Future Renault Alpine Models May Get AMG Power

Renault SA's revived Alpine unit could source engines for future models from Daimler AG’s Mercedes-AMG performance arm.

The sporty Alpine sub-brand is being relaunched late this year with a production version of the recent Vision coupe concept. The unit faces the option of either upgrading Renault-Nissan’s current engine offerings or buying high-output mills externally, Bruno Ancelin, Renault's executive vice president of product and planning, tells Auto Express. He points to Aston Martin’s decision to buy V-8 engines from AMG for its new DB11 sports car as a good example of the latter strategy.

The Renault-Nissan alliance has been partnering with Daimler on powertrains and other shared components and platforms for several years. An Alpine/AMG collaboration would expand that relationship, but likely wouldn’t start until after the Vision is launched. The concept version of that vehicle was fitted with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder Renault engine.

In addition to the Vision two-seater, Alpine is considering a larger coupe, convertible and hatchback models, Ancelin tells Auto Express. The U.K.-based enthusiast magazine suggests some of these models could be powered by the souped-up 3.0-liter V-6 that will bow this summer in the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 midsize SUV.