ALPINE is back, baby! Well, for Australians, it was never really here to begin with, but Renault has been kind enough to bring its resurrected sportscar brand to unchartered territory, and after driving its first 21st-century effort, the A110, we’re pleased it did.

Set to do battle with Porsche’s 718 Cayman, the Alpine A110 certainly has a tall task ahead of it, but the French’s obsession with cutting weight by limiting compromises – even key items like side airbags – seems to have paid off if our first taste is anything to go by.

So, how exactly does the A110 find itself in the same conversation as the 718 Cayman? We sampled its limited – and aptly named – Premiere Edition on Australian roads to find out. Needless to say, we were as surprised as you will be. Strap in and enjoy the ride.