A110 R's turbocharged four-pot. It produces 296 horsepower, good enough for a 3.9-second sprint to 62 mph and a top speed of 177 mph. Alpine might finally unleash the full potential of this engine, however. We think getting at least 350 reliable horses out of this engine is possible without making expensive mechanical upgrades.

The numbers aren't phenomenal, but the Alpine is widely regarded as the only other sports car that can stand toe-to-toe with the Porsche 718 Cayman. Alpine might even be going after the daddy of all Caymans, the GT4 RS.

Whether this will be a full-blown RS variant or just another special edition remains a mystery. Alpine currently sells four different base models of the A110, each with unique talents. And that's not even counting the Le Mans and the ill-timed A110 R Fernando Alonso Edition.

The chances of this particular model making it to the USA are virtually zero. Alpine is set to arrive in America in 2027 via RedBird and AutoNation. By then, the A110 will be an all-electric vehicle, and it will be joined by two brand-new electric cars, one of which will almost certainly be an SUV.