This Wild Hot Hatch Has Angry Red Crocodiles Swimming on the Hood

Wouter Smit · 2026-07-06

Alpine recently teamed up with fellow French brand Lacoste to create a wild, one-off version of the A290 Rallye. This isn't just any hot hatch; it's a rolling piece of art that turns heads and sparks conversations. The car is covered in dozens of crocodile mascots, and the cabin is the reddest you've ever seen. It's a bold statement that blends automotive performance with high-fashion flair. ### What Makes This Collaboration So Unique? The partnership between Alpine and Lacoste brings together two iconic French brands. Alpine is known for its lightweight, high-performance sports cars, while Lacoste is famous for its classic polo shirts and the crocodile logo. This one-off A290 Rallye features that crocodile motif everywhere, from the hood to the interior. The result is a car that feels both exclusive and playful. ### Design Details You Need to See - **Exterior:** The hood has angry red crocodiles swimming across it, creating a fierce look. The rest of the body is painted in a deep red that matches the interior. - **Interior:** The cabin is the reddest you'll ever see. From the seats to the dashboard, everything is covered in red leather and fabric. It's like sitting inside a giant cherry. - **Mascots:** Dozens of Lacoste crocodile mascots are placed around the car, adding a whimsical touch. They're on the seats, the dashboard, and even the steering wheel. ### Performance and Specs Underneath all that style, the A290 Rallye is still a performance machine. It's powered by a turbocharged engine that delivers around 250 horsepower. That's enough to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about 6 seconds. The car also features a sport-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes, making it perfect for both the track and the street. ### Why This Car Matters for Enthusiasts This one-off model isn't just a marketing gimmick. It shows how car manufacturers can collaborate with fashion brands to create something truly unique. For enthusiasts, it's a reminder that cars can be both functional and expressive. The A290 Rallye Lacoste edition is a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship. ### The Price Tag Since this is a one-off, there's no official price. But if you could buy it, expect to pay well over $100,000. That's the cost of exclusivity and artistry. For most of us, it's just a dream car, but it's fun to imagine owning something so wild. ### Final Thoughts The Alpine A290 Rallye Lacoste edition is a masterpiece of design and performance. It's a hot hatch that doesn't take itself too seriously, yet it delivers on every level. Whether you're a car enthusiast or just someone who appreciates art, this car is worth talking about. It's a reminder that sometimes, the craziest ideas produce the most memorable results.